Huskies: characteristics, varieties and cultivation

In huskies fall in love at first sight. Enough to look into their charming eyes of an unusual and bright color. These pets have a playful disposition. They are energetic, mobile and love to run a lot. Many people dream of having such an interesting pet. However, before you buy this unusual puppy, you need to thoroughly understand what the Husky dogs are, what their main characteristics and behavioral characteristics are. Only having learned all the nuances of keeping such animals, you can make the right decision about their acquisition.

Before proceeding to a detailed review of all the features and characteristics of the dog breed Husky, you should be familiar with the history of their origin.

The history of this terribly popular and famous breed is muddled and causes a lot of controversy. It is known that Huskies 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 the winter - in such an environment, these dogs felt more than comfortable. Devotion and very beautiful wool were the hallmarks of the husky.

These wolf dogs proved to be very good helpers of the inhabitants of the Far North. They were necessary in the hunt. Huskies were useful in reindeer herding, property protection. If we talk about the main responsibility of these beautiful and intelligent dogs - then it is the transportation of a person and his goods across the northern expanses. For many years, energetic Huskies gladly performed these important human functions.

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

To cope with such functions, the Chukchi needed dogs that could easily overcome impressive distances for not too much time. At the same time, the “working dogs” had to carry a valuable load, which was packed in large sledges. It was bred for this purpose, pets and became the progenitors of the well-known Siberian Husky.

The Eskimos also loved the dogs of this amazing breed. Huskies were famous for their versatility and unpretentiousness in matters of care and maintenance. The dogs of the Eskimos differed in their stamina and for a long time could eat only dried fish. Since the Eskimos did not suffer from a shortage of fish, the maintenance of dogs of the described breed did not cause serious difficulties and troubles.

On the territory of the USSR, representatives of this bright breed have not received much distribution. At that time, the Huskies seemed to people too small to carry large and heavy loads. Huskies aroused great interest among Americans. Only after the collapse of the USSR were these dogs again in Russia, but already 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 engaged exclusively for work. Fluffy dogs with sturdy musculature had to pull the harness with luggage and a man in an atmosphere of the harsh, cold North without any problems. 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 home content of these original animals.

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

• Adult bitch in weight can reach the mark of 15-23 kg. Males also grow more "heavy" - their weight varies from 53 to 60 kg.
• Growth among representatives of the Husky breed is considered average. In withers, bitches can reach 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 frequently encountered dogs are the coat color of which is black and white or gray and white. The second most common and popular is considered a very beautiful chocolate color with white areas. Representatives of the breed of this color attract a lot of attention to themselves, because they look unusual.
• The eyes of these dogs have a characteristic almond shape. They are slightly slanted. Removed medium. The color of the iris of the husky eyes is one of the most striking features of these dogs. Individuals whose eye color is blue or brown look unusual and attractive. There are also such dogs, whose eyes have a multi-colored iris. For example, one eye may be blue, and the second brown.
• Huskies are characterized by the ears of a traditional triangular shape. They are high on the head and close to each other. As a rule, the 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 smoothly and clearly - there should not be any inclinations.
• The 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 is stretched so that the head is slightly protruding.
• The bosom of a thoroughbred husky differs in strength. It is well trimmed down to the elbows. The ribs of these dogs are naturally arrow-shaped, flat on the sides and wide.
• Husky paws are strong and solidly pubescent. As a rule, they have a neat oval structure. Paw pads are very elastic and dense. Paws in purebred representatives will always be smooth.
• Thick and good-quality pubescence differs the tail of these dogs. When a husky is alert, his tail will be slightly raised and bent, like a sickle. In a quiet state, this part will be omitted.
• Provided proper care Huskies live on average up to 15 years. Of course, this indicator may vary depending on the conditions of the animal.
• The characteristics of the nature of these animals must be taken into account if you are going to live with them on the same territory. In many ways, husky are similar to cats - they are very stubborn and love freedom. Usually they choose the owners of one person and strongly attached to him. These dogs are friendly to adults and children, so they are not often walked, putting on a muzzle. They are very active, very fond of sports entertainment. Accustomed to lead the most mobile way of life. If you want to keep the house absolutely calm and lazy dog, who loves to sleep and lie down a little longer, then the Husky will not suit you.
• The intelligence of these animals is high. They are clever, cunning and clever. True, the Husky is difficult to train. This is due to the fact that these animals differ in their excessively independent character. Yes, and focus on one thing they find it very difficult because of the increased activity and vitality.
• In the role of the usual guard Huskies hardly suitable.As a watchman and guard, the current representatives of this northern breed are also not used. A husky is an exceptionally good friend, a companion dog that does not show aggression towards other people.

