Husky: characteristics, varieties and cultivation

Husky fall in love at first sight. Just look into their bewitching eyes of an unusual and bright color. These pets are playful in nature. They are energetic, agile and love to run a lot. Many people dream of having such an interesting pet. However, before buying this unusual puppy, you need to thoroughly understand what the dogs of the husky breed are, what are their main characteristics and behavior. Only by learning all the nuances of keeping such animals, you can make the right decision about their acquisition.

Before proceeding to a detailed examination of all the features and characteristics of husky dogs, you should familiarize yourself with the history of their origin.

The history of this terribly popular and famous breed is confused and causes a lot of controversy. It is known for certain that Husky are the result of crossing wolves and northern dogs. Dogs with this combination of genes were characterized by excellent endurance qualities. In addition, they were not afraid of severe frosts in winter - in such an environment, these dogs felt more than comfortable. Devotion and a very beautiful coat were the hallmarks of the husky.

These wolf dogs proved to be very good helpers of the inhabitants of the Far North. They were needed in the hunt. Husky were also useful in reindeer husbandry and property protection. If we talk about the main duty of these beautiful and smart dogs, then this is the transportation of a person and his goods across the northern expanses.Over the years, energetic huskies have been happy to fulfill these important functions for humans.

Representatives of the northern nomadic tribes - the Chukchi, are recognized as the "parents" of this unique breed. It was this people who “had a hand” in the appearance of the husky, since it was the wolf dog that he used to expand the hunting grounds.

To cope with such functions, the Chukchi needed dogs that were able to easily overcome impressive distances within a not too long time. At the same time, the "working dogs" had to drag along a valuable load, laid in a large sled. It was the pets bred for these purposes that became the progenitors of the well-known Siberian husky.

Eskimos also loved dogs of this amazing breed. Husky was famous for its versatility and unpretentiousness in matters of care and maintenance. Eskimo dogs were sturdy and for a long time could eat only dried fish. Since the Eskimos did not suffer from a shortage of fish, keeping the dogs of this breed did not cause serious difficulties and troubles.

On the territory of the USSR, representatives of this bright breed were not widely distributed. At that time, huskies seemed to people too small to carry large and heavy loads. The Americans have aroused great husky interest. Only after the collapse of the USSR did these dogs again come to Russia, but from the USA.

The history of the husky is rich and interesting. These animals are representatives of one of the oldest breeds of sled dogs. Their breeding was exclusively for work. Fluffy dogs with strong muscles were supposed to seamlessly pull the harness with luggage and man in an atmosphere of harsh cold North. Over time, the standards for these pets have undergone a lot of changes - these dogs are no longer perceived and raised as "workhorses." Recently, emphasis has been placed on the beauty and domestic content of these original animals.

Let us consider in more detail the description of representatives of this breed.

