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Huskita |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
Siberia <> Japan -> U.S.A. | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen | |
This breed is also known as |
Siberian Akita |
A brief presentation of the Huskita |
| Huskitas are a specific cross between two ancient dog breeds: the Siberian Husky and the Akita Inu. As such, they inherit the qualities of both breeds. In general, however, they are known to be loyal like their Akita Inu parent and active like their Siberian Husky parent. Huskitas have an average lifespan of 10 to 13 years, weigh 22.5 to 35 kilos and stand 56 to 63.5 centimeters tall. Their rough, dense coat varies from short to medium length, and comes in various color combinations, masks and markings common to both parent breeds. Huskitas are a common hybrid that has probably been bred since the late 1900s, when Siberian Huskies and Akita Inu were relatively popular in the USA. Yet Huskita standards have not stabilized, and the breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club's list of thoroughbreds. |
History of the Huskita |
| The name Huskita is a combination of the names of the dog's two parent breeds: the Siberian Husky and the Akita Inu. There is no known date of origin for the Huskita, although it is likely that Akita Inu and Siberian Husky mated in the late 1900s. As Huskitas are not recognized by the AKC, breeders should be thoroughly researched if you intend to buy a Huskita. |
A little of the Siberian Husky |
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| The Siberian Husky has been used as a sled dog, guard dog and reindeer herder for centuries by the Chukchi tribe. They were perfectly suited to the job, as they could withstand the elements. The breed originated in Siberia and was later brought to Alaska by fur traders. There, they took part in Arctic Malamute races, where they excelled due to their speed. In 1908, these dogs took part in the All-Alaskan Sweepstakes, a 250-kilometer race by dog sled. In Nome, Alaska, there was a diphtheria epidemic in 1925. This event was the reason why the Siberian Husky became so popular, as it was recognized after carrying medicine to the people. They were also used in Admiral Byrd's Antarctic expeditions throughout the 1900s. These dogs were also used in the army's Arctic Search and Rescue unit during the Second World War. | ||
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| Standard of the Siberian Husky | ||
A little of the Akita Inu |
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| The Akita Inu originates from the Odate region of Japan. They were originally used in Japan to hunt mammals such as elk, wild boar and small bears. They have a long history of being highly prized in Japan. Even today, Akita Inu are considered spiritual symbols of protection, health, happiness and longevity. In 1931, the Akita Inu was designated one of Japan's national treasures. American historical figure Helen Keller is credited with bringing the first Akita Inu to North America. Legend has it that she was in love with the famous Akita Inu named Haichiko, who met his owner at a train station every evening after work. The owner died one day at work and didn't return on the train, nevertheless, Haichiko continued to visit the station every day for the next ten years, waiting for her owner to come home. The Akita Inu gained in popularity over the following decades in the USA and was recognized by the AKC in 1972. | ||
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| Standard of the Akita Inu |
Appearance of the Huskita |
| Huskitas are longer than they are tall, with a muscular build. They reach a height of 56 to 63.5 centimeters and a weight of 22.5 to 35 kilos. This breed has a broad chest, arched neck and powerful fore and hind legs. Their distinctive ears are triangular, erect and sit high on the head. Huskitas also have a short to medium-length double coat, with a straight, rough texture. These coats come in plain variations or multicolored combinations of white, black, gray, red, sable, agouti, brown, fawn and silver. There's also the option of a black and/or white pinto mask, as well as black and/or white markings. Huskitas have a soft, dense undercoat that falls almost completely during the warmer seasons. Overall, these dogs have a friendly, inquisitive expression that is emphasized by their wedge-shaped eyes and thick eyebrows. They also have medium-sized oval feet that are heavily padded for outdoor activities. |
Temperament of the Huskita |
| Huskitas are highly energetic and alert pets. They like to be active and are hyper-sensitive to their environment. Too many changes at once can cause anxiety and exacerbate this breed's sometimes aggressive temperament. These dogs do best when they're busy and have a consistent daily schedule. Huskitas are also very loyal and protective animals. They demonstrate their loyalty by showing affection and submitting to their owners. By nature, however, Huskitas appreciate independence. Unlike companion dogs or Retriever breeds, Huskitas don't need constant attention or care if they get enough exercise. Consequently, Huskitas may be wary of strangers and other dogs, especially pups, at first. Owners can encourage their Huskitas to be friendly by socializing them from an early age. Nevertheless, Huskitas are friendly and playful if they're in a comfortable, familiar environment. What's more, this breed is highly intelligent and easy to train, making it an excellent option for new dog owners. |
Needs and activities of the Huskita |
| Huskitas have above-average energy levels and need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They love long runs and hikes, and should get around 45 to 90 minutes of such exercise every day. Huskitas thrive in suburban or rural areas where they have access to plenty of space. Huskitas can acclimatize to any climate, but prefer cooler temperatures due to their thick coats. What's more, this breed has a strong impulse to wander, so it's essential to keep Huskitas in fenced areas. It's important to note that affection and quality time indoors are also important for this breed's mental and emotional health. |
Maintenance of the Huskita |
| Huskitas are not hypoallergenic dogs and are therefore not suitable for owners suffering from allergies. Their rough coats don't require much grooming. However, they do shed a lot, especially during seasonal changes, and have a strong tendency to drool. Owners can reduce uncontrollable shedding by brushing their pet with a firm bristle brush on a weekly basis. What's more, this outdoor dog only needs to be bathed occasionally. However, Huskitas need their ears checked regularly for wax build-up and nails trimmed once or twice a month to avoid painful proliferation or nail separation. Like all breeds, Huskitas need their teeth brushed daily. |
English (United Kingdom)