Monday, May 12, 2008

Siberian Husky Information: Questions To Ask The Breeder

The history of the Siberian Husky is similar to that of other members of the Spitz group such as the Chow Chow and Pomeranian. This breed descended from Arctic sled dogs and was purebred in an isolated area of Siberia for hundreds of years. An Eskimo Siberian Husky breeder selected the most attractive and brightest-eyed huskies for breeding. This may be why the Siberian Husky so closely resembles the wolf, even though it is no closer related to wolves than other dog breeds. These dogs, along with the Alaskan Malamute and Samoyed, are directly descended from the Eskimo dog and have been utilized throughout history as sled dogs.

Siberian Huskies have many physical characteristics that are adapted to living in a harsh climate. They have double coats of fur that consists of a cashmere-like, dense and waterproof undercoat and a longer, coarser topcoat that provides additional insulation. Siberian Huskies also have the triangular, erect ears, curled, furry tail and distinctive markings common to the Spitz family.

Siberian Huskies have specific behavioral traits as well as physical traits. Some can be deciding points on whether or not a potential owner buys a purebred Siberian Husky. Every Siberian Husky breeder has a responsibility to warn and inform buyers of typical behavioral traits of Siberian Huskies. First, Siberian Huskies howl rather than bark, just like wolves. Their ululating howl can come as a surprise to an unsuspecting owner. Second, huskies are stubborn. They may be difficult to train and may only listen to commands when they feel like it. Third, Siberian Huskies are pack animals. They become depressed and destructive if left alone. They will also escape from a home, pen or yard and are capable of climbing up ladders and under fences. Fourth, huskies are energetic and need vigorous daily exercise. They can become ill if not exercised properly and they have a tendency to run, and to keep running, for miles if they escape the owner's home or leash.
The first question a Siberian Husky breeder needs to ask is why a potential buyer wants a Siberian Husky. This is not just a beautiful dog breed. Siberian Huskies require regular exercise, stimulation and training. If a buyer cannot provide these things, a Siberian Husky is not the appropriate dog breed for them. The second question the potential Siberian Husky breeder needs to ask is what buyer knows about the breed. Any questions about the breed should be answered before buying. The next questions can be directed at the Siberian Husky breeder. The breeder should be an expert on the breed and should be able to effectively answer all questions the buyer has about the history of the breed, common medical and behavioral traits of the breed, how to train, discipline, and care for the breed, and the pedigree associated with the particular Siberian Husky they are selling. Asking the right questions of the Siberian Husky breeder and making sure the breeder also asks questions about the buyer's home and knowledge of Siberian Huskies is the way to ensure parties are a good match and that the Siberian Husky will be placed in a loving, appropriate, permanent home.

Siberian Husky breeders should educate potential owners about the positive and negative traits of this beautiful breed. This article provides general Siberian Husky information and information about finding a good Siberian Husky breeder.

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