Tuesday 14 August 2012

Sled Dogs.

The Siberian Husky is a laid back, high energy dog that originated off the eastern Siberian peninsula. They were used for centuries by the Chukchi Tribe for herding reindeer, pulling sleds and as watch dogs. They are hardy dogs so were ideal to work in those harsh, cool climates. They are strong dogs so were able to work for hours on end and integrate into small packs. They were brought to Alaska by fur traders in Malamute for races due to their great speed. In 1908 they were used in the first All Alaskan Sweepstakes, a competition that had mushers take their dogs on a 408 mile long sled race.
They gained even more popularity in 1925 when they were used in Alaska for bringing in much needed medicine when the diphtheria epidemic hit. They were also used during World War II in the Army’s Arctic Search and Rescue Unit.
Today they make great family pets and generally get along with everyone and everything. They are loving, gentle and happy go lucky. They are very docile, social and relaxed so don’t actually make that good of a watch dog, being very friendly with strangers. They are great with children and bark very little, preferring to howl. They are an extremely high energy dog, very intelligent and easily trainable, if done correctly. They will only respond to proper training if the owner always asserts dominance and shows they are stronger minded. Allowing them to believe they are stronger, will result in a dominating, misbehaving dog Training with Huskies takes patience, consistency and a good understanding on their character. If you can’t be 100% firm, confident and the pack leader they will take advantage of you.
Being a high energy dog, the Husky requires a lot of exercise. This will help prevent boredom and keep their mind stimulated. Being intelligent, they get bored extremely easily; this is when their mischievous behavior starts. Remembering though, due to being bred for colder climates, exercise in warmer weather needs to limited to the cooler parts of the day. They will also howl when bored and do not do well being left alone for long periods of time. Always keep in mind they are working dogs in heart and soul, without enough mental and physical exercise they will cause some trouble. Their thick coat sheds heavily twice a year and needs to be brushed daily, especially during shedding times.
Not only are Huskies great with people, but if raised correctly from a young age are great with other pets. They make a great companion for anyone who has the time energy to put into them; in return you receive a great friend for life.
The stunning Axle, such a ladies man!

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