A neighbor has a Siberian Husky. She is one year old and out of control. The "handler" said she's never had a dog before and can't afford a trainer. I told her I'm not a professional but that I could probably help her a little.

I've heard Huskys are a little more difficult to train in obedience than, let's say, a GSD, which make us look brilliant. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

I'd appreciate any tips or pointers with working with this breed. Thanks. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Well - obedience training a Siberian is gonna make you appreciate your GSD. Keep in mind that different lines of Siberians be quite different in "trainability" levels. Also keep in mind that this is a breed that has had 3,000 years of development in running AWAY fom you- come on recall can be a bit of a stretch. Most Sibes are a little more impulsive and you will probably never have the off leash obedience of a GSD. They are very social dogs and they are generally pretty easy to houstrain and teach manners. You have to be firm and consistent from the begining just as any other dog. Keep lessons short and positive and keep in mind that they are a breed with a high energy level and a somewhat shorter attention span - generally a sedate walk on a leash isn't going to be enough to keep them manageable. They don't have a lot of prey drive toward toys but have a ton of prey drive for cats, chickens. Most "out-of-control" pet huskies have been let away with murder, taught no limits and boundaries as to what is acceptable, and contained in less than satisfactory methods.
Most people bitch because they pull on leash, run away, chase and hunt inappropriatly and dig holes.
I don't have much sympathy for dough heads that buy a high energy working dog "because they are so pretty- we wanted one with blue eyes"- and then can't handle the consequences. If your neighbour isn't willing to fence her yard, kennel the dog correctly and work within the limits and abilities of the breed - she should not have a husky. (I am a little touch on this matter - GRRR)
On a lighter note if you go to a group training class with a siberian stay away from the class with all the GSD, Golden Retreivers and Shelties- you will receive looks of pity and some trainers wont take sibes.
I went to a class with 2 chows, a sharpei, a chow cross and a beagle - Man! we looked REAL good! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

Thanks Lynn. It sounds like great advice. I'll be sure to share it with my neighbor. Thanks again. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />