Quote: tammy moore

I didn’t think she got the pup from an assistance dog organization, but this statement made me think it was possible that she plans on having a trainer work with the pup and child.

 Quote: barbara schuler

I asked about crate training and she said "The service dog folks suggested that but it seems so cruel...."

Did she get this husky from a breeder, or an impulse buy from a pet store?

Got it. I'm assuming when her son did have a service dog that was when she was told about using a crate.

I did not ask where she got the pup, but hope to be able to talk at greater length this coming week.

I sent you a PM, but I also wanted to post here for anyone who finds this one a search.

She will need to invest in a really good containment system. Your typical privacy fence or chain link, even with a hot wire or electric fence will not contain a husky hell bent on escaping..which is what they do best.

I also want to add my agreement with the difficulty in potty training.

Siberian huskies are independent, escape artists, and need a job (to pull, generally). That is part of the reason I went with the Alaskan husky instead. However, I've never found them to be aggressive, and many I know live with small children and are very gentle and good family dogs. I've even known many that were good off leash, and others that would be gone for days or weeks if let off leash.

We have a local organization around here, Boston Snow Dogs, that meets regularly for 'urban mushing' and is involved in re-homing siberian huskies. The people I know in this group are committed to keeping their husky's (or other arctic breeds) minds busy as well as allowing them to pull and run like they are supposed to. I think we have over 300 members now. A terrific group.

If there was a local 'urban mushing' club (maybe an online search?) this might help the owner meet up with knowledgeable husky owners who would help with all sort of aspects of owning a husky. Depending on the degree of disability, a disabled child might be able to 'drive' a cart behind the husky- with help and intensive training.

If she does decide to re-home (when the pup reaches the 3-6 month stage or so), send me a PM if you need links to some east coast rescues specializing in Siberians.

This breed may be a bad choice for a disabled child- but I'd argue that nearly any dog except a trained service dog (and then, apparently, even those didn't work out) might be. Also, I do know of at least two siberians trained in search and rescue. So, overall, I wouldn't dismiss the breed completely. I've seen them be great with small kids, and they are very affectionate to their people, but they also are quite independent. My roommate's siberian once barked at a moose for three days straight. But she was extremely sweet in the house, and good with other dogs and kids.

This situation is tough, but I think the puppy could work out as a pet, with a lot of work, and guidance from people familiar with the breed.

And like Jennifer said, containment is important.

Thank you Kiersten - great suggestion on linking her up with a local group if one exists. I'll check into that.


I'm printing out info on Marker training and will give her my clicker (I prefer voice) and loan her my dvd, also printing out stuff on housebreaking and CRATE training, as well as the exercise needs off the breed. I'm also going to point her toward Leerburg.

Thanks again.