The Alaskan Husky is a hard working and devoted breed, but how do you know whether you are ready to purchase a pet and if this breed is right for you? This information is absolutely necessary in making the decision to purchase a pet.
History
The origin of the Alaskan Husky can be traced back to early 20th century Alaska, though it is widely believed that the breed dates back much further. Enthusiasts believe the Alaskan Husky to be a result of crossing such breeds as the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, and various other sled and endurance dog breeds, though this has never been proven scientifically or otherwise.
Throughout its history, the Alaskan Husky has been most commonly used for sledding, proving its superior abilities to work in the harshest of climates and terrain.
The sport of dog sledding slowly became less and less popularity during the automobile boom years of the mid 1900’s. By the 1970’s, the Alaskan Husky was being threatened by total extinction. Credited for saving the breed is breeder George Atla, who worked endlessly for years to repopulate the Alaskan Husky to the stable numbers it remains at currently.
Today, the Alaskan Husky remains a popular sled dog, and is slowly emerging as a family pet and companion. The breed is very rare outside of its native Alaska.
Personality Traits
Best known for its high energy levels and love of hard work, the Alaskan Husky is an extremely active breed. These dogs are highly intelligent, yet stubborn and independent, creating difficulty in training. As a pet, the Alaskan Husky is obedient, loyal, and loving. This breed is very alert and aware of its surroundings, and enjoys spending time outdoors and playing games such as fetch.
Train-ability
Due to its stubborn and independent attitude, the Alaskan Husky can prove difficult to train. This breed is known for growing bored and irritated with repetitive tasks and exercises.
Establishing immediate dominance, trust, and respect it key to successfully training the Alaskan Husky. These dogs require an experienced, patient, and confident handler with a stern and serious approach.
Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed
There are many benefits to owning an Alaskan Husky, such as its no hassle, low maintenance coat. This active breed is often quite amusing and entertaining to watch while at play. When properly socialized from a young age, the Alaskan Husky gets along well with small children and other pets, often making friends quickly due to its need to belong to a pack. These dogs are very alert and aware of their surroundings, making effective watch dogs, announcing the arrival of guests and unwanted visitors, and serving as a deterrent to would-be intruders. The Alaskan Husky is obedient, loyal, and loving, making an excellent family pet and companion alike.
Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning an Alaskan Husky. These energetic and athletic dogs require large amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play outdoors. Anyone wishing to purchase this breed lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing so. An Alaskan Husky not receiving the proper amount of exercise and space will often act out by destroying property, chewing, barking, whining, and ignoring basic training such as housebreaking.
The Alaskan Husky has a strong instinct to work and run, and will occasionally indulge in a good chase. When on the run, these dogs are extremely quick, and may pose a threat to other animals, neighborhood pets, and small woodland creatures. The Alaskan Husky must be leashed or properly secured at all times when outdoors.
As previously mentioned, the Alaskan Husky remains very rare outside of its native Alaska and can prove difficult to obtain. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed often encounter such challenges as inability to locate a breeder, high prices, and being placed on long waiting lists.
Common Health Concerns
While the Alaskan Husky is typically known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, distichiasis – ingrown eye lashes, progressive retinal atrophy, likeliness to develop tumors and cysts, and bloat.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own an Alaskan Husky? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.
Sources:
http://www.heydogs.com/a/alaskan-husky.html
http://www.alaskan-husky-behavior.com
