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Siberian Huskies are not the breed for everyone, we strongly recommend if you are looking to purchase a Siberian Husky as a pet or show (if you are new to showing) to research this breed thoroughly.
We also suggest that you research breeders thoroughly. We do not support pet shop sales of Siberian Huskies, puppy millers or those who breed more frequently than ‘own’ demand requires.
When seeking a new puppy, be vigilant when speaking to breeders. Ask why these breeders are breeding and how many litters they are having in a year, have had in previous years. What is their experience with the breed, how many years have they been in the breed, what do they do with their dogs ie. show, race, obedience, endurance?
Request copies of hip and eye results. Meet the parents, meet offspring, get references of other puppy owners, and ensure the temperament of the dog is what the standard demands and puppies are well socialised. If you are not comfortable with the answers of one breeder, seek another who you are comfortable with.
Your breeder should become your mentor and be available to you throughout the lifespan of your dog.
Siberian Huskies are one of the most beautiful breed of dog with their fascinating eye and coat colors, and wolf-like appearance. However, think very carefully before you purchase that cute black and white blue eyed puppy.
   
The Siberian Husky is a working dog, bred for hundreds of years to work tirelessly as a sled dog in extreme temperatures. As a graceful and athletic dog that was originally bred for endurance, Siberian Huskies require exercise to keep them happy and content.
   
Left to their own devices in a backyard Siberians can become very destructive. These dogs will channel their energy into rearranging your pot plants, digging a few trenches, stripping a few trees, not to mention pulling your favourite outfit from the clothes line! This is destruction ‘Siberian Style!’ If you take pride in your garden, definitely consider another breed.
   
Siberians are independent, stubborn and free spirited dogs that just love to run. If given their freedom, they will run (and keep running), flat out away from you. That is why this breed should never be let off lead unless it is in a secure enclosure. There are many wonderful ways you can exercise your Siberian on lead and under control.
Obedience training is recommended for this breed. The Siberian, like any other breed of dog only recognizes the rule of hierarchy. You must become the pack leader, as your dog will look to you for leadership and discipline. There are many excellent obedience schools in all areas, and you will certainly learn as much as your dog through regular attendance.
   
Siberians can be escape artists, so a secure and very high fence is required. Make sure the fence is also dug down below the ground, as these dogs love to dig their way out as well.
Siberian Huskies are a very social, pack-oriented breed. This is a breed that always does well when there is another dog for company. They should also not be left alone for extended periods of time.
Siberian Huskies have a strong prey drive, and generally do not get on well with cats and other small furry animals (possums for example) and birds. Please be aware of this if you are considering buying this breed.
Siberians shed once or twice a year, and when this breed ‘blows’ it’s coat, be prepared – it will be floating around in the very air that you breathe, and you will resort to buying furniture and clothes ‘that doesn’t show the dog hair.’ On the plus side, although Siberians shed profusely, they don’t have that doggy odor and are very clean animals.
   
Siberians are not guard dogs. Some Siberians may signal a visitor’s arrival with a warning bark or ‘woo woo’. They will then invite them into the house whether they are friend or foe.
The Siberian’s athletic and graceful build is designed to enable them to run and play all day. And because they are so intelligent and adaptable Siberians are one of the most versatile breeds of all – you can show them, run them in harness, do obedience, agility, and go for long hikes.
   
Remember these dogs have a very unique and wonderful way of seeing the world through ‘their’ eyes. Respect them and love them just the way they are! Just ensure you are the right owner for the Siberian Husky as they are with you up to 15 years.
   
Health problems in the Siberian Husky
Although the Siberian Husky is one of the most natural and healthy breed of dog, they can still be prone to a number of hereditary and congenital diseases. Responsible breeders will ensure that their breeding stock is screened for possible health problems. The two most prominent areas that breeders are concerned about in this breed are eye and hip problems. Please ensure when you are buying a Siberian puppy that both the parents hold current (less than 12 months old) eye certificates, and are hip tested and scored by veterinary specialists in their fields. Also check that the puppy is outgoing and playful – good temperament in the Siberian Husky is of utmost importance.
Again, I cannot stress enough for you to research the breed and in particular the breeder and the breeders breeding practices if you are planning on adding a Siberian to your family.
With thanks to Anna Mikosa of Saavik Siberian Huskies, WA for allowing us to use excepts from her website in regards to the breed and its characteristics.
Thanks to Ken & Louise Steinman (Salazar Siberians) for their 3 dog Team Photo and Christina Chalkiotis (Chalariz Siberian Huskies) for the agility photo of Maverick.
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