9781422278444

straight. His job was to pull a load two or three times his own body- weight, which means that power must come from the hindquarters, propelling him forward, with the forequarters taking most of the impact. Working in sub-zero temperatures, the Siberian Husky needed a warm, thick coat to protect him—and all Husky owners will testify to the fact that he has a coat and a half! The topcoat is medium length and the longer, stiff guard hairs give some protection, but it is the dense undercoat that provides the real insulation. This is shed twice a year— and the amount of hair that will fill your house is truly amazing. The Husky can be just about any color, including solid black or solid white, and everything in between. He often has striking mark- ings on his head that look a bit like a mask. His ruff of fur on either side of the head make it look wider than it really is—beneath all the hair, he is sleek and trim. The triangular ears are pricked and alert, but well-furred to protect them from frostbite. The almond-shaped eyes are set obliquely. The eyes can be blue, brown, or one of each color. The typical Husky expression is one of keenness—maybe with a hint of mischievousness.

Living with a Siberian Husky There was a time when the Siberian Hus- ky was little known outside northern Siberia. Bred to work in a team, pulling loads across ice and snow, he does not appear to have the makings of a pet. How- ever, he has proved doubters wrong and, in the right hands, he is a superb companion dog. This is a breed

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