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Breed profile

Siberian Husky

Built to run all day in the cold. Friendly to everyone, obedient to no one.

Close-up of a red and white Siberian Husky with amber eyes looking straight at the camera
Copper coat and a steady husky stare.Photo: Olga1969 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0
Weight
16–27 kg35–60 lb
Height
51–60 cm20–24 in
Lifespan
12–15 yrs
Group
Working
Origin
Siberia (Russia)
Popularity
#30 US#80 UK · 2025

Known for: Cold climatesRunning partnersWorking dogsGood with other dogs

Energy
Shedding
Trainability
Barking
Good with kids
Flat-friendly

Temperament

Friendly, Independent, Energetic, Mischievous.

Health problems to know about

  • Eye diseases (juvenile cataracts, PRA, corneal dystrophy)
  • Glaucoma (breeders screen by gonioscopy)
  • Congenital laryngeal paralysis
  • Hip dysplasia (less common than in many large breeds)

Ask breeders for the parents' health test results, and check what your national breed club recommends screening for.

Daily care

Lots of running (harness sports are ideal). Escape-proof fencing. Huge seasonal moults.

A good fit for

Runners, cold climates, experienced owners.

Probably not ideal for

Hot climates, homes with small pets, owners wanting reliable recall.

Sources

  1. Royal Kennel Club: Siberian Husky
  2. Wikipedia: Siberian Husky

Popularity: AKC 2025 registration rankings (US); Royal Kennel Club 2025 registrations (UK, ranked by us). Breed traits are tendencies, not guarantees. Individual dogs vary, and mixed breeds and rescues can be wonderful fits too.

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