• An adult female in weight can reach 15-23 kg. Males grow more “heavy” - their weight varies from 53 to 60 kg.
• Husky breed growth is considered average. At the withers, females can reach a mark of 50-56 cm, and males 53-60 cm (they are always larger).
• As for the color - it can be very different. The most common and common dogs are those whose coat color is black and white or gray and white. The second most common and popular is considered a very beautiful chocolate color with white patches. Representatives of a breed of this color attract a lot of attention because they look unusual.
• The eyes of these dogs have a characteristic almond shape. They are a little slanting. Removed medium. The husky eye iris color is one of the most striking features of these dogs. Unusually and attractively look individuals whose eye color is blue or brown. There are also dogs whose eyes have a multi-colored iris. For example, one eye may be blue and the other brown.
• Husky is characterized by the ears of a traditional triangular shape. They are located on the head high and are located close to each other. As a rule, ears have an impressive fur cover and are dense. The tips of the ears are rounded and “look” exclusively upwards. They stand on the head absolutely evenly and clearly - there should not be any inclinations.
• Husky is characterized by a neck of medium length. When the dog is standing, it is slightly arched and boldly raised. During movement, the neck extends so that the head extends slightly forward.
• The purebred husky's chest is strong. She is well pubescent up to the elbows. The ribs of these dogs are naturally swept, flat on the sides and wide.
• Husky paws are strong and soundly pubescent. As a rule, they have a neat oval structure. Paw pads are very elastic and dense. Paws of purebred representatives will always be flat.
• The tail of these dogs is distinguished by a thick and sound pubescence. When the husky is alert, his tail will be slightly raised and bent, like a sickle. In a calm state, this part will be omitted.
• With proper care, husky live on average up to 15 years. Of course, this indicator may vary depending on the conditions of the animal.
• Character features of these animals must be taken into account if you intend to live with them in the same territory. In many ways, huskies are similar to cats - they are very stubborn and love freedom. Usually they choose one person as the owners and become strongly attached to him. These dogs behave in a friendly manner towards adults and children, therefore they are not often walked by putting on a muzzle. They are distinguished by activity, they love sports entertainment. Used to lead the most mobile way of life. If you want to keep an absolutely calm and lazy dog ​​at home, who likes to sleep and lie down longer, then husky will not suit you.
• The intelligence of these animals is high. They are smart, cunning and smart. True, husky training is very difficult. This is due to the fact that these animals are distinguished by an excessively independent character. Yes, and focus on one thing is very difficult for them because of increased activity and energy.
• In the role of an ordinary guard, a husky is hardly suitable. As a watchman and guard, the current representatives of this northern breed are also not used. Husky is an exceptionally good friend, a companion dog that does not show aggression towards other people.

Husky, painted completely in black, white or brown, are extremely rare. However, this does not mean that such individuals are considered “defective”. In addition, the presence of a kind of contrasting mask on the eyes is permissible. A neat vertical strip can stretch from the forehead to the nose.

A separate paragraph should highlight the description of the coat color of these dogs. By standards, such coat colors are allowed.

• The black. Otherwise, this husky color is also called "afro". But genetically this color in these dogs does not happen. Usually there are snow-white blotches.

• White. This color of the dog usually does not have any dots, spots and other inclusions. This is the only color option in which brown and dark shades of the nose, lips and eyelids are acceptable.

• Black and white. This color is recognized as one of the most relevant and common. However, because of the color of the undercoat, dogs of this color from the side may appear to be just gray. At the same time, a discreet redhead can be seen on the paws.

• White-brown. This interesting and eye-catching color can vary from a dark brown to a red tint. Under sunlight, the coat of this color always burns out in a short time and becomes lighter.

• Sable. In this case, we mean fur of a reddish or copper shade. However, it has many differences from the usual brownish-white color. The pigmentation of the nose, lips and eyelids will be black.

• Black-out. This is another interesting husky color, in which against the background of snow-white wool, a contrasting dark spot will be present on the back.

• Sonar gray. This color is recognized as close to the original version characteristic of purebred dogs. In this case, the tip of the tail will be black, and the main color - black-red-white.

Despite the fact that husky husbands usually behave very friendly and tend to communicate, they remain very wayward and always act in their interests. These dogs behave incredibly stubbornly. Husky just needs a strong, persistent and uncompromising leader, who will be able to achieve full obedience and submission from the pet. People with a weak nature, it is better not to keep animals of this temperamental breed at home.

The main factor to consider when deciding to make a husky is their indefatigable energy and crazy activity. Of course, you can try to play the dog so that he is tired physically. But such a trick can work with anyone, but not with a husky. To tire this dog, you have to try hard. Only after that it will be possible to achieve the necessary complaisance of the pet.

If you do not get involved in raising a husky dog ​​in a timely manner and let everything go by itself, then the dog will definitely be naughty a lot to get enough of himself. Due to such bursts of energy, furniture and wallpapers in the apartment can seriously suffer, as well as floor coverings. For this reason, husky training should not be postponed until better times - this should be dealt with as soon as possible.

