Also known as the Canadian Eskimo Dog, Canadian Inuit Dog, Quimmiq, Esquimaux, and the Eskimo Dog, the American Husky is an intelligent and alert 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 American Husky can be traced back to 18th century Canada. Enthusiasts believe the breed to be among the oldest of all dogs from the region, though this has never been proven scientifically or otherwise.
Throughout its history, the American Husky has been most commonly used for sled pulling and racing, hunting large game, and as a family pet and companion, proving its superior abilities to work while providing friendship.
The American Husky become extremely popular during the 19th and early 20th centuries, and was used for many impressive polar expeditions. By 1959, the American Kennel Club was forced to drop the breed due to low numbers. By 1963, the Canadian Kennel Club had merely one American Husky registered.
Credited for saving the breed are William Carpenter and John McGrath, who in 1972, established the Eskimo Dog Research Foundation. The two men collected the 200 breed-able specimens remaining and have worked endlessly to repopulate the breed to stable numbers.
Today, while the American Husky remains rare outside of Canada, the breed no longer fears extinction.
Personality Traits
Best known for its outgoing and energetic nature, the American Husky is a genuinely happy breed that loves to work. This breed is highly intelligent and generally very easy to train. These dogs thrive on strong and dependable relationships with humans, and are very alert and aware of their surroundings. As a pet, the American Husky is obedient, loyal, loving, and affectionate. The American Husky enjoys spending time outdoors and thrives in most any climate.
Train-ability
Due to its need for human relationships and willingness to learn, the American Husky generally responds well to basic training and commands. This breed is very bright and has the ability to learn to perform most any task its trainer is willing to take the time to teach.
Establishing immediate dominance, trust, and respect is key to successfully training the American Husky. These dogs require a stern yet gentle approach by a patient, caring, and confident handler.
Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed
There are many benefits to owning an American Husky. This active breed is always on the go, and often quite amusing and entertaining to watch while at play. These dogs are highly intelligent, easy to train, and capable of learning to perform many impressive tricks and tasks. When properly socialized from a young age, the American Husky gets along well with older children and other pets. This breed is very alert and aware of its surrounding, making an effective watch and guard dog, announcing the arrival of guests and unwanted visitors, and serving as a deterrent to would-be intruders. The American Husky is obedient, loyal, loving, and affectionate, making an excellent family pet and companion alike.
Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning an American 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 American 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 American Husky is not recommended for households with small children. While this breed is generally very gentle and friendly, these dogs are somewhat excitable and may accidentally injure small children.
Like most Spitz breeds, the American Husky has a thick and full coat which requires almost constant attention such as brushing, bathing, and grooming to prevent matting and maintain its attractive appearance.
As previously mentioned, the American Husky remains rather rare outside of Canada and can prove difficult to obtain. Individuals wishing 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 American Husky is typically known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cataracts, distichiasis – ingrown eye lashes, prone to heat stroke, and bloat.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own an American 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/american-husky.html
http://pets-place.net/canadianeskimodogprofile.html
