According to Mr. Michael Jennings, noted author on Siberian Huskies, the breed standard "is the written document that guides judges in their selections in the show ring - an attempt to describe the ideal specimen of that breed in terms of type, soundness, and temperament" (there's that word again!). For those of you that may not be familiar with the American Kennel Club breed standards for the Siberian Husky, we have included this condensed version for your enlightenment. At the bottom of this page is a link to Michael Jennings definitive book on the breed :
Siberian Husky, Able Athlete, Able Friend. We were very flattered to learn that an amazing photo of SIBEX Siberians in action was chosen to illustrate the chapter entitled "Training For The Trail". Our thanks to Cheryl Scheall for taking the picture, and to Michael for including it in the book.
The (condensed) AKC Breed Standard
General Appearance - The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized working dog, quick and light on his feet and free and graceful in action. His moderately compact and well-furred body, erect ears and brush tail suggest his northern heritage. His characteristic gait is smooth and seemingly effortless. He performs his original function in harness most capably, carrying a light load at a moderate speed over great distances. His body proportions and form reflect this basic balance of power, speed, and endurance. The males of the Siberian Husky breed are masculine but never course ; the bitches are feminine but without weakness of structure. In proper condition, with muscle firm and well-developed, the Siberian Husky does not carry extra weight.
Temperament - The characteristic temperament of the Siberian Husky is friendly and gentle, but also alert and outgoing. He does not display the possessive qualities of the guard dog, nor is he overly suspicious of strangers or aggressive with other dogs. Some measure of reserve and dignity may be expected in the mature dog. His intelligence, tractability, and eager disposition make him an agreeable companion and willing worker.
Summary - The most important breed characteristics of the Siberian Husky are medium size, moderate bone, well balanced proportions, ease and freedom of movement, proper coat, pleasing head and ears, correct tail, and good disposition. Any appearance of excessive bone or weight, constricted or clumsy gait, or long, rough coat should be penalized. The Siberian Husky never appears so heavy or coarse as to suggest a freighting animal ; nor is he so light and fragile as to suggest a sprint-racing animal. In both sexes, the Siberian Husky gives the appearance of being capable of great endurance. In addition to the faults already noted,
the obvious structural faults common to all breeds are as undesirable in the Siberian Husky as in any other breed, even though they are not specifically mentioned herein.
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Applying The Standard
SIBEX Siberians takes all of these breed characteristics into consideration when we contemplate a potential litter. Anyone can throw a couple of dogs together to mate and call themselves a "breeder", but in reality it's not nearly as easy as that. It takes lots of study, years of experience, and a good gene pool to serve as a foundation for any breeding program. We not only study pedigrees and bloodlines, we study personalities and temperaments for true working aptitude. Over the years, Geri has developed a keen eye for great dogs and can recite some pedigrees from memory. A former K-9 handler in the military, John's area of expertise is with personalities and training, with an uncanny ability to evaluate personalities and temperaments - he can usually "read" a dog just by spending a few minutes of play. It is this complimentary blending of genetic knowledge and hands-on training experience that helps us make informed decisions about the SIBEX breeding program.
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Do Your Homework - Get The Book !
If you're serious about getting into the "dog game" and need an experienced mentor, feel free to contact us. We're always glad to help others that are willing to learn. Give yourself a head start by purchasing Michael Jennings book, Siberian Husky - Able Athlete, Able Friend. You can jump right to Amazon.com by clicking here.
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