History of Siberian Huskies

Group of furry. The most common image that crosses someone’s mind at the mention of a Siberian Husky. Wolf like dogs that pull the sleds. It will be interesting to note that Siberian Husky is a breed that descended from the original breed of sled dogs. Therefore one of the oldest breed found. The term “Husky” was derived by Skewing Esky, which was a nickname used for Eskimos. In short, the name of this dog was meant to mean Eskimos’ dog.

However, this is not the original name that was associated with this breed. Originally,Siberian Huskies were called Chukchi dog. Because they belonged to a tribe named Chukchi. A tribe which resided in Siberia. The Chukchi can be called the tribe that was responsible for creating a breed. A breed that can be rightfully called the ancestors of Siberian Huskies. What they did through breeding was create a breed which could withstand the low temperatures. A breed that is able to pull load. Which were smart and gentle so that they could be domesticated as well.

A majority of the characteristics of Siberian Huskies, such as the desire to run frequently and endlessly. Gentleness in behavior, the intelligence and ability to work together in groups. All seem to have derived from the ancestral breed of Chukchi dogs.

However it was only towards the end of nineteenth century that these dogs were discovered by Alaskan traders. Subsequently they are introduced to America, renamed as Siberian Husky. By then, this breed had become popular as one of the best in Siberia, when it came to sled dogs. Charles Faux Maule Ramsay was well known for introducing this breed of dogs to Alaska. Since these dogs were good runners, they were used as a part of races. They were fine in pulling sleighs as well.

The story that made this breed popular with the common crowd was an incident. In 1925, diphtheria epidemic broke out in Nome, Alaska. When the supply of the serum was required to treat the epidemic fell short. It was a group of Siberian Huskies that were used to collect the serum supplies. They have delivered it to the doctors. Handled by popular Norwegian sled driver, Leonard Seppala. These dogs covered 350 miles in order to have the medicines delivered. This incident created a marked increase amidst the dog lovers for this breed. This breed was also used in the United States Army’s Arctic Search and Rescue unit during WWII. Thanks to their ability to withstand the low temperatures and work intelligently in groups.

It was in 1930s when the last of this breed was brought to Alaska. Soviet Union had issued decrees to stop importing these dogs across the border. This breed was recognized by American Kennel Club. It was followed also by Canada after nine years. It is thought that the current Siberian Huskies are descendants of two sources. Either the ones imported from Siberia or the ones that were owned by Seppala.

This is a dog that comes with an interesting history. Much more interesting, personality. The feature which will keep the owner interested and amused at the same time.

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