Siberian Huskies are adorable puppies, but as they grow and their independent spirit emerges, unprepared owners may find them hard to handle. They were bred to think for themselves and make their own decisions. This was a benefit to the people who needed them to help travel across difficult and potentially dangerous terrain.

Siberians are active, and need lots of exercise, but that exercise must be in a fenced area or on a leash, as they will wander off if allowed to run loose. This is a trait of the breed, and no amount of training can make these dogs 100% reliable off-lead.

They are intelligent and need early obedience training and an owner who can offer positive reinforcement while the dog is learning the house rules. Since Siberian Huskies live an average of 12-15 years, it's important to have a dog that knows what is acceptable behaviour to keep everyone happy.

Siberians don't like to spend a lot of time alone. A bored or lonely Siberian can be a very destructive one, digging large holes in gardens or sofas. In "Snow Dogs," the main character learns this the hard way. He also learns that if you are not the boss, the Siberian will be. This is not movie fiction; this is a fact of life with an active, independent breed.

Siberian Huskies have a double coat and shed - A LOT! Potential owners should understand this, and decide if it's acceptable to them.

The breed is generally good with children and other dogs, but may not get along with cats and other small animals that run away when afraid. Think about what other pets currently share your home before adding a Siberian as a family member. The Siberian Husky is no more likely to bite than any other breed.

Like the dogs in "Snow Dogs," Siberian Huskies have a wonderful variety of coat and eye colours and markings, and no one is more correct or more desirable than any other. This is a breed where "form follows function." What that means is that there are no incorrect colours or markings, nor are there any colours or markings that are considered "better" than any other.

People interested in buying a Siberian puppy should look for a reputable breeder who does screening of hips and eyes before breeding. Breeders who can show certifications on both the sire and the dam have the health of the animals they produce, as well as the health of the breed, first and foremost in their priorities.

Animal rights groups may talk about alleged "cruelty" in making Siberians pull sleds. Quite the opposite is true. Siberians do love to pull in harness just like Labrador Retrievers like to fetch tennis balls -- it's the history of the breed. Rough handling is neither tolerated nor necessary among the serious dog sled enthusiasts.