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Description

While the Seppalas used to be the same breed as the Siberian Husky today they are considered a separate breed differing in appearance. Seppalas are the working lines and the Siberian Husky's are the show lines. Their legs and body are longer and they are generally lighter in weight and build than the show dogs. The ears are taller then the show lines, set closer together and are very erect. The stop is less defined than the show lines. The tail is naturally held high in a sickel curve over the back when alert. Their coats are medium in length, dense with an undercoat nearly as long as their outer coat. Coat colors vary and are not considered important in the breed. Some common coat colors include pure white, buff, buff and white, black, charcoal gray, gray, brownish gray, and blue-gray, sable (reds with black-tipped guard hairs and black noses). Piebald spotting and agouti (wild type) coloration are common. Some have dark faces with white only on the feet and tips of the tail. Eyes can be blue, or brown, or any combination of the two.

Temperament

This is an active working breed who will be docile and trainable when it is provided with enough exercise. This is a high energy dog, especially when young. Seppalas are very intelligent and trainable, but they will only obey a command if they see the human is stronger minded than themselves. If the handler does not display leadership, they will not see the point in obeying. Training takes patience, consistency and an understanding of the Arctic dog character. If you are not this dogs 100% firm, confident, consistent pack leader, he will take advantage, becoming willful and mischievous. Seppalas make an excellent jogging companion, as long as it is not too hot. This breed likes to howl and gets bored easily. Does not do well if left alone for a long period of time without a great deal of exercise before hand. A lonely Seppala, or a Seppala who does not get enough mental and physical exercise can be very destructive. Remember that the Seppala is a true working sled dog in heart and soul. They are good with other pets if they are raised with them from puppyhood, but do like to hunt small game animals. Seppalas are thrifty eaters and need less food than you might expect. This breed likes to roam. Seppalas can make wonderful companions for people who are aware of what to expect from these beautiful and intelligent animals and are willing to put the time and energy into them.

Height, Weight

Health Problems

Prone to allergies, cancer and eye problems.

Living Conditions

Exercise

Life Expectancy

Grooming

The coat sheds heavily twice a year. During that time they need to be brushed and combed daily.

Origin

The Seppala Siberian Sleddog was at one time the same breed as the Siberian Husky. It was always the working lines of the breed and was never used in the show ring. As the show ring dogs evolved more for their beauty and less for sled pulling the Seppala Siberian Sleddog remained a true working dog. The bloodlines were kept separate than the show dogs. In the late 1990s, the breed was recognized by the Canadian agriculture authorities as a new breed. In 2002 the Seppala Siberian Sleddog lines spread to the USA as breeders worked on keeping the working lines separated from the show lines.

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