Are Siberian Huskies Dangerous Dogs?

Coming on the scene in 1908 in the United States for the All Alaska Sweepstakes Dog Sled Race, the Siberian husky has a genetic fingerprint that is closer to the wolf than any other dog, according to the Humane Society of the United States. Since the Siberian husky was bred to be a working dog, and not purely a companion dog, they can be more aloof than other dogs. To call them dangerous would be a mistake, since it is impossible to generalize about an entire breed of dogs.

  1. Siberian Husky Description

    • Siberian huskies are a challenging breed for companions because they tend to run away when they get the chance.

      According to the American Kennel Club, the Siberian husky is a member of the working dog group. They range in size from around 20 to 23 inches tall at the whither (shoulder) and weigh between 35 and 60 pounds. They have a double coat, and can come in any color from solid black to pure white, though the iconic black and white is the most popular. Their triangle-shaped ears are close fitting and sit high on the head. Their eyes are full of expression and can be brown, blue or one of each.

    Siberian Husky Temperament

    • The AKC allows Siberians to have brown eyes, blue eyes or one of each.

      The temperament of the Siberian husky is "friendly and gentle," according to the AKC website. This breed does not display the traits of a guard dog and is not a suitable dog for training in police or protection work. Siberians are not usually aggressive with other dogs and tolerate strangers, both human and canine, well. The Siberian is intelligent and has a quiet "reserve and dignity" as it matures. The Siberian is eager to learn and to please, making it a suitable companion dog for families.

    A Word to the Wise

    • Siberian huskies are friendly, outgoing and companionable dogs.

      Any dog can be dangerous, just as any dog can be friendly, outgoing and affectionate. Each dog possesses its own personality, and brings its experiences, upbringing, manners and attitudes to bear. The most docile and domesticated dog can turn dangerous if mistreated, neglected, hungry, injured or ill. Those who generalize about dogs being either safe or dangerous, do so at their own peril. Just like humans, there are dogs that act inappropriately and are ill tempered at times.

    Siberian Huskies in Rescue

    • Siberian huskies can be pure white, though the traditional black and white is the most recognizable.

      After the movie "Snow Dogs" was released, the popularity of Siberian huskies soared and animal shelters across the country began to see their numbers rise. Siberian huskies are not for everyone. Their coats are thick and in constant need of brushing. They tend to be restless. These dogs are not couch potatoes -- they were bred to trek many miles in cold weather. A Siberian husky that is expected to sit in a backyard in locations where the climate is hot, such as Florida, is not a happy hound. Siberian's are known among rescue workers to be "escape artists," because they will run away if given half a chance, and end up in shelters or breed rescue organizations.

    A Word About Dangerous Dogs

    • The Iditarod is a controversial event that has claimed the lives of over 140 dogs, according to the Sled Dog Action Coalition.

      Dangerous dogs are those dogs that have not been well socialized. Dogs that are injured, ill or abused will lash out and bite, if provoked. When you adopt a dog from a rescue organization, you should try to get as much information about the dog's background as possible. A good, reputable trainer will be able to read the dog's body language and let you know if it is safe to bring around children. Small children should always be supervised so they don't hurt a dog that may bite out of self-preservation. To adopt a Siberian husky, visit a breed rescue organization or find one online source, such as Petfinder.