Husky fit seamlessly into large families. They get along well with young children. Since the Eskimos for many years trusted these animals the most precious thing - their children, the dogs got used to them and loved them very much. But one cannot ignore the fact that each individual is distinguished by its character and behavior.

Keeping huskies at home, one should not forget that wolf blood flows in her veins. At any moment, she can make herself felt, and the animal suddenly rushes off in an unknown direction, trying to catch up with any object that seems interesting to her. Often such an extraordinary and unpredictable behavior of a husky ends in the fact that the owner loses it forever.

These dogs have minimal perseverance. Husky can’t sit still in one place for a long time. It must be remembered that the ancestors of these animals are sled dogs that covered great distances. Before you start such a dog, you need to think several times about whether you can provide it with proper conditions in which it can splash out its irrepressible energy.

You can’t rush into buying a husky puppy. First you need to get acquainted with all the positive and negative qualities inherent in this famous breed.

First, get acquainted with the benefits of a husky.

• The main advantage of these dogs is their friendly disposition and sociability.
• Husky are great for children. An exception may be only individuals with certain characteristics of character.
• Husky dogs are hardy dogs. They feel great, even when there is a crackling frost outside the window.
• These dogs have amazing external data. Looking at them, the eye rejoices.
• Representatives of this northern breed have an excellent intelligence.
• These are loyal and faithful dogs that are strongly attached to their master.
• The immunity of these pets is excellent. They do not often get sick, especially if they are kept in good conditions.
• With such a pet, it will be especially interesting for active and energetic people who love sports, jogging and other similar things - this can be done in company with a furry friend.
• Husky extremely rarely show aggression.
• In relation to other animals, representatives of this breed are also friendly. They like to communicate, rarely come into conflict.
• These dogs never impose their company.
• Husky usually does not emit harsh and unpleasant odors. Dogs of this breed are very clean, which pleases many people who keep them at home.
• Complex and expensive care for these animals is not needed. Despite the many features and nuances of content, husky is unpretentious.

As you can see, there are plenty of positive qualities in these dogs. That is why they are so popular and are the dream of many people. But do not rush to buy a husky puppy until you get acquainted with its shortcomings.

• Husky cannot be left alone for long. The dog can begin to howl loudly and heartbrokenly. And he will be able to do this for a long time. Often these dogs do not just howl, but shout persistently, scaring their neighbors (this howl does not always look like a dog howl).
• Husky always leaves a lot of hair, especially when the molting period begins. When it ends, according to the owners of such dogs, they briefly lose their attractiveness and look shabby.
• Suddenly, a husky can break loose and rush off, pursuing an object / object that interests her (it can be anything - a cat, a bird or a packet thrown on the street).
• Husky can easily dig or jump over the fence, if he needs it - there are no barriers for these dogs.
• These dogs are big lovers of hunting cats, chickens and rabbits.
• If the husky is too boring, he will gradually destroy everything that is bad. These dogs often gnaw skirting boards, legs of tables and chairs and other similar things.
• Representatives of this sled breed do not tolerate heat very well. They are more comfortable when there is a cold and snowy winter outside the window.
• Husky is not the best guard. The dog will not protect either property or its own owner.
• In the conditions of an ordinary city apartment, keeping these dogs is very difficult - they will need regular walking (they will need to spend a lot of time on it).
• Such dogs are strongly discouraged from having very busy and lazy people who do not find extra time to practice with them. In addition, the owner of the husky should not be limp and weak-willed - these animals will only obey a strong leader.
• Husky is very wayward and always do what they see fit. Not every owner can overcome their character.
• Dogs of this breed are poorly trained, because they do not like to be commanded. It is very difficult for them to concentrate. But you can’t leave them without training, otherwise a cute charming puppy will grow into a big wayward dog that will bite, bite and break everything around.

These dogs have many disadvantages. Their bad habits and character flaws must be taken into account if you plan to have such a pet. Many people buy husky puppies for their beautiful eyes and luxurious hair, but over time they face many serious problems that inevitably arise if the owner does not know how to handle such an animal.

