What

What's the Difference?

Racing Dogs

Over time, and due to the interests of the individuals involved with the breed, the purebred Siberian has "split" into two particular types of dogs. There are those whose ancestors come from predominantly conformation-oriented lines (show lines), and those who come from predominantly racing-oriented lines. At Tasman, we have both types of Siberians, and there is a distinctive difference.

Lily & Miles

Above is Lily and Miles. Lily is pictured in the front, Miles is in the back. Lily and Miles are both Racing Siberian Huskies, that is, their background is based entirely in racing lines, such as Lokiboden and Igloo Pak. Because their ancestors for several generations have been bred primarily for speed in sled dog racing, little emphasis has been placed on appearance. Because of this, many Racing Siberians have light to no coloring (i.e. they're pure white), and lack the more symmetrical markings that typify most Siberians from conformation lines. They are lighter in bone and often leggier in build. They also tend to have less coat. Pictured below are Joplin (left) and Betty (right). Notice Joplin's color, Agouti, which is another common color among racing dogs.

Show Dogs

Show puppies Kayak

These puppies shown above as you can see, have symmetrical markings, and are solid black and white, red and white and gray and white - versus Lily and Miles for example whose black and white splashed coat is less typical. These puppies ancestry is based heavily in conformation lines. Because many of the dogs in their background have been bred predominantly for the show ring, they maintain many of the more classic Siberian traits that one thinks of when they picture the breed. These puppies will have more bone than Lily and Miles and their legs will be more in proportion to their body than those on the leggier Racing Siberians. They also have a thicker coat. Also pictured above is Kayak. Notice the pretty, expressive head that is more commonly found in show dog lines. It is important to remember that although the difference between these two types of Siberian comes from the intent and focus of those who bred them, both are equally capable of doing the job that the Siberian Husky was originally bred for - Running In Harness!