Husky's Particular Qualities: Myths And Reality

You may have heard the Siberian Husky is a working dog breed used for hard and exhaustive job in severe North conditions. You may also have heard that Huskies are good-natured and resilient. What about having them as a pet? What should you expect of this dog when it lives in an apartment?

Can Husky protect its owner? The Husky is genetically close to the wolf. Many people think wolves to be fierce animals ready to attack anyone, and they therefore tend to attribute these qualities to Husky dogs as well. This is not quite correct. First of all, the wolf and northern dogs are completely unaggressive. They bite only for self-defence when there is no way to escape. Bloodshed is not common; it can only happen in fights for the status. Therefore, don't expect a Siberian Husky to protect its owner as fiercely as some other guard dog breeds would do.

Is their temperament as tough as the severe North conditions? It's better to say Siberian Huskies are independent and somewhat stubborn. Throughout their history, Northern dogs were always kept free. They lived in packs and usually hunted for food themselves. In a harness, the man drove the leader dog, and the leader dog drove the rest of the dogs. The leader dog, however, was entitled to make its own decision about the path. For example, the man might not notice a crack on the ice, which could result in death of all. The dogs could sense things like that much better. This is where the Husky's independence and stubbornness comes from, especially in male dogs.

Huskies will always look for independence; they will be led by their own opinion, which doesn't always agree with what the owner wants. This is why some people think Huskies can't be trained. It's not correct to claim so. If you use positive reinforcement, and if the dog recognizes you as a pack leader, Huskies show exceptional intellect and remarkable training abilities. In order to find the best approach to your dog, it's better to consult professional breeders, dog behaviourists, and experienced Husky owners.

Is it possible to keep Husky in a city flat? Yes, of course! Huskies can get used to any living conditions, whether it's an open-air enclosure or a city flat. The only thing they can never adapt to is... a chain. The Husky must never be chained up. It is not a guard dog, and it will become extremely unhappy sitting at the same place day by day.

Huskies are working dogs, so they need a lot of physical exercise regardless of where they live. Dogs locked in a flat with no exercise can easily develop behaviour problems. If you like cycling, sledge, skis, the Husky can become a perfect companion. The skill of pulling is in their blood. Pleasure of skiing will be mutual, doubtlessly.

What other interesting facts about Huskies are there? The Husky loves to be in a centre of attention. They are very clean dogs. Huskies love singing (howling), especially in duet with their owner. In daily life, however, they are remarkable for being silent as they scarcely bark.

Husky's Particular Qualities: Myths And Reality

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