There are certain varieties of this breed. Each of the husky subspecies has distinctive features related to both appearance and color, as well as behavior and habits. Let us consider in more detail what types of husky are.

This type of husky was bred in the United States. It was obtained by crossing sled dogs from Alaska and Siberia. The appearance of these dogs, which many people are accustomed to, is the result of the work of breeders and breeders who have set themselves the goal of turning a working heavy truck into a beautiful dog adapted to life in the city.

Modern Siberian huskies are for the most part excellent companions, but with one peculiarity - they are very energetic. They always need activity, running, games.

The appearance of the Siberian husky is classic, as is the size. Their average height is 60 cm and their weight is 30 kg. These loyal friends of man are different cleanliness. They do not emit unpleasant odors, like most other dogs. This can not but rejoice many owners, keeping the home of these pets.

The coat of the Siberian Husky is rough, has a soft undercoat. During periods of molting, you must carefully comb it daily. In the rest of the time, there is often no need to resort to such procedures - once a week is enough.

Siberian huskies are great hunters. That is why their coexistence with rodents in the same territory can end disastrously for the latter. In females, usually hunting instincts are manifested much more strongly than in males. But there is no reason to worry - the furry comrade will hunt only for fun.

Siberian Husky is not the best guard, because in these dogs there is no malice and unnecessary aggression. They will not rush at strangers and may even approach a stranger.

Dogs of this variety are "workhorses" and are of the harness type. Otherwise they are called "karafuto-ken." The closest relatives of these individuals are Japanese Spitz and Akita Inu.

These animals have well developed muscles. They are powerful and fast, and their bones are very strong. Sakhalin husky have a good mind. They have a calm and peaceful disposition. Usually they behave absolutely calmly. Unfortunately, today, representatives of this breed are on the verge of extinction.

Yakut huskies are incorrectly called huskies. Initially, it was bred as a sled dog. These individuals have a strong physique, well-developed muscles. As for the appearance, it really is in many ways similar to the appearance of the northern brothers. Only the eyes of the huskies are straight, set wide. These individuals have a more solid coat, a well-developed mane. Their color is most often spotty and more diverse than other varieties.

Japanese husky is commonly called akita inu. These are long-haired animals with a characteristic large head of a triangular structure. Akita's eyes are small, and the ears are erect, like a tail twisted into a ringlet. The average weight of these furry friends is 45 kg, and their height is 70 cm.

American husky is called Eskimo husky. These dogs are very closely related to the Siberian "comrades". True, one must take into account the fact that these animals are not at all adapted to life in an ordinary city apartment. They are much more comfortable living in the private sector, where you can make a large and spacious enclosure for your pet and where he will not feel constrained. American dogs also just love to run a lot, long and fast.

It has not yet been recognized as a separate subspecies. These dogs are not very thick and short hair. There is a genetic mixed relationship with relatives, due to which the commission still cannot recognize Alaskan individuals. When breeding these animals, German shepherds, border collies, as well as magnificent and magnificent Alaskan Malamutes were involved.

On the territory of Russia in the village of Listvyanka there is a nursery, in the conditions of which a separate subspecies of the husky was bred (according to the breeders). Beautiful Baikal dogs were first seen there.

If you compare them with Kamchatka species, you can see that the structure of their body is slightly different. In addition, Baikal dogs show themselves more hardy and faster. True, the conditions of frosty latitudes are absolutely not suitable for them - they are not adapted to such an environment. As in the case described above, this breed has not yet been recognized by the international association.

Husky is also bred in Finland. Dogs belonging to the Finnish subspecies were obtained by crossing the most common Siberian husky and representatives of racing breeds.They feel great in conditions of extremely low temperatures and love to ride in teams. Riding tours with these beautiful dogs are terribly popular in Finland.

