Alaskan Husky Dogs

Breed Type: Cross Breed

Weight: Male -46 to 50 pounds (21 to 23 kg); Female - 38 to 42 pounds (17 to 19 kg)

Height: 23 to 26 inches (at the shoulder)

Coat Type: Dense thick double coat

 

Alaskan Husky cannot be classified as a single breed of dogs, as these dogs are usually cross-bred for efficiency. In other words, they represent a compilation of several working dog breeds and hence are defined only by their purpose, which is to serve as sled dogs. Alaskan Husky dogs are highly efficient in nature and are extremely popular throughout the world. They have great endurance in sled competitions and are amongst the preferred dogs in dogsled racing sprint competitions. In this article, we bring you details on the history, appearance, grooming, personality and genetic diseases of Alaskan Husky dog breed.

Alaskan Huskies were used as sled dogs in the 16^th century. they represent a relatively a new breed and are a mix of Northern type Siberian Husky, which were imported into Alaska from Bering Strait in Siberia, in 1908. At that time, they were typically heavy draft dogs that subsequently changed into lighter small dogs, with greater speed. Alaskan Husky dog is not yet registered with the American Kennel Club and hence is categorized under Unrecognized and Rare breeds. However it is classified under the Working Dog Group that employs guard dogs, sled dogs, police dogs and rescue dogs.

 

Alaskan Husky dogs have pointy ears and hence are classified as spitz-type dog. Their specialization exists within the breed as frightening dog (Mackenzie River Husky Malamute), sprint Alaskans (Eurohound), and distance Alaskans. The body of an Alaskan Husky is covered with dense thick double coat, which helps it keep warm in extreme cold conditions. However, the more the hunting dogs are mixed into the breed, the less true it will be. Alaskan Huskies usually have one brown and one blue eye. They either come in one color or in multicolor, ranging from brown, black and white to grey and red. They are extremely valuable dogs and are sold for anywhere between 10,000 and 15,000 USD.

 

Alaskan Huskies are cheerful working dogs who cannot be kept in apartments, as they require a lot of exercise and physical endurance, so that they do not turn obese. They range from medium to giant size, are extremely strong and possess lots of energy. They prove to be excellent jogging companions, as long as it’s not too hot. These dogs are independent and dominant by nature and hence are unsuitable as a normal family pet. Alaskan Husky dogs are clever, intelligent dogs, which are extremely caring and very fond of their families. They tend to howl and bark at other dogs and show destructive behavior out of boredom. They can even turn into willful and mischievous dogs, if they don’t finds leadership qualities in their master or see no point in obeying a command. These dogs hate being alone and can turn friendly with other dogs, if they are raised together from puppy stage.

 

Alaskan Huskey dog is prone to a few genetic diseases,similar to those found in purebred dogs, like PRA, hypothyroidism, etc. It might get affected with esophagus disorder called ‘wheezers’ as well, which makes it unable to bark. However, proper care can help protect the dog from these diseases. The average life span of an Alaskan Husky is between 10 and 15 years.

Alaskan Husky requires weekly care and grooming. A regular routine check up ensures that the potential health problems are found and treated at time. Its coat does not require much care. The dog undergoes two shedding seasons in a year, when its coat is required to be combed thoroughly with a metal comb.