The site was last updated on

24 Aug 2000

Name of breed: Siberian Husky
Class: Working
Size: Height at withers: dogs 53-60cm (21-23.5 in) bitches 51-56cm (20-22in). Weight: dogs 20-27kg (45-60lb), bitches 16-23kg (30-50lb)
Coat: Medium in length, giving a well-furred appearance; outer coat straight and lying smooth against body; under coat soft and dense.
Colors: All colors and markings permissible; markings on head common, including striking ones not found on other breeds.

The Siberian Husky was developed in ancient times by the Chukchi people of north-east Asia who wanted a hardy sled dog with strength, speed and stamina. Wider recognition of its abilities came after the gold rush to Alaska at the turn of the century, when dog-hauled sled were the only means of transportation available. There was considerable rivalry between the dog teams, and Huskies became famed sled racing dogs.
The breed became renowned, during the Second World War, for search and rescue work. In the following decade it gained considerable  popularity in America, and by about 1960 and come into its own in the United Kingdom and elsewhere. 

Character and care

The Siberian Husky is an intelligent and friendly animal with considerable stamina. It is not an aggressive dog and may be kept as a family pet, provided it is given some work and plenty of space and exercise.