Alaskan Husky

The Alaskan Husky is more popular in the USA than it’s ancestor, the Siberian Husky. Alaskan Huskies don’t have to withstand severe frosts and survive in harsh conditions. Nowadays, they are used mainly as sled and racing dogs, therapy animals and family companions. Alaskan Huskies are selected for speed and temperament. This breed lacks much of the hunting drive their ancestors possessed, which makes them easier to train and live with. The Alaskan Husky is not recognized by any major kennel clubs and cannot participate in conformation shows for purebreds.

Purebred Northern dog breeds cannot match the Alaskan Husky for sheer racing speed. Teams of Alaskan Huskies traditionally win in a number of speed-racing events such as the Fairbanks, Alaska Open North American Championship, and the Anchorage Fur Rendezvous. Some breeders crossbreed Alaskan Huskies with hounds or gun dogs for agility. The winning speed of a Husky team is about 31 km/h. Breed fanciers are ready to pay over $10,000 for a high quality Alaskan Husky. Racing dogs that cannot meet high standards are worth little. The level of culling among Alaskan Huskies is very high. Racing dogs can be scarcely used for something else. They make difficult pets for unknowledgeable owners and the demand for purebred Alaskan Huskies is not high.

In Alaska, this breed is very popular as pet dogs, because only Northern breeds are happy in harsh conditions and can thrive in severe frosts. Alaskan Huskies make the easiest pets among other Northern dogs. Alaskan Husky puppies unfit for racing are offered for free to any good home in Alaska. Older ex-racing Alaskan Huskies make friendly and obedient pets. They become good guards and playing companions for kids.

It’s not a good idea to take Alaskan Huskies to southern states, as they are adapted to cold and will feel unwell in warm and humid climates. Being very hardy and endurable, Alaskan Huskies loose a half of their working abilities in warmer climates and develop ear and related infections. Alaskan Huskies of all ages make trustworthy and loyal pets only if given enough space to run and play. Their lifespan depends to a high degree on their activity level. Urban residents cannot provide a high level of exercise to burn off the excessive energy of an Alaskan Husky.