It’s wise when researching a new dog to understand whether it is known for any aggressive tendencies. Particularly if you have a family. All dogs are not equal, at least when it comes to temperament and there are some breeds that have a ‘better’ disposition with regard to its social skills.
Do Siberian Huskies attack humans? Siberian Huskies do not usually attack humans. Yes, there are always exceptions but the Husky typically has a very friendly temperament around people. It should not become aggressive unless provoked.
Therefore, however ‘safe’ the particular breed of dog is believed to be – you should not leave children alone with them. That said, some breeds are by far less aggressive than others, so let’s take a look at the Siberian Husky.
How Dangerous is the Siberian Husky?
The Siberian Husky is not usually considered a dangerous dog around humans. All dogs (like us) are different though but what tends to determine their adult personality the most is how well they were socialized when young.
It is a critical part of the Husky training that they are introduced to as many different people and as many different types of other pets (particularly cats) at an early age, under controlled conditions.
Performing this socialization at this age will mean they are less likely to be frightened (and therefore become aggressive) with other people and animals, later in life. The problem is, of course, if you purchase a Husky that isn’t a tiny puppy – you really don’t know if this important phase has taken place.
So, we can say that the Siberian Husky isn’t usually dangerous to us humans. However, the same can’t be said for its treatment of other animals! The Husky has a very high prey-drive, regardless of socialization. Yes, this can help but it can not eliminate the natural instinct of this dog.
Many families have reported long lives where a Husky has lived in perfect harmony with their pet cat (or cats) all their lives. So, yes – there can be exceptions. However, other families have reported that their Husky lived with no problems with their cat until it didn’t.
One day, without warning and for whatever reason, they Husky sees the cat as prey and the consequences are not nice.
Siberian Husky Temperament
The Siberian Husky is considered a very friendly, sociable breed of dog with little aggressive tendencies towards people. They are a breed that is unique in many ways and requires much from their owner. The Husky could be described as adventurous, playful and sociable.
If you know anything about this breed then you will be aware of their ability to run fast and for long periods of time. Actually, I’d probably go further than that and say it’s more of a requirement to do this.
You see, the Siberian Husky needs to be exercised, a lot. After all, this was what they were designed to do (and did) for many centuries, living in their natural Siberian habitat.
The Husky will want to spend time with you and your family. In fact, they thrive off it. They might not always be curled up on the couch next to you (although there is a good chance that will happen) but they will want to be in the same room as you. So, if you’re there – they will want to be there with you.
The Siberian Husky will experience separation anxiety in a very short amount of time without you. Leave them alone, locked up in your home for more than an hour or so and a destructive personality may emerge.
This will result in you coming home to anything that is in reach of its somewhat sharp teeth, chewed. Doors, couch, remote controls, slippers – all chewed. And with dribble on them.
But, don’t for a second be fooled into thinking that the above means that they need you. The Husky spent generations fending for itself in the harsh Siberian weather and given an opportunity, you should not be surprised if it runs off! Which is why you must always use a leash, but more on that below…
Are Siberian Huskies Safe With Children?
No dog, regardless of how well they have been socialized or how ‘good’ they appear to be, should be left alone with children. Of course, that’s a sweeping statement and a Yorkshire Terrier isn’t going to pose much of a threat to a 15-year-old!
However, you can never assume a dog will behave the same as it behaved the last time it did something.
I think it’s important to mention here that in the same way that a dog needs to go through socialization and training when young, a child needs to be shown how to act around dogs.
It is not the most intelligent of things to do for a child to run up to a dog with their face a couple of inches away from the dogs, moving around rapidly, talking loudly and ‘ruffing’ the dog up. It’s hardly surprising that the animal may become confused, scared and think there is a threat in this scenario.
Of course, if it was to bite, it would be the dog that would be punished. I’m constantly amazed by the number of parents who think this behavior is acceptable.
So, with the above rant finished – the Siberian Husky is usually great in a family environment. The Husky loves the attention and interaction (if performed in the right way) that it gets from children. Arguably, there is no better dog to have around children (properly supervised) than the Husky!
Of course, all dogs can bite from time to time – it’s a big subject so I’ve given it a whole article. If you’re interested, do take a look here (opens in a new tab).
Can You Let a Siberian Husky off a Leash?
Yes, you can let a Husky off its leash but you should not! Ever. I mentioned above that the Siberian Husky has a high prey drive and this will be at its most obvious when you’re out with them exercising.
The Husky may be absolutely fine for ages, until just that one time. That one time where it catches sight of some small animal. Whether that animal is a little mouse or a cat, it may see it as prey – and it will be off.
Don’t think that by calling its name it will pay any attention to you – it won’t. The only thing it will be thinking of is catching the prey and (most likely) destroying it.
Before you know it, a few minutes have past and your precious Husky is in the next field, still trying to find it. It is usually at this point that you wish you had a dog locator – too late.
This is why considerate owners of the Husky always use a leash. It doesn’t have to be a short one, you can still give them plenty of freedom with an extendable one – but they must be attached to one. Also, attached to a leash or not – when it sees ‘prey’ and runs after it you won’t want a small child holding that leash as they will not be able to restrain them.
How Do You Know If Your Siberian Husky Is Safe?
The very simple answer is you don’t. Of course, many owners will think I’m stupid saying this and that their Husky is ‘different’ in some way. The truth is that the Siberian Husky is usually a fantastic pet, awesome for the family and can bring you many, many years of happiness. However, you should never become complacent and/or lazy.