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Believed to have descended from the Chukchi sled dogs of the Siberian Arctic, which had bred true for 3,000 years, these quick dogs were used to haul sleds and herd reindeer. They were able to travel great distances and work for long periods on little food. In the winter of 1925, a team driven by Gunnar Kassen gained international prominence as the heroes who delivered serum that averted a diphtheria epidemic in Nome, Alaska. A statue of the lead dog, Balto, commemorating this run, now stands in Central Park, N.Y. The Siberian is an alert, lightfooted spitz breed with an off-standing coat. Males must weigh no more than 60 pounds, females no more than 50. The coat is thick, soft, medium-long, and double-layered in all colors, including white. It sheds heavily a couple of times a year and needs brushing about three times a week. When the Siberian is alert, it carries its tail over its back, but it trails it behind when relaxed. The Siberian prefers the outdoors, is friendly with dogs and people, and needs lots of exercise, preferably with active children or adults who can keep up with it. It's a wanderer, so a fenced yard and a leash are musts.

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