Siberian Husky: Breed Profile, Temperament and Care

Group

Working

Height

Males 21-23.5 in, females 20-22 in

Weight

Males 45-60 lb, females 35-50 lb

Temperament

Friendly, gentle and social, with a strong instinct to run

At a glance

• A medium-sized Working Group sled-dog breed bred for endurance and for working in packs ^1,3.
• AKC articles describe loyal, social dogs with innate friendliness, and a deep-rooted instinct to run ².
• Needs plenty of exercise and secure containment.

Overview

The Siberian Husky belongs to the AKC’s Working Group, and was bred for endurance and to work in packs ³. The AKC’s history article follows the breed from arctic protector to active companion ³.

Size

The official breed standard gives males at 21 to 23.5 inches and 45 to 60 pounds, and females at 20 to 22 inches and 35 to 50 pounds ¹. The AKC’s broader overview describes the breed as 20 to 23.5 inches tall and 35 to 60 pounds ².

Temperament

AKC articles describe Siberian Huskies as loyal and social by nature, with an innate friendliness, and note a deep-rooted instinct to run ². That instinct has a practical consequence: secure fencing and a lead in unfenced areas are sensible, and recall training needs patience. See our training handbook.

Exercise

A dog bred for endurance needs substantial daily exercise and mental work. Our guide to exercise and mental stimulation covers how to build a routine, and explains heat safety, which matters for a thick-coated breed.

Is this breed right for you?

A Siberian Husky may suit you if you are active, enjoy outdoor exercise and can keep a strong runner securely contained. It may not suit you if you want a dog that reliably stays off-lead, or you cannot offer plenty of daily activity.