In Kamchatka there is a kennel in which they breed a separate subspecies of dogs. They are called Kamchatka and bred in order to participate in races arranged every year on dog teams. The participants of the race overcome more than a thousand kilometers in conditions of low temperatures and frosts. Kamchatka dogs are not afraid of such external factors, since they were bred specifically for the race in such conditions.

If, despite all the nuances of content and cons of representatives of this sled breed, you still want to buy a husky puppy, then you should know that you need to choose it carefully and thoughtfully. First of all, you need to consider the entire brood. In no case do not buy a dog that the breeder is trying hard to sell you, especially if you pick up a not too expensive specimen. Noticing the limited means, the seller will try to realize weaker or even sick individuals.

Watch the puppies while they frolic in the aviary. At this time, it is necessary to pay attention to some features of animal behavior.

• If you notice that the puppy is behaving too timidly, then this will not be a good sign. If several babies behave in such a way at once, then this should not reassure you. Most likely, you have puppies from the same litter. This means that after some time the animal will behave too shyly and uncertainly, which completely does not correspond to the behavior of purebred proud huskies.
• Healthy boys and girls of good quality must be friendly and trust even strangers. They should meet the guest with amusing leaps, attempts to lick a person or grab him by clothes or shoelaces. Often, this behavior of little husky husbands scares and raises suspicion: what if the baby will continue to be hyperactive and will listen a little? In the case of a husky, such a description is normal - they behave very actively, and they do not always like to obey the owner.

Puppies may seem to be overly selfish and self-confident. Yes, such factors have a place to be and will have to be fought with as the pet grows older. If you understand that you cannot control these traits of the animal’s character, then it’s better to immediately refuse to buy, so that in the future you do not have to get rid of the already grown up and ill-bred dog, causing him serious psychological trauma.

It is necessary to buy purebred husky in elite nurseries with a good reputation or with bona fide breederswho can provide all the necessary documents. It is advisable to consult with the seller or shelter specialists immediately after the purchase about feeding and caring for the baby when you bring him to your home.

It was already mentioned above that representatives of this northern breed are undemanding in matters of care. However, this does not mean that they will not have to be looked after at all. Still, certain actions will be required from the owner so that the animal remains clean and healthy. Let's look at how to care for huskies.

• Care requires the coat of these dogs. It needs to be combed out throughout the entire period of molting. Wash your dog as needed. Comb the hair periodically so that it does not get tangled up and does not stray into tangles, especially if you are holding a long-haired individual.
• Keep an eye on your dog’s teeth. Every day you need to clean them with a special paste. It is advisable to buy special bones and toys sold in pet stores for husky. With these things, animals will clean their teeth.
• Do not forget to cut the claws of the dog. It is advisable to do this at least 1 time per month. The clipped claws will make the husky safer both for the household and for himself.
• It is very important to provide care for the eyes of dogs of any age. Wipe your eyes from time to time with a wet swab to remove any discharge that has appeared. This should be done as needed. Always inspect the dog’s eyes in order to notice in time the inflammatory processes that have begun, which must be started in a timely manner. If you notice redness, green or yellow discharge from the eyes, then it is better to consult a veterinarian.
• You also need to clean the dog’s ears. This should be done as needed. Inspect them for injuries and damage, as well as infections and contamination.

Veterinarians strongly discourage bathing a husky too often. In most cases, the owners wash these dogs only in special cases. This can occur no more than once a year. These dogs do not need regular haircuts.

Puppies and adults of the husky breed must be fed properly. Only subject to this rule can we talk about the health and longevity of the pet.

Initially, it is necessary for the dog to choose food - dry or wet. Many owners choose dry food, because they do not need to be prepared beforehand - just pour food into a bowl and that's it. However, both granular and wet foods (pastes, gravy slices) should be of high quality.

