Characteristics of Husky Dogs

The Siberian husky was first brought to Alaska from Siberia in 1909. This elegant and powerful dog was originally used in the northern regions to pull sleds. Wolflike in appearance, the husky requires plenty of exercise and thrives in colder climates. These dogs make good pets, providing their owners are assertive leaders and able to give the dog an active lifestyle.

  1. Weight and Build

    • Huskies are considered medium-sized dogs. Male huskies can reach 24 inches in height and weigh between 45 to 60 lbs., while female huskies are a bit smaller; reaching a maximum of 22 inches in height and usually weighing no more than 50 lbs. As befits their working dog origins, the husky is powerful in build, with athletic qualities.

    Fur and Features

    • Huskies come in a wide array of striking color schemes. The color of the coat can be black, tan, grey, copper, or white. Eyes can be brown, amber, blue or any combination -- one blue and one brown eye for example. Huskies have pointy, triangular ears set high up on the head. Their bushy tails flip over their backs in a curve. They have snowshoe-like paws that equip them for covering icy terrain, since they have hair between the paw pads and toes that serves both to keep them warm and help their feet grip the ice.

    Temperament

    • While the husky is a naturally friendly dog, its important for its owner to establish herself as the pack leader, or the husky will assume that role. The dog is highly intelligent, and unless properly trained can use this intelligence willfully and to create mischief. Huskies tend to get along well with other dogs because of their pack instinct, but be careful with a husky around cats, since the dog's instinct to attack prey may lead to the cat's destruction.

    Huskies as Pets

    • Huskies have a lot of energy and like to play. Excessive barking is generally not a problem for the husky. Keep the husky on a leash -- their strong wills are likely to lead them tearing off on new adventures. But in general, huskies are loyal pets who are affectionate with their families and a pleasure to have around.