The Siberian Husky is a breed of dog that originated from the northeastern Siberian region of what is now Russia.  Smaller then most sled dogs, it was once believed that the Siberian Husky could not compete with the larger dogs, such as the Alaskan Malamute and Samoyed.
  
    Siberian Huskies stand between 20-24 inches and weigh between 35-60 pounds.  They are a member of the spitz family, and have the characteristically triangular, erect ears.  Their tails are not curled, but instead are held in a sickle position.  They have a long double coat that can come in a wide arrange of colors.  Normally they have white underbodies, as well as white on the face with other colors.  Any colors are accepted, and can include, black, white, grey, red, sable, tan, brown, agouti, and copper – as well as several unique patterns, such as piebald and pinto.  It is often believed that the eyes of a Siberian Husky are always blue, this is not the case, they may also be brown or amber, or have split colored eyes, or even one of each.
   
    Historically the Siberian Husky was kept by the Chukchi people of Siberia.  The economic and religious life was centered on their dogs, as well as survival.  These dogs would transport a man to ice fish and then return him home – sometimes traveling as much as 100 miles in a single day.  The richest members of the community owned the best dogs, and the dogs were the reason for their prosperity.  It was even believed that two Siberian Huskies guarded the gates of heaven and would turn away anyone who had ever been cruel to a dog in their lifetime.
   
    Siberian Huskies made their debut to the western world in 1909, racing in the grueling 400 mile All Alaska Sweepstakes.  It was in 1925 when the breed truly became known, for the famous “Serum Run”.   The city of Nome, Alaska was stricken with diphtheria and it was up to sled dogs to deliver the antitoxin.  The team run by Leonhard Seppala ran over 340 miles, no other team covered more then 53.  The Siberian Husky was fully recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) five years later.
   
    Today the gentle Siberian Husky has won the hearts of many as a faithful companion.  They are affectionate and loving towards all people, making them poor guard dogs.  Generally, if properly socialized, they get along well with children and other dogs.  They have a strong prey drive, do to the harsh conditions they were originally bred to live in, and therefore will instinctively attack smaller animals.  Siberian Huskies like to run and roam, so a secure yard, as well as daily exercise is a must.