Huskies, painted entirely 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 contrast mask is acceptable. From the forehead to the nose can stretch neat vertical striped.

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

• 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 dog color usually does not have any points, specks or 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 frequent. However, due to the color of the undercoat of a dog of this color from the side may seem just gray. At the same time, a low-key redhead can be seen on the paws.

• White brown. This interesting and eye-catching color can vary from dark brown to ginger. Under the sun the wool of this color always fade and become lighter in a short time.

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

• Black out This is another interesting color husky, in which against the snow-white fur on the back there will be a contrasting dark speck.

• Zonarno 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 and white.

Despite the fact that the Huskies usually behave very friendly and tend to communicate themselves, they remain very capricious and always act in their own interests. These dogs behave incredibly stubbornly. Huskies just need a strong, persistent and uncompromising leader who will be able to get the pet to complete obedience and obedience. People who have a weak character, animals of this temperamental breed is better not to keep at home.

The main factor that must be considered when deciding to start a Husky is their irrepressible energy and crazy activity. Of course, you can try to play the dog so that he gets tired physically. But such a trick can work with anyone, but not with huskies. To tire this dog, you have to try hard. Only after that it will be possible to achieve the desired flexibility of the pet.

If you do not promptly raise the Huskies and let everything go to chance, then the dog will surely be naughty enough to hang all over. Because of such bursts of energy, furniture and wallpaper in the apartment can be seriously affected, as well as floor coverings. For this reason, husky training should not be postponed until better times - this should be done as soon as possible.

Huskies seamlessly fit into large families. They get along well with small children. Since the Eskimos for many years trusted these animals the most expensive - their children, dogs got used to them and very much fell in love. But we can not ignore the fact that Each individual is distinguished by its character and behavior.

Holding houses husky, we must not forget that wolf blood runs in her veins. At any moment it can make itself 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 Husky behavior ends with the owner losing him forever.

These dogs have minimal perseverance. Husky can not sit quietly in one place for a long time. It must be remembered that the ancestors of these animals are riding dogs that traveled enormous distances. Before you start such a dog, you need to think a few times over whether you can provide it with the proper conditions in which it can spill its irrepressible energy.

You can not rush to buy a husky puppy. First you need to get acquainted with all the positive and negative qualities characteristic of this famous breed.

First, get acquainted with the benefits of Huskies.

• The main advantage of these dogs is their friendly disposition and sociability.
• Huskies are great for children. The exception can only be individuals with certain characteristics of character.
• Huskies are hardy dogs. They feel great, even when there is a bitter cold outside.
• These dogs have awesome appearance. Looking at them, rejoices the eye.
• Representatives of this northern breed have well-developed intellect.
• These are loyal and faithful dogs that are strongly attached to their master.
• The immunity of these pets is wonderful. They do not often get sick, especially if you keep them in good conditions.
• With such a pet it will be especially interesting to be active and energetic people who love sports, jogging and other such things - you can do this in company with a fluffy comrade.
• Huskies rarely show aggression.
• In relation to other animals, representatives of this breed are also friendly. They like to communicate, rarely come into conflicts.
• These dogs never impose their company.
• Usually from the husky does not emit a sharp and unpleasant odors. Dogs of this breed are very clean, that pleases many people holding them at home.
• Difficult and expensive care for these animals is not needed. Despite the many features and nuances of the content, husky unpretentious.

As you can see, the positive qualities of these dogs abound. 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 become familiar with its shortcomings.

• For a long time husky alone can not be left. The dog can start very loud and heart-rending howl. And he can do it for a long time. Often, these dogs do not just howl, but shout insistently, scaring their neighbors (this howl does not always look like a dog).
• There is always a lot of wool left from a husky, especially when the molting period comes. When it ends, according to the owners of such dogs, they lose their attractiveness for a while and look bare.
• Suddenly, a husky can take off and rush off, pursuing her subject / object (it could be anything - a cat, a bird or a bag thrown on the street).
• Huskies will easily make a tunnel or jump over the fence, if he needs it - there are no obstacles for these dogs.
• These dogs are great lovers of hunting cats, chickens and rabbits.
• If a husky is too boring, he will gradually destroy everything that lies bad. These dogs often gnaw down baseboards, legs of tables and chairs and other such things.
• Representatives of this riding 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 the property or its owner.
• Under the conditions of an ordinary city apartment, it is very difficult to keep these dogs - they will need regular walking (it will take a lot of time to spend on it).
• Such dogs are strongly discouraged to get heavily occupied and lazy people who do not find too much time to practice with them. In addition, the owner of the Husky should not be weak-willed and weak-character - these animals will obey only a strong leader.
• Huskies are very capricious and always act as they see fit. Overcome their character under the force of not every owner.
• Dogs of this breed are poorly trained, because they do not like being 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.

