| Category | Large Dog Breeds |
The Siberian Husky loves life. Happy and affectionate, he's a working dog but not a guard dog. His dense double coat makes him well-suited for cold climates, where he can't get enough of frolicking in the snow.
The Siberian Husky is not a one-person dog. Nor is he a guard dog. He might let you know someone is around, but he has no concept of protecting you. The Siberian is a friendly and gentle dog who is not overly suspicious of strangers or aggressive toward other dogs. Among the qualities that make him a wonderful companion are his intelligence, eagerness, and sense of humor. This is a dog that will never let you take life too seriously.
If you plan to live with a Siberian, it's a good idea to reorder the way you think about events. For instance, though you may think your Siberian is indulging in destructive behavior, he is simply acting on centuries of instinct. He doesn't dig to be annoying, he digs for shelter and a place to hide and bury things. Or he might be going after a critter. In the tundra, that's how you find a meal. If you are determined to have both a Siberian and nice landscaping, be sure to train him right from the start that he has one place in the yard to dig; otherwise, it's possible you could look outside one day and see a lunar landscape.
The Siberian doesn't need a lot of space to live in, but he does need adequate exercise. He will enjoy having a place where he can run safely, and (health permitting) he's a great companion for anyone who likes to take long walks, runs, or hikes. You can also harness his natural abilities and teach him to pull a sled, wagon, or cart. In a Siberian's ideal world, you will learn to snowshoe and skijor and let him shoot through the snow while pulling a sled. However, it's always a good idea to check with your vet before starting any new exercise program with your dog.
Training? Well, some Siberians learn to perform well in such activities as obedience. Others pop out of the ring to share someone's popcorn. The phrase "obedient Siberian Husky" is something of an oxymoron. Taking a laissez-faire and easily amused attitude makes training a Siberian much more enjoyable.
Curiosity combined with a love of running and exploring is a Siberian's besetting sin. The original Houdini Hound, he can work a small hole until he's out. And when he runs free, he can run far. If he stays outside in a kennel while you're at work, inspect it regularly for possible escape points.
He's not a big barker. Instead, the Siberian makes his own music. He will whine or moan, and when he feels like it, he will hold his head high and release his Siberian howl. There's no other sound like it.
As a long-time nomad, he adapts easily to new situations. He won't have any problems when you move to a new house other than figuring out where he can escape from it. And to him, that's not a problem, but a complex intellectual task to be achieved.