Siberian Husky FAQ:
Courtesy of Jalerran
Siberian Huskies
1. Can I play frisbee in
the park with my Siberian Husky?
Definitely NOT!
Wandering Star - This breed should never be trusted off-lead. They will run and
they won't come back when you call them. Don't be fooled into thinking that you
can train them to stay in your yard. The many people who have tried and no
longer have their dogs can attest to the risk associated with this impossible
task.
2. I can't take my Siberian
for walks, so how can I ensure he gets exercise?
Houdini Lives - Siberians are escape artists. Siberians need a SECURELY fenced
in yard if you want to let them off a leash.
Define SECURELY...
Over - They can jump or climb most fenced-in areas. Six feet is the recommended
height. If your dog is a climber, you may need a roof for your 'kennel'.
Under - They will also very easily dig out underneath the fence, so it is
recommended that if the fence is not placed upon concrete then something should
be buried along the perimeter of the fence in order to properly contain them.
Through - Leaving them in a yard or kennel unattended for great lengths is not
appropriate for this breed as they are highly intelligent and they WILL find a
way out. If the fence is made of a weak gauge of chain link that isn't securely
attached, they can push the fence up or chew through it. This can also occur
with wood.
No other alternatives - Because they are sled pullers, tying your Siberian out
is not appropriate as not only will they escape, other neighborhood dogs then
have open access to him/her. They are social animals and will want to be with
you.
Underground or 'invisible' fences are also not effective for this breed. They
learn very quickly that with a good running start, they can get past the range
of the fence. Additionally, their thick fur interferes with the effectiveness of
the collar.
3. Is it true that Siberians dig holes and shed?
Yes.
Green Thumb - They instinctively dig and will leave large holes, even trenches,
throughout your yard.
Kirby vs. Hoover - Do you own a good vacuum? Twice a year, Siberians do what is
referred to as "blowing coat" where they lose their bottom layer of
fur, or undercoat. It is a mess! It generally takes at least a week, sometimes
more, for all of the fur to leave the coat. You could brush the dog from sun-up
until sun-down and the fur would still be coming out. This is not an
exaggeration. When a Siberian is not 'blowing coat', the amount of shedding is
minimal to moderate, depending on the climate.
4. Are Siberians Hyperactive?
Yes and No. Each dog is an individual, but as a general rule, they do have lots
of energy.
High Voltage - This is a high energy breed, especially for the first two years
of life. They are not usually suited for people who won't provide any exercise
opportunities for the dog or leave them in a crate for long periods of time.
Crate training is recommended both for the safety of your home, but also for the
safety of the puppy; however, if your work schedule has you away from the house
for much more than 8 hours a day, you will come home to a very anxious puppy!
5. Will my Siberian listen to me? Yes, but it is usually on
their terms!
Who's the Boss? - Because the Siberian is a pack animal, they will establish a
hierarchy, or 'pecking order' for dominance. Puppy kindergarten classes and
general obedience classes are highly recommended for proper socialization and
training. Consistency with training is extremely important or a Siberian will
'walk all over you'. Siberians should be outgoing and friendly. Proper
socialization and training should help to ensure that your puppy or dog learns
manners. People who have owned a Siberian are typically familiar with the
saying, "Being Owned By A Siberian".
6. Will my Siberian get along with other dogs or my cat?
Snack Time - This breed has a high level predatory instinct and they will hunt
cats, birds, and other smaller animals. Sometimes, when a Siberian is raised
with a cat, owners have had success with this integration; however, in most
cases when an older Siberian is introduced to a home with a cat, the Siberian
cannot be trusted.
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Every dog is different, so it is difficult to generalize concerning their
adaptability with other dogs. Their ability to get along with other dogs, as
with any breed of dog, also stems back to their level of dominance and 'status'
within the hierarchy. |
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7. Are Siberians good with children?
Yes, Siberians are good with children; however, as with any breed, they must be
taught to respect children and view them as being 'above' themselves in their
hierarchy or pecking order.
8. Do Siberians make good watch dogs?
No, Siberians are social and outgoing. They do not bark much, although
they will howl.
9. Do Siberians eat a lot?
Siberians are generally very easy-keepers and do not require much food.
They were bred for sprint-racing and traveling long distances as working dogs
using little food.