The cons of these dogs a lot. 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 fur, 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 that relate to both appearance and color, and behavior and habits. Consider in more detail what types of huskies 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 used to, is the result of the work of breeders who 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 weight - 30 kg. These true friends of man are different cleanliness. They do not exude unpleasant odors, like most other dogs. This can not but rejoice the many owners who contain the homes of these pets.

The Siberian Husky's wool is rather coarse and has a soft undercoat. During periods of molting, it must be thoroughly combed daily.. At other times, there is often no need to resort to such procedures - one is enough once a week.

Siberian Huskies are great hunters. That is why their coexistence with rodents in the same territory can end in tears for the latter. In females, usually hunting instincts appear much stronger than in males. But there is no reason to worry - a furry fellow will hunt only for fun.

Siberian Husky is not the best guard because in these dogs there is no malice and excess aggression. Throwing on strangers, they will not, and may even come up to a stranger.

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

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

Yakut Huskies wrongly called huskies. Initially, she was bred as a sled dog. These individuals have a strong constitution, well-developed musculature. As for appearance, it is true in many respects similar to the appearance of the northern brothers. Only the eyes of the huskies are straight, wide-set.These individuals have a more good-quality wool, a well-developed mane. Their color is often spotty and more diverse than in other varieties.

Japanese Huskies are called Akita Inu. These are long-haired animals with a characteristic large head of a triangular structure. The eyes of the Akita are small, and the ears are erect, like the tail twisted into a ring. The average weight of these furry friends is 45 kg, and height - 70 cm.

American Huskies are called Eskimo husky. These dogs are very closely related to Siberian "comrades". True, we must take into account the fact that These animals are completely not adapted to life in the conditions of an ordinary city apartment. They are much more comfortable living in the private sector, where you can make a large and spacious aviary for your pet and where it will not feel cramped. American dogs also just adore a lot, run long and fast.

It has not yet been recognized as a separate subspecies. These dogs are distinguished by not too thick and short fur. There is a genetic mixed relationship with relatives, because of which the Alaskan individuals are still unable to recognize the commission. German shepherds, Border Collies, as well as luxurious and luxurious Alaskan Malamutes were involved in breeding these animals.

On the territory of Russia in the village Listvyanka there is a nursery, under which a separate subspecies of the Huskies was bred (according to the breeders). It was the first time when beautiful Baikal dogs were seen.

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

Huskies are also bred in Finland. Dogs belonging to the Finnish subspecies, have resulted from the crossing of the most common Siberian Husky and representatives of racing breeds. They feel great in the conditions of extremely low temperatures and love to walk in a team. Riding tours with these beautiful dogs are terribly popular in Finland.

There is a kennel in Kamchatka where they breed a separate subspecies of dogs. They are called Kamchatka and are bred for the purpose of participating in racing, organized every year in dog sledding. Participants run more than a thousand kilometers in conditions of low temperatures and frost. Kamchatka dogs are not afraid of such external factors, since they were bred for the passage of the race in such conditions.

If, despite all the nuances of the content and disadvantages of the representatives of this sled breed, you still want to buy a husky puppy, then you should know that it is necessary to choose it carefully and deliberately. The first step is to consider the whole 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 copy. Noticing the limitations in the means, the seller will try to implement the weaker or even sick individuals.

Watch the puppies while they frolic in the aviary. At this time, you need to pay attention to some features of the behavior of animals.

• If you notice that the puppy behaves too timidly, then this will not be a good sign. If several babies behave in this way, then this should not reassure you. Most likely, in front of you puppies from one litter. This means that after a while the animal will behave too fearfully and uncertainly, which is completely at odds with the behavior of the purebred proud husky.
• Healthy boys and girls of good quality must be friendly and treat even strangers with confidence. They should meet the guest with funny jumps, attempts to lick a person or grab him by his clothes or laces. Often people are frightened and suspicious of such behavior of small huskies: what if the baby will continue to be hyperactive and will not listen enough? In the case of Huskans, such a description is normal - they behave very actively, and they don’t always like to obey the owner.

It may seem that puppies behave too selfishly and self-confident. Yes, such factors are the place to be, and they will have to be fought as they grow up. If you understand that you cannot cope with such traits of an animal, it is better to immediately refuse to purchase, so that in the future you don’t have to get rid of an already trained and ill-bred dog, causing him serious psychological trauma.

Buy purebred husky need in elite nurseries with a good reputation or in good faith breederswho can provide all the necessary documents. It is advisable immediately after the purchase to consult with the seller or specialists of the shelter about the feeding and care of the baby, when you bring him to your home.

