Meet Luna!

Luna is a lovable Siberian Husky and if you’re wondering if this adorable dog is the right fit for you, here’s some more information about Huskies!

History

Huskies originally come from Northeastern Asia where the Chukchi people used them as sled dogs. The word “Husky” comes from a shortened version of the word “Eskimo” which is typically used to refer to Arctic people. Of course, I’m sure we are all well aware of the story which really brought the beloved Huskies to the global stage. In 1925, more than 100 Huskies were part of a dog sled team in Alaska which transported a life saving serum over 650 miles in less than 6 days! In Nome, Alaska there was a diphtheria epidemic, but Musher Leonhard Seppalla and his teams of dogs were there to save the day! Despite the treacherous Arctic winds, and temperatures below -30 degrees, these incredible huskies were able to push through and successfully transport the serum.

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Care

Similarly to the Border Collie, Huskies are full of energy! If you plan on owning this lovable breed, you need to understand your responsibilities as the owner. Huskies require lots of exercise, but they also tend to be great escape artists! They must be kept on a leash at all times or in a fenced in yard. Since Huskies are Arctic animals, they have adapted over time to living in cooler environments. Sadly, if you live in a warmer area, your Husky is going to overheat very easily. This means that perhaps a Husky is not the right breed for you, or you need to recognize that you will need to constantly run the air conditioning as well as providing lots of shade and water for your pup!

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Huskies have two coats- an undercoat and a guard coat, so they do need to be brushed weekly. There is a common misconception that Huskies shed a lot, but they really only shed during their shedding season twice a year. If it is not that time of the year, then Huskies actually do not shed much. Huskies also naturally clean themselves, so you only need to bathe them a few times a year!

Famous Huskies

The most famous Husky in the State College area is Luna!!! 

Even though Luna is a Husky mix (she’s actually part Border Collie!), she has many obvious Husky traits, starting with her love for the snow! Her doggy smile is on full display whenever she plays in the snow! Here in this picture below, you can see her desperately clinging to the small mound of snow that is still left. Whether it’s snowing or sunny and 100 degrees, Luna loves to be outside. In fact, her fur which started out pitch black now has distinctly faded sun spots! Many people think of Huskies as being terrible and scary wolf-like dogs, but Huskies are actually too friendly to make very good watch dogs! Luna affectionately greets each and every person who comes to the door, even total strangers! And she will be licking your face about 10 seconds after you arrive!

Shout out to Grace for having a great pup!

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AKC