A little advise

Question
My brother just gave me a husky mix as a gift. He is a beautiful 8 week old, tan in color with what looks to be future blue eyes. We know his mom has some husky in her, she was a stray but looked very much like a husky. We have no idean of the dad, as she was already pregnant when found on the road side.  What are my chances of having a semi reasonable member of the family?  He has been with me for 2 days, he follows me all the way to the mail box (at me feet the whole time) unless my 12 year old chocolate lab is out, then he follows her.  Any chance that he may pick up her traits instead of the general husky traits?  I don't think I can manage a dog that is constantly an escape artist, runs out of the house at any given chance, and wont come when called - I am used to the lab mentality, a bit crazy, but she always returns when I call. I am in a delima as my husband is very concerned that this is not the dog for us - but I am always hopeful.  Any HONEST input (either way) would be greatly appreciated. He deserves a home that can love him as he is meant to be.  Thanks for your time.    Debby

Answer
Well, having a husky is an interesting commitment, and you can't guarantee anything.  However, if you change your expectations to fit a Siberian - a husky is a reasonable member of the family.  Not knowing the true heritage of the dog will make any assessment tough - and it will be day by day.  So, rule #1 - start training early, and stick with it.  There is a good chance that the dog will pick up some of the lab traits, but Rule #2 - expect nothing (that way you are always pleasantly surprised).

As for escape artists - you might get lucky in that not all huskies are like that - and the interbreeding might have helped that out too.  However, don't trust your dog off leash - ever.  It's too much a risk.  Beyond that, I think serious, hard core training might help out (it did with our dogs).  If you have some questions about where to go for good training, or ideas about it, feel free to write back.