The individuality and charisma of huskies seems to be as diverse as their array of coat colors. When someone asks me to describe them I mentally sift through a list of adjectives to find something truly fitting. I have yet to come up with a witty and encompassing description, and all I have managed so far is to spew out a handful of confusing oxymorons.
“Well, they’re loyal, but they run off if they get loose.”
“They’re friendly but independent.”
“Huskies are so smart….but so stubborn.”
“It’s like Sherlock Holmes and the Incredible Hulk in one.” (Two characters I adore by the way.)
Quite frankly, huskies are an enigma. And for this reason I adore them and relish their complexity. I love mysteries, puzzles, unpredictability, and a healthy dose of chaos. I’ve heard it said that people take on the personalities of their dogs, or vice versa. I think more likely we seek out our kindred spirit. If you’re a husky person you know it. If you’re not then you find yourself with an overwhelming challenge on your hands.
I won’t pretend for an instant that I know the tendencies of all breeds, and as I’m still figuring out the psychology of huskies I’m not about to go pro on others. But experience speaks for a lot, and having raised quite a few huskies, I’ve seen just about every wily and belligerent move they can make, as well as their unfettered passion for living, loving, and adventure.
Now how do I magnificently convey this…?
I come across a lot of ‘Before you get a husky, watch this – or read this!’ warnings on the internet. Then they go on to show you how destructive huskies can be, how much fur comes off when they blow their coat, etc. etc. etc. I’m sure the creator has the best intentions of warning the uninformed husky puppy shopper, but there is something upsetting about the lop-sided and disparaging portrayal of a breed which I can only assume the creator or owner actually loves. And which I love. Show the good stuff too please!
What I love are stories – shared experiences between dog and owner which demonstrate the dynamic and strength of their bond, their trials, challenges, and how life can be so much more…. um, interesting… with a husky, or any dog for that matter.
So I’m going to share my stories in upcoming posts, and I would love to hear from others, though I don’t have many readers yet… But even if you come across this article years from now please chime in. I’ll still be around. 😊