But woe to the unprepared owner who thinks his or her Siberian should decorate the backyard with its beauty yet remain quietly in the background of family life. Siberians are gregarious pack animals. They demand activity, companionship, being in the middle of what's going on. Left to their own amusements, they become bored, then destructive, and finally look for escape. Being athletic, they need exercise and space to run. Yet they lack the protective, territorial instincts that would allow them to be trustworthy off leash and running free. A tall fence is a MUST, for a Siberian has to be confined. Siberians are superb hunters; cats and livestock are regarded as prey. Although generally easy to groom, twice yearly their dense undercoats shed--copious quantities of fluff that covers everything. Their outgoing natures make them regard everyone as friend, and they are worthless as guard and protection dogs. Their independence, combined with keen intelligence, make them unwilling to be slavish followers of a master's every whim. They learn quickly, but they obey only when it pleases them.

The Siberian in a medium-sized dog. Males range from 21"-23.5" at the shoulder and 50-60 pounds. Females range from 20-22" and 40-50 pounds. They come in shades of black, gray, and red with blue or brown eyes and often one of each. Pure white or piebald (white with large colored patches) are also acceptable. Eyes may be blue or brown, and many dogs have one of each or an eye with both colors.

The Siberian Husky was originally developed as a sled dog, pulling light loads over long distances. It is, therefore, a strong, athletic animal requiring daily exercise. Their thick double coat allows them to survive comfortably in subzero temperatures, yet with proper shade they adapt to much warmer climates.

Siberian have one of the lowest incidences of hip dysplasia of all breeds. Reputable breeders have breeding stock x-rayed and evaluated by OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.)

Hereditary eye disease can be a problem. Juvenile cataracts may develop in youngsters between six months and two years. Although most affected dogs do not have noticeably impaired vision, occasionally a dog goes blind. Corneal dystrophy is a second hereditary eye disease found in some Siberians. Abnormal fat cells are deposited on the cornea of the eye and can obscure vision. It normally appears after age five. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) has appeared in a few male Siberians, causing blindness. Glaucoma can also develop in some dogs.