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is it right for me?

20 9:16:59

Question
Hi there Faye.  I have a questions about the breed as a whole being right for me.  I have read meny sites and works but still want to talk to an actual owner.  You see I want a dog that can enjoy the outdoors with me.  I hike, cross country ski, snowshoe, run alot, and all other sorts of activities that involve the outdoors.  I have been thinking how I would love to have a dog companion for these activities.  My questions are how would this breed handle being kenneled every weekday while im at work.  They would get plenty of exersice during the day still, but be alone for alot of it as well.  how do they handle heat and how stubborn and tough are they to have as a real companion.  Can you ever take them off lead and let them roam on a walk?  

Thank you and hope to hear from you soon.  

Answer
Dear Nolan,
Yes you have done well to ask these questions to some one who knows.Too many people find things out much later about these guys and wish they hadn't.
Your sporting lifestyle sounds great surely one a husky would enjoy,but ask yourself while you do all these activities are you prepared to have your dogs leash in your hand the whole time?Well you see the big problem with these dogs is that you just can't let them run free and expect them to come to you unfailingly when you call.So thats the first hurdle.
As for kenneling them they seem to take to it readily enough and my 4 have so much fun there that they do not seem to fret for me at all.So i really have no qualms with kenneling provided they get plenty of exercise as these guys can get fat quite easily,and the supervision is good as they really are escape artists and mischeif makers.I take mine 150 miles out of my way sometimes to kennel them with people i trust.
As for the heat well you have asked the right person.We frequently experience temps around 110F or so during summer,and you really have to be careful with these guys.No exercise if the temp climbs too high.After 60F no heavy exercise at all,so one must be careful,you can risk the dog having muscle melt down.
As for their attitude well they can be exceedingly stubborn,and fight you all the way.You really must prove to them that you are worthy to be the leader and at times this is no easy task.
I hope i have helped you decide,but remember a husky is not the dog for the faint hearted,but once you know one,no other breed of dog will ever suffice.
Good luck Faye and Husky Crew.