The Siberian Husky breed originated more than 3,000 years ago as
a sled dog used by the Chukchi people of the eastern Siberian
Peninsula in northeast Asia. The Chukchi selected medium-sized
dogs with the endurance and desire to run for hours in the cold,
hauling light loads over long distances. In the early 20th
century, some Chukchi dogs were imported to Alaska for use in
sled racing. Soon after the famous 1925 relay of sled dog teams
that carried serum to fight a diphtheria epidemic, Chukchi dogs
were recognized by the American Kennel Club as Siberian Huskies.
Although Siberian Huskies were used by the Chukchi as working
dogs, they were also family dogs. The Chukchi brought them into
their homes and encouraged their children to play with them.
Today, Siberian Huskies are typically gentle with humans,
including children, and are equally cordial with other dogs. If
attacked by another dog, however, they will fight back
aggressively. Siberians also have a strong predatory instinct,
and may chase small animals