The Siberian Husky Challenge

Originally bred to pull sleds in nordic climates, Siberian huskies are extremely affectionate and energetic. Like all strains, Siberian huskies have distinctive character traits which make them endearing and challenging. While no dog breed is inherently more strenuous, certain husky traits can be challenging if your way of life doesn't fit his needs.

Exercise

The Siberian husky was bred to run for dozens of kilometers at one stretch without tiring. Without adequate exercise, huskies will become destructive inside or get lost after escaping from the yard for a run.

Shedding

Husky's shed constantly. Unlike Labrador retrievers, or other single coat shedding strains, the husky's fine, fluffy fur falls in large clusters, creating tumbleweeds of hair in your home. The downy like hairs from the husky's undercoat also sticks to everything from furniture to clothing. Regular brushing and grooming will reduce the shedding, but those with a low tolerance for stray fur will find huskies to be high maintenance.

Loneliness

Since Siberian huskies were bred to exist cooperatively with some other dogs and humans, they do not do well being home alone throughout the day or isolated from the family. For that reason, huskies are best suited for families where a minimum of one person is home throughout the day. Even though a husky who is left alone won't bark, they're likely to howl. This could be problematic if your neighbors live nearby. This means digging up your flower beds and tunneling under the fence. The urge to break out of restricted spaces and run in the open is among the numerous reasons huskies end up in shelters as stray dogs. The lightning speed of even a young husky puppy puts him in danger of harm if he decides to take off by himself.