Siberian Huskies are one of the most widely recognized dog breeds amongst the 360+ different breeds of dogs. Maybe you have seen one strolling around the neighborhood park or watched them protect the Starks in Game of Thrones. Either way, it’s incredibly easy to recognize the fluffy and wolf-like dog. If you’re considering getting yourself a husky friend, the below article will outline a few important things to know, from how can you tell if a husky is purebred to tips on what to look out for in reputable breeders.
In the modern-day, the term “purebred” is used very loosely. Many people have the understanding that purebred dogs are only bred from parents of the same breed. Not only do the parents have to be of the same breed, but all of the ancestors have to be as well. Often, these pups will have a traceable ancestry through a book called a studbook. This studbook contains data that dates back generations for that family of dogs, including the characteristics of the dog and its ancestors to their birth history.
But being purebred is not just about family. It also takes into consideration the traits specific to a breed. One of the ways to tell if a husky is purebred is to evaluate the dog’s appearance based on the Siberian Husky Standard by the Siberian Husky Club of America. These dogs are especially known for their medium build, balanced proportions, furry coat, and overall great attitude.
Another way is to evaluate the papers provided by the breeder. If the breeder is legitimate, they will show you their registration papers, pedigrees, as well as the mother and father of the puppy. You should also be aware that some breeders will attempt to forge these papers, so make sure to do your research on the documents they provide.
If you want to see what your husky is composed of on a genetic level, consider purchasing a dog DNA test. These tests can tell you many things about your dog, from what breed(s) they are to getting you in contact with their closest relatives. All you need to do is swab your dog’s cheeks, mail the sample, and wait. Most companies will provide you with a comprehensive digital profile of your dog through a website or mobile app in about 2-4 weeks.
For dogs, there is not exactly a set percentage that would make any dog considered purebred. Generally, what goes into consideration when determining a purebred dog is if they follow the national standard for their particular breed, their pedigree, and possible registration with an organization like the American Kennel Club. The only way to truly measure the purebred percentage of your dog is to conduct a dog DNA test. As previously mentioned, this is a service that can identify the breed(s) that your dog’s DNA aligns with down to specific percentages. It is possible for purebred dogs to appear as a mixed breed on these types of tests, but it is relatively uncommon and does not necessarily mean that that dog is not purebred.
One of the most striking features of the husky is their sharp-looking eyes. Many people think of huskies of having blue eyes, but this is not always the case. According to the Siberian Husky Standard, these dogs have almond-shaped brown or blue eyes or a mix of the two colors. Please be reassured that there is nothing wrong with your husky’s eyes if they have one, both, or a combination of these colors!
About 40% of the husky population have blue eyes that come in many shades. From icy to softer blues, every husky has a unique set of eyes that will surely swoon any dog lover. Similarly, another 40% of the population have brown eyes. Now don’t get me wrong – brown eyes are just as beautiful and also come in various shades. It is also possible for husky eyes to be bi-eyed (eyes with two different colors) and parti-colored (mix of blue and brown in both eyes).
Most purebreds have mixed-breed ancestors who, over time, were bred until it resulted in offspring with the specific characteristics of a particular breed. Many people will cite about 5-7 generations before a dog is purebred, but it can even be up to 100 generations. This depends on several factors including what the initial gene pool contained, size of the population, what genes are being selected for, and many others. To be sure of a dog’s lineage for their purebred status, a registered pedigree will show you the breed of the parents and preceding relatives, which should all be the same.
While no one is stopping you from doing so, purchasing a dog without papers can lend itself to some risks. Reputable breeders will usually supply you with registration papers, pedigrees, and health screening certificates (OFA and CERF certificates), which can tell you how stable your dog will be. In the case of purebred puppies, these documents will be important for you to prove their heritage. Even if you don’t plan on adopting a purebred dog, these papers can be equally as important, especially in the future health of your pet. Registration papers and pedigrees can show you the level of inbreeding in the dog’s family if any. Inbreeding occurs when closely related dogs are mated, which can result in offspring with many health issues. Having this knowledge will empower you to take the steps needed for your dog’s best health outcomes.
As it refers to huskies and dogs in general, being purebred is somewhat of a mixed bag. While there are different ways to determine whether a dog is purebred, sometimes they don’t always tell the whole story. To increase your chances of adopting a truly purebred husky, look for reputable breeders who can meet with you in person, provide the appropriate certifications and documents, show you the parents, and are registered to reputable organizations like the American Kennel Club. These breeders will ensure not only the quality of the dog but also their stability and health. If you are just curious about your dog’s purebred status, services like dog DNA tests will suffice. In the end, your dog’s health and happiness matter the most regardless of their purebred status.
