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Siberians are extremely enthusiastic diggers. You
may be able to diminish this behavior but not stop it entirely.
Secure the dog away from your prize flowerbeds or shrubs.
Siberian Huskies were bred to work and live in very close quarters
so aggression between each other or towards people was not allowed.
As a result, Siberian Huskies are not suspicious of strangers
and are generally friendly and outgoing with humans, making them
very poor watchdogs. If fact, most will not bark when someone
comes to the door. Huskies are big enough that most people will
naturally fear them, but you won't have to fear the dog will bite
and you'll end up in court.
The Siberian is a wonderful companion for children. They have
a natural gentleness with children and their playful nature persists
throughout their 13-15 year life span. To be a good citizen with
children you must train your dog to not jump on people or allow
the dog to become food or object possessive.
Siberian Huskies are an energetic and lively bunch. While adult
dogs can be big "couch potatoes", young dogs and pups need a way
to burn off excess energy without resorting to trouble. Time spent
out in an exercise pen, average sized fence yard, or on a cable
run is sufficient. It's not necessary to take the dog for long
walks or jogging daily although the dog would love it and would
likely be good for you too.
Unlike most breeds, Siberian Huskies do not shed constantly all
year round. They tend to shed for about a month in the late fall
and again for a month late spring or summer. When they are shedding
they look terrible and lots of hair is lost. Frequent brushing
will help keep the hair off the floor but will not hurry it up.
The good news is that Siberian Huskies do not have the typical
"doggie" odor, which can be quite offensive in some breeds. Frequent
bathing is not necessary.
Canines are pack animals and live by pack rules. This means that
there is always a "top dog", then number 2, 3 and 4 etc. The dog
will fill in the highest place in the pack he is allowed to. Since
you and your family is who he lives with, you are his "pack".
To be "top dog, you must be seen as the dominant pack member.
Certain actions are recognized as dominate behavior; deep growling
tones are aggressive while high-pitched whining tones are submissive.
When you verbally correct the dog, pitch your voice as low as
possible. Avoid harsh physical punishment like spanking or whipping
or your dog will learn to avoid you and will not respect you.
Some dogs become fear biters in response to harsh physical discipline.
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