9781422278444

with special needs, and it is vitally important to look beyond his appearance and make sure you can meet them. Unfortunately, too many people are attracted by his striking good looks and rush out to get a Husky without weighing the pros and cons. On the plus side, the Siberian Husky is friendly and outgoing and will bond closely with his human family. He gets along well with children, as long as ground rules are observed on both sides. He is a naturally clean dog and will settle in almost anywhere. However, the Siberian Husky has the mindset of a hunting dog and, given the opportunity, he will pursue any small, furry ani- mal—and will be deaf to your calls. This means he cannot be trusted off-leash except in a safe, enclosed exercise area. This has some very obvious drawbacks. The Husky was bred to run for hours, and the ideal Husky own- er needs to be as keen on exercise as his dog! Ideally, this will mean taking part in an active sport such as mushing, skijoring, or bike-

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