How to Identify a Siberian Husky

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One of the most popular dog breeds, [1] the Siberian Husky is known for being a sled dog. It can easily be confused with an Alaskan Malamute, another dog sometimes used to pull sleds, if you don't know the differences ; however, the Siberian Husky does have some key traits. This wikiHow will help you understand whether a dog is a Siberian Husky.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Inspecting the Body Structure

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  1. Siberian Huskies are medium-sized members of the working group. [2] Males are 21–23.5 inches (53–60 cm) tall and weigh 45–60 pounds (20–27 kg), while females are 20–22 inches (51–56 cm) tall and weigh 35–50 pounds (16–23 kg). [3]

    Did you know? Because Siberian Huskies are noticeably much smaller and lighter than Alaskan Malamutes, breeders and fanciers of the breed refer to it as the "Siberian" rather than the "Husky" because the latter implies a larger, brawnier dog than that described in the breed standard of the Siberian Husky. [4]

  2. Siberians have thick ears that are triangular. They are medium in size, set high, strongly erect, and slightly rounded at the tips. [5]
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  3. The eyes of a Siberian Husky are almond-shaped and moderately spaced. They may be blue or brown, or a dog may have one of each color. [6]
  4. Siberian Huskies don't have curled tails; however, their tails may stand sickle when the dog is at attention. [7] The tail usually hangs down from the back otherwise. It is fox-brush-shaped and well-furred, the fur medium in length. [8]
  5. A Siberian's body is well-furred and moderately compact. They have firm muscles, a straight back, and a smooth, seemingly effortless gait. [9]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Looking at the Coat

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  1. Siberian Huskies have double coats of medium length, giving the dog a well-furred appearance. The undercoat is dense and soft, though it may be hidden during shedding season. [10] The outer coat is straight and somewhat smooth lying. [11]
  2. A Siberian Husky may be any color, from black to solid white. [12] Other colors seen include grey, brown, and red.
  3. Many Siberians have white markings. These can be found on the tail, stomach, chest, and legs. It is common to see a variety of markings on the head, as well. [13]
  4. "Agouti" is a special term used to describe a Siberian Husky with a coat of "alternating bands of light and dark" along the fur of the coat. [14] Not all Siberians are seen with this coat resembling wolf-coloring, but it may appear.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Checking Temperament

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  1. Every dog has its own energy level, regardless of breed. However, Siberian Huskies tend to be more energetic than others. As sled dogs, it is natural for them to need lots of exercise to release their energy. [15]
    EXPERT TIP

    Colleen Demling-Riley, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CDBC

    Canine Behavior Consultant
    Colleen Demling-Riley (CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CDBC) is a Canine Behavior Consultant and the Founder of Pawtopia Dog Training. With more than 20 years of experience, she specializes in creating and customizing dog management programs for dog owners. She is a Certified Pet Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed, Certified Behavior Consultant Canine-Knowledge Assessed, Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, and American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. Colleen is a member of the International Association of Canine Professionals and has been a featured expert in national media including the New York Times, Woman’s Day, Readers Digest, Cosmopolitan, and Yahoo.com.
    Colleen Demling-Riley, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CDBC
    Canine Behavior Consultant

    Huskies have high energy levels that set them apart from similar breeds like Malamutes. Huskies require plenty of exercise to release their energy. If they don't have outlets to release their energy, Huskies will often attempt escape by trying to open gates or digging under fences.

  2. Siberians are intelligent but won't necessarily be quick to follow commands. They are clever and good at solving problems, so training may take some extra effort. [16]
  3. Siberian Huskies are pack dogs. They enjoy being around people and other dogs, if they have been properly socialized. [17]
  4. Siberians enjoy the company of people and other canines, but when it comes to other small animals, Siberians can demonstrate a high prey drive. [18] It is important to train a Siberian Husky to get along with these other animals.
  5. Siberian Huskies are generally very friendly. They can make good family pets if they are socialized and get enough of an energy release. [19]
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  • Question
    Are purebred dogs better than mixed breed dogs?
    Linnie
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    Whether purebred or mixed breed dogs are better is a matter of opinion. Purebred dogs are prone to more health problems because of the passing on of similar genes, but they are also bred for temperament. Mixed breeds are at a lower risk for health concerns but are not bred for temperament, so it can be hard to know how one will behave, especially if the parents' breeds are unknown. You can decide for yourself whether you prefer purebred or mixed breed dogs.
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  • Question
    How long do Siberian huskies live?
    Linnie
    Top Answerer
    Siberian huskies have a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. They are a relatively healthy breed, so health concerns are not as prevalent, allowing them to live long lives.
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  • Question
    Do Siberian huskies, poodles, and golden retrievers get along?
    Linnie
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    Siberian huskies and golden retrievers typically get along well with other dogs, though poodles prefer the company of people over other dogs. However, if first introduced to the other dogs at an early age, the three could surely get along very well.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/siberian-husky/
      2. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/siberian-husky/
      3. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/siberian-husky/
      4. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/siberian-husky/
      5. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/SiberianHusky.pdf
      6. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/SiberianHusky.pdf
      7. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/SiberianHusky.pdf
      8. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/SiberianHusky.pdf
      9. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/SiberianHusky.pdf
      1. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/SiberianHusky.pdf
      2. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/SiberianHusky.pdf
      3. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/SiberianHusky.pdf
      4. ↑ http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/SiberianHusky.pdf
      5. ↑ https://www.akc.org/about/glossary/
      6. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/siberian-husky-temperament/
      7. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/siberian-husky-temperament/
      8. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/siberian-husky-temperament/
      9. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/siberian-husky-temperament/
      10. ↑ https://www.dogtemperament.com/siberian-husky-temperament/

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