Collection: Personalised Siberian Husky Gifts

A dog of great beauty, the Siberian Husky originated amongst a tribe of Siberian nomads called the Chukchi. A dual-purpose dog, the Siberian Husky would pull the sledges in the day and then sleep with the children to keep them warm at night. The name ‘Husky’ is thought to derive from ‘Esky’ which is a shortened form of Eskimo.

Siberian Huskies played a life-saving role in the Nome diphtheria outbreak bringing aid and medical help to the people of the region suffering this deadly disease. Huge numbers of Huskies were involved in a most perilous journey and this mercy mission is still commemorated today.

Through the use of DNA testing, the Siberian Husky has been confirmed by scientists to be one of the oldest breeds in the world. Originating in Siberia, in 1908, the Husky then still known as the Chukchis were imported into Alaska and were used as sled dogs to transport people and goods during the Gold Rush. In 1930, the Soviet Government closed their borders and the export of the Siberian Husky ceased but the breed continued to thrive in Alaska and this was also the time that the sport of competitive dog sled racing known as mushing evolved.

The popularity of the racing led to the Siberian Husky becoming smaller, lighter and faster and with more stamina compared to the more stolid sledge dogs. In 1930, the American Kennel Club recognised the breed. During World War Two, the dogs were used in the US Army’s Arctic Search and Rescue Unit. The title of the breed, Siberian Husky, is a relatively recent invention and was not used until 1991.

The Siberian Husky is one high-energy breed needing plenty of exercise and they are fiercely independent so can be challenging for new or inexperienced dog owners. However, in the right environment, they can make brilliant and loyal family pets.