THE 5 TYPES OF HUSKY: CHARACTERISTICS AND BEHAVIOR - BIOLOGY - 2024

There are 5 types of husky, considering as such those dogs that adapt to arctic temperatures, and that are strong enough to work pulling a sled. Keep in mind that the types we mention in this article are crosses, not dog breeds. Siberian husky breed there is one.

Husky is the name for several types of dogs that are used to lead a sled in northern arctic and sub-arctic areas such as Canada, Alaska and the Siberia region of Russia. In fact, it is from these last two areas that the two best-known varieties of huskies come.

If we speak exclusively of husky dogs as a breed, the International Cynological Federation (FCI), which is the organization in charge of stipulating the standards of each canine breed, only recognizes one: the Siberian husky.

The different types of husky and their characteristics

1- Siberian Husky

This is considered the original husky breed. The Siberian husky hails from northeast Siberia, specifically from Chikotka, Russia. It is a completely Nordic race that bears a resemblance to wolves.

They were originally bred by the Chukchi tribe, who used them for herding work, to pull sleds and even as companion dogs.

These dogs are characterized by being always alert. They are robust, but not for that heavy. On the contrary, they are very light, which makes them very fast. They have a compact and muscular body well covered with hair.

In fact, their coat is usually thick and dense, but of medium length. Siberian huskies change their hair twice a year. For this reason they need to be brushed vigorously three times a week at least.

This type of dog needs a lot of exercise, which is why they prefer to be outside. They love to walk and run. Regarding their personality, they are friendly both with people and with other dogs. They are usually independent, but not lonely. In fact, being used to living in packs, they cannot stand loneliness.

2- Alaskan Husky

The Alaskan husky is not a breed itself, but a type of dog so named because it is engaged in the work of pulling a sled. These dogs are descended from Siberian wolves.

In fact, many of them carry Siberian husky DNA in their veins. They were brought to this region between 1908 and 1909 by the fur trader William Goosak for a sled race.

This type of husky is basically a mixed breed sled dog that is characterized by its ability to work and not by its appearance. Compared to Siberian huskies, Alaskan huskies are thinner in build and have less fur. Their head is also slimmer and longer than the Siberian variety and in addition, they have the eyes farther apart on the sides.

Like Siberians, Alaskan huskies can have blue or brown eyes. It is worth noting that although huskies are usually known for having blue eyes, only 20% of them have this color.

Another 20% have them of mixed color, that is, one brown and one blue for example. And the rest are brown. There are also crosses between the Alaskan husky and the Siberian husky. These are called Alaskan American Huskies.

3- Sakhalin Husky

This type of husky is also known as the Karafuto dog. It is a fairly rare Japanese sled breed even in its native country. This variety corresponds to a Spitz-type breed that developed in the early 20th century.

The origin of the Sakhalin husky is not exactly known, but it is believed to be descended from two breeds in the region: the Japanese Spitz and the Akita.

Like the other varieties of husky, the Sakhalin have been used to pull sleds, for hunting games and as a watchdog. The ears of this type of dog are small, pointed and slightly tilted forward.

As with other Spitz-type breeds, its tail curls up and is pulled up onto its back. This Japanese variety has an average height of 55 to 65 cm and a weight of between 30 and 40 kilos.

When it comes to personality, this type of dog is dedicated, obedient, loving and very loyal. Therefore, it is usually one of the best breeds to have as a family pet.

Like all other types of huskies, this strain is very energetic, so keep them busy whether it's working or playing. In case he doesn't get enough exercise, he can turn into a destructive dog.

4- Mackenzie River Husky

This is the name by which a wide variety of dogs from the arctic and sub-arctic regions of Alaska and Canada are described.

The Mackenzie River huskies were named for a river in Alaska and date back to the 1800s. These dogs are not a breed per se but rather a type of sled dog. They were the result of the crossing of huskies with dogs originating in Europe such as the Newfoundland and the Saint Bernard.

Regarding its appearance, it is a large dog with a long tail and a long, thick and thick coat. They can be of any color and weigh between 28 and 47 kilos. Its height is between 66 and 73 centimeters.

Regarding their temperament, Mackenzie River huskies tend to get along well with other dogs and are also easy to train. Of course, they adapt very well to cold climates and require regular brushing. On the other hand, they need to have a moderate level of activity.

5- Labrador Husky

Although by name it might seem that the Labrador Husky is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Siberian Husky, it is not. This type of dog is a completely separate breed that has many little-known similarities to wolves.

The exact origin of the labrador husky is unknown. But it is well known that this breed developed in a region in northern Canada known as the Labrador. Hence the name of the breed.

They are very intelligent dogs and because they are fast learners, they can be easily trained. Regarding their weight, they can weigh between 27 and 45 kilos. And they can measure between 50 and 70 centimeters. The females of this breed are usually slightly smaller than the males.

Regarding their temperament, they are usually friendly and affectionate by nature. They get along very well with children when they are raised together. And although they are calm, they also need exercise. It is better not to leave them alone for a long time because it could lead to behavior problems.

References

1. Kanzler, K. (2010). Siberian Husky. A complete introduction for the owner. Barcelona, ​​Spain. Editorial Hispano Europea. SA
2. Canine Encyclopedia (2011). Mexico. Recovered from petspfi.com.
3. Hetta Huskies (undated). Different Types Of Husky. Finland. Recovered from hettahuskies.com.
4. The Dog Club Online (no date). Sakhalin Husky. U.S. Recovered from dogspuppiesforsale.com.
5. Labrador Husky (undated). Canada. Recovered from petguide.com.
6. Dowling, D. (undated). Mackenzie River Huskies Historical Info. Alaska. Recovered from sleddogcentral.com.