Husky (Image: Coquet Vets)
Huskies are playful, friendly, and very intelligent pets. They are known for their loving nature and make excellent companions for people with active lifestyles.
The term "husky" first came into usage in the mid-to-late 1700s. At this time, "Esquimaux" or "Eskimo" was a common term for the pre-Columbian Arctic inhabitants of North America. Several dialectal permutations were in use, including 'Uskee', 'Uskimay' and 'Huskemaw'. Thus, dogs used by Arctic people were the dogs of the Huskies, the Huskies' dogs, and eventually simply the husky dog.
Husky (Image: Coquet Vets)
Canadian and American settlers, not well versed in Russian geography at that time, would later extend the word to Chukotka sled dogs imported from Russia, thus giving rise to the term Siberian husky.
As huskies are active and very playful, their favourite thing to do is to run. They also love to explore, dig, bury, and escape from any insecure areas. As such, the husky breed can be very high maintenance for exercise behaviour and grooming.
Huskies are not a good fit for owners who will leave them alone for long periods of time, as they can suffer with separation anxiety, which will often cause destructive behaviour.
Husky (Image: Coquet Vets)
Although huskies are very intelligent, they do have a strong independent streak alongside a high prey drive. Huskies are also a stubborn breed and likely to do their own thing. It’s always best to start their training early and keep it consistent, particularly with recall.
If this article has raised any concerns about your pet, or you would like more advice about this dog breed, please call us at Coquet Vets on 01665 252250.
