How to Identify a Siberian Husky

Last Updated: September 30, 2022

One of the most popular dog breeds,^{[1]
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American Kennel Club
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.
Go to source} the Siberian Husky is known for being a sled dog. It can easily be confused with an Alaskan Malamute, another dog sometimes used to pull sleds, if you don't know the differences; however, the Siberian Husky does have some key traits. This wikiHow will help you understand whether a dog is a Siberian Husky.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Inspecting the Body Structure

1
Check the dog's size. Siberian Huskies are medium-sized members of the working group.^{[2]
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Trustworthy Source
American Kennel Club
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.
Go to source} Males are 21–23.5 inches (53–60 cm) tall and weigh 45–60 pounds (20–27 kg), while females are 20–22 inches (51–56 cm) tall and weigh 35–50 pounds (16–23 kg).^{[3]
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Trustworthy Source
American Kennel Club
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.
Go to source}

Did you know? Because Siberian Huskies are noticeably much smaller and lighter than Alaskan Malamutes, breeders and fanciers of the breed refer to it as the "Siberian" rather than the "Husky" because the latter implies a larger, brawnier dog than that described in the breed standard of the Siberian Husky.^{[4]
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Trustworthy Source
American Kennel Club
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.
Go to source}
2
Look at the ears. Siberians have thick ears that are triangular. They are medium in size, set high, strongly erect, and slightly rounded at the tips.^{[5]
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3
Inspect the eyes. The eyes of a Siberian Husky are almond-shaped and moderately spaced. They may be blue or brown, or a dog may have one of each color.^{[6]
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4
Notice the tail. Siberian Huskies don't have curled tails; however, their tails may stand sickle when the dog is at attention.^{[7]
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Research source} The tail usually hangs down from the back otherwise. It is fox-brush-shaped and well-furred, the fur medium in length.^{[8]
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See the dog's overall body structure. A Siberian's body is well-furred and moderately compact. They have firm muscles, a straight back, and a smooth, seemingly effortless gait.^{[9]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Looking at the Coat

1
Check the length of the coat. Siberian Huskies have double coats of medium length, giving the dog a well-furred appearance. The undercoat is dense and soft, though it may be hidden during shedding season.^{[10]
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Research source} The outer coat is straight and somewhat smooth lying.^{[11]
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2
Understand that a Siberian's coat may be any color. A Siberian Husky may be any color, from black to solid white.^{[12]
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Research source} Other colors seen include grey, brown, and red.
3
Notice white markings. Many Siberians have white markings. These can be found on the tail, stomach, chest, and legs. It is common to see a variety of markings on the head, as well.^{[13]
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4
Look for the agouti coat. "Agouti" is a special term used to describe a Siberian Husky with a coat of "alternating bands of light and dark" along the fur of the coat.^{[14]
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Trustworthy Source
American Kennel Club
The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.
Go to source} Not all Siberians are seen with this coat resembling wolf-coloring, but it may appear.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Checking Temperament

1
Notice high energy levels. Every dog has its own energy level, regardless of breed. However, Siberian Huskies tend to be more energetic than others. As sled dogs, it is natural for them to need lots of exercise to release their energy.^{[15]
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Watch for independent thinking. Siberians are intelligent but won't necessarily be quick to follow commands. They are clever and good at solving problems, so training may take some extra effort.^{[16]
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Look for a desire to be around others. Siberian Huskies are pack dogs. They enjoy being around people and other dogs, if they have been properly socialized.^{[17]
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See if the dog has a high prey drive. Siberians enjoy the company of people and other canines, but when it comes to other small animals, Siberians can demonstrate a high prey drive.^{[18]
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Research source} It is important to train a Siberian Husky to get along with these other animals.
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Check for friendliness. Siberian Huskies are generally very friendly. They can make good family pets if they are socialized and get enough of an energy release.^{[19]
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Community Q&A

Question

Are purebred dogs better than mixed breed dogs?

Linnie

Top Answerer

Whether purebred or mixed breed dogs are better is a matter of opinion. Purebred dogs are prone to more health problems because of the passing on of similar genes, but they are also bred for temperament. Mixed breeds are at a lower risk for health concerns but are not bred for temperament, so it can be hard to know how one will behave, especially if the parents' breeds are unknown. You can decide for yourself whether you prefer purebred or mixed breed dogs.
Question

How long do Siberian huskies live?

Linnie

Top Answerer

Siberian huskies have a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. They are a relatively healthy breed, so health concerns are not as prevalent, allowing them to live long lives.
Question

Do Siberian huskies, poodles, and golden retrievers get along?

Linnie

Top Answerer

Siberian huskies and golden retrievers typically get along well with other dogs, though poodles prefer the company of people over other dogs. However, if first introduced to the other dogs at an early age, the three could surely get along very well.