It has already been mentioned above that representatives of this northern breed are undemanding in matters of care. However, this does not mean that they do not have to care for. Still, the owner will require certain actions to keep the animal clean and healthy. Let's look at how to care for huskies.

• Departure requires wool these dogs. It is required to comb out during the entire period of molting. Wash the dog as needed. Comb your fur periodically so that it does not get confused and does not stray into mats, especially if you hold a long-haired individual.
• Monitor the condition of the dog's teeth. It is necessary to clean them every day with a special paste. It is advisable to buy for Husky special bones and toys sold in pet stores. With these things, animals will brush their teeth.
• Do not forget to trim the claws of the dog. It is desirable to do this at least once a month. Shorn claws will make the Huskies safer for both the household and for himself.
• It is very important to provide care for the eyes of a dog of any age. From time to time, wipe the eyes with a wet swab to remove the discharge. This should be done as needed. Always inspect the dog's eyes in time to notice the inflammatory processes that have begun, with which you must begin to fight in a timely manner. If you notice redness, green or yellow discharge from the eyes, it is best to contact your veterinarian.
• 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 huskies too often. In most cases, the owners wash these dogs only in special cases. This may occur no more than once a year. Regular haircuts for these dogs are not needed.

Husky puppies and adults should be fed properly. Only under the condition of compliance with this rule can we talk about the health and longevity of the pet.

Initially, the dog must choose food - dry or wet. Many owners choose exactly dry food, because they do not need to be pre-cooked - just pour the food in a bowl and that's it.However, both granulated and wet food (pate, slices in the gravy) should belong to high quality classes.

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

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

Huskies can not be fed such products:

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

You should always remember that a husky spends an incredible amount of energy during the day. For this reason, dogs of a given breed always need to replenish it, consuming a sufficient amount of food saturated with proteins. It is very important to give your pet an exceptionally balanced diet. It must contain vitamins A, E, C, D, B, K and many others. In addition, in the food should take place such elements as:

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

Many people are interested in how to cope with the Huskies, how to wean off biting, unexpectedly run off and perform other wrong actions. Before you begin to train these pets, you need to consider that they absolutely will not do anything just like that. They will always need a 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.

In six months the dog can undergo a course of training. As for the basic basic commands, they can be studied before. The endless and monotonous repetition of the same teams quickly get tired of the dog. For this reason, experts advise to consolidate the knowledge gained by the dog in practice during walks or games. Especially strongly Huskies can bribe the delicacies received for correctly executed task.

Huskies very quickly and easily accustomed to the toilet on the street. Until the age of 6-8 months, a puppy can walk on a newspaper or diaper at home without leaving the home walls. At this age, children are very difficult to tolerate, so scolding them for dirty sex is not recommended - with this you will only push away an already proud and wayward dog.

When a purebred baby is vaccinated, it can be safely displayed on the street. To the dog rather understand what 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 thing for the Huskies is to master the command “close by”. Despite this, it can not be neglected. If the dog does not learn the team, then during walks he will drag the master behind him, not reacting to all his protests and indignations. I must say, Huskies almost always need something to drag. Pulling the leash is their standard habit, put on the gene level. The owner can take such behaviors under personal control. It will take a lot of time, effort and patience. It will not be superfluous to learn such commands as “Left!”, “Right!”, “Stop!”, “Shake Off!”, “Back!”.

Husky is difficult to train. In this case, many owners enlist the help of experienced trainers and professional canine.

The Husky is a truly controversial, unusual and bright dog, unlike any other existing breed.These northern riders can fall in love with themselves at first sight, and in a couple of minutes you can disturb a person with unnecessary arrogant behavior.

From the good owners of these animals it was noticed:

• friendly disposition, sociability, they easily make contact with people and other animals;
• people who are fond of different kinds of sports literally fell in love with these dogs, because with such pets you can practice in pairs, and this is much more interesting;
• Husky's playful temper makes many owners happy, uplifting;
• according to most breeders, they cannot stop looking at the beauty of these animals;
• fine mind;
• endurance;
• love children and do not harm them;
• do not exude sharp "dog" odors.

Some people call the Huskies a real “miracle of nature” and “best friend.” However, about these dogs, the owners leave and not the most good reviews. Of the minuses, people emphasize:

• large amount of hair falling out;
• just crazy energy and activity, which is very difficult to cope with;
• hard to train a dog;
• Huskies get along hard in apartments, because they lack space there and have to spend most of the day with them on walks, and not everyone has the time for it;
• at some owners the dog steals food from the table and eats slop on the street;
• the dog often does not obey.

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

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