If you do not want to give your pet ready-made food, then you can feed the dog with natural products instead. It should be considered what representatives of this breed can eat:

• chicken and turkey meat;
• offal;
• cartilage;
• beef meat;
• oatmeal;
• buckwheat;
• rice
• sea ​​fish;
• fat-free fresh kefir;
• egg yolks;
• cabbage;
• zucchini;
• carrot;
• pumpkin.

Husky can not be fed with such products:

• pork;
• mutton;
• sweets;
• flour products;
• smoked meats;
• fat;
• any pickles and marinades;
• fried foods;
• spicy dishes;
• milk;
• chicken protein;
• bones;
• nuts
• potato;
• grapes and raisins.

You should always remember that husky spends an incredible amount of energy during the day. For this reason, dogs of this breed always need to make up for it by consuming a sufficient amount of protein-rich food. It is very important to give your pet an extremely balanced diet. It should contain vitamins A, E, C, D, B, K and many others. In addition, elements such as:

• zinc;
• iodine;
• iron;
• copper;
• calcium.

Many people are interested in how to cope with a husky, how to wean a bite, suddenly run away and perform other wrong actions. Before you begin to train these pets, you need to consider that they will absolutely not do anything for nothing. They will always need good motivation, otherwise everything will be unsuccessful. During training, the owner must demonstrate to the dog that he is a leader, but at the same time respects him.

At six months, the dog can take a training course. As for the basic basic commands - you can start learning them before. The endless and monotonous repetition of the same commands will quickly annoy the dog. For this reason, experts advise to consolidate the knowledge acquired by the dog into practice during walks or games. Especially strong huskies can bribe the goodies received for a correctly completed task.

Husky is very quickly and simply accustomed to the toilet on the street. Before the execution of 6-8 months, the puppy can walk on a newspaper or diaper at home, without leaving their native walls. At this age, it is very difficult for kids to endure, so scolding them for a dirty floor is not recommended - this will only push away an already proud and wayward dog from yourself.

When the thoroughbred baby is vaccinated, it can be safely taken out into the street. So that the dog soon understands what exactly you want from him, you can take a newspaper with you on the road. When the baby does everything right, do not forget to praise him and give a treat.

The hardest part of the Husky is to master the team "next." Despite this, it should not be neglected. If the dog does not learn the team, then during walks he will drag the owner along with him, without reacting at all to all his protests and indignations. I must say, husky almost always need to drag something. Pulling the leash is their standard habit, laid down at the genetic level. The owner can take such characteristics of behavior under personal control. It will take a lot of time, effort and patience. It will be useful to additionally learn such commands as “Left!”, “Right!”, “Stop!”, “Shake off!”, “Back!”.

Husky training is difficult. In this matter, many owners enlist the help of experienced trainers and professional dog handlers.

Husky is a truly controversial, unusual and bright dog, not like any other existing breed. These northern riders can fall in love with themselves at first sight, and after a couple of minutes to unbalance a person with unnecessarily arrogant behavior.

Out of good owners of these animals have been observed:

• friendly disposition, sociability, they easily make contact with people and other animals;
• these dogs literally fell in love with people who are fond of different sports, because you can pair with such pets, and this is much more interesting;
• Husky’s playful disposition pleases many owners, cheers up;
• according to most breeders, they cannot admire the beauty of these animals;
• beautiful mind;
• endurance;
• love children and do no harm to them;
• Do not exude sharp "dog" odors.

Some people call the Husky a real "miracle of nature" and "the best friend." However, the owners leave not the best reviews about these dogs. Of the minuses, people emphasize:

• a large amount of hair falling out;
• just crazy energy and activity, which is very difficult to control;
• it’s hard to train a dog;
• Husky can hardly get along in apartments, because they do not have enough space there and have to spend almost all day walking, and not everyone has time for this;
• at some owners the dog steals food from the table and eats slop on the street;
• the dog often does not listen.

Husky is not a dog for everyone. Before starting such a furry comrade, it is important to weigh the pros and cons several times, because it will be very difficult to keep him (especially in the apartment).

The most interesting about the breed, see the video below.