Not German Shepherd but .......... - Page 2

The point is, dog breeds have been developed for certain purposes and there fore are going to be what they have been bred to be. A husky is not trritorial so is not going to be a "watchdog" , for example. Many people don't take breed purposes into concideration and get a dog because they like it's looks. Then when the dog doesn't behave other than the way it is genetically programed, many end up in shelters or dumped. (I'm not saying that's what happened to your husky).

Joanro 

Physically tough, generally sweet natured, yes roamers or runners as that is what they were bred to do, run for endurance and speed where the Malamute was slower and less distance runners difference being size, and Malamute NEVER should have any eye color than dark brown, where the Siberian can have blue, one blue eye, one brown (or by-eyed) very normal;  Siberians that are raised with cats MIGHT, and I say MIGHT BE OK WITH THEIR CAT, probably not others, hunters, and extremely athletic breed.  Breathtakingly beautiful breed but of course, like the GSD's and other working breeds NOT for everyone.  Health in general is good, some cancers, definitely eye problems some blinding some dystrophy's, tough whelpers meaning some have to have C-sections, fairly good longevity, hunters and self survivers.  Generally will get along with their pack, or I should really say are supposed to get along with their pack.  The latter siberians are not as social as the breed used to be, lots of homework and early training and socialization needed but can compete in obedience, rally, agility and all the athletic venues offered to them. 

If kept LEAN and muscled up can live to be 14ish give or take.  That is a plus.  Generally very intelligent, but again not for everyone and can jump a six foot fence with ease.  Also climb a fence or kennel run.

Personally I love the northern breeds, Samoyeds, Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes.  Grooming required on all of course.  Usually easy keepers as far as amount of food they get, very minimal to maintain lean muscle mass.  Bye for now  Nan

PS:  Generally not barkers, screamers and woohers, like a wolf.  Howlers.  Can be any color and any combination of colors, I do not believe they have any color disqualifications.  Wolf gray, black and white, white, red, pie-ball the list goes on.  Those are the colors that are probably most prominent.  Nan

I'd just like to add to my statement that breeds have been developed for certain purposes or jobs, that the 'purpose' is being 'bred out of' most breeds. Hence, the split in almost every breed into show lines and working lines.

Sad but true Joanro, but in the siberians they can really do it all and versitility still remains in the breed which is what usually goes first.  Show, work, agility, rally, brains and beauty.  Of course you need to find a reputable breeder like all breeds, but old time breeders I know still show and work their dogs, or run on teams.  Great days,  Nan

Joanro, I know what they are bred for and why they behave the way they do. DUH.   I was just sharing my personal experience.  Our husky was a rescue and was my daughter's dog.  The rescue organization hid the fact that she (husky) had already killed small animals from us.  We were told she got along well with other dogs and cats.   She lived with us for over 4 years and she lived a good life.    I just personally do not want to own another husky.   

gg, :)