Is it ok to have just one husky?

Question
Hi Marcus,
My neighbour's huskies recently had 5 puppies! 4 males and 1 female. I am going to adopt one but have no prior experience with huskies. I have a few questions:
1) Would the female husky be less challenging to raise than the male?
2) Would my husky be happy without a companion or should I adopt a pair?
3) What's the best way to potty train a young puppy that's just 8 weeks old? Should I train her to do at the same spot in my yard?
4) I heard they are great escape artists. Does it mean they are not happy with the owner? Is there anyway I can prevent them from escaping?

Thank you in advance for your time and patience!
April

Answer
1) Actually, males are a little more dominant usually, but sometimes easier to train.  So it's the lesser of two evils really.  My personal recommendation, go with what you feel is best.  That, or there is truth to the opposite sex attraction.  Male dogs often respond better to female owners, and female dogs to male owners.  It's not a huge distinction, but if everything else is equal, it can't hurt.

2) I don't recommend first time owners EVER try to train two Sibes at the same time.  However, they need and want a lot of social interaction - canine or human.  So, be prepared later on to be looking at other dogs.  Generally, once you have one adequately trained and in a routine, it's a perfect time to bring in a second.

3) Crate training is the best method.  If you haven't done research into that, definitely start.  If you need some more specific advice or need some help with it, let me know.  But it's a simple method and one that you should be able to find plenty of info on.

4) They are wonderful escape artists, and no, it doesn't mean they don't want to be with their owner.  Instead, this is a very intelligent and energetic breed that was bred to be nomadic.  They love to explore, and they love to run.  A gate or fence is a challenge, and the freedom of the outdoors is an adventure.  When they get out, they lack a homing instinct, and many can't remember how to get home (they were nomadic dogs).  The best method, is don't leave the dog unsupervised outside.  Baring that, wooden fences are difficult to climb, and electric hot wires along the base can discourage digging.  Nothing is 100% Siberian proof, but based on your situation, I may be able to help enlighten you to a few ideas of making your fence or yard Siberian resistant.  Also, a tired husky is a good husky, so plenty of exercise will also keep him more content with containment.

Hopefully that answers some of your questions.  I apologize for the late response, but I didn't get an email from AllExperts until this morning.  Please feel free to write back if you need clarification or have additional questions.