Yochon vs Sakhalin Husky - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Known also as the Karafuto-Ken, the Sakhalin Husky is a dog that has been used as a sled dog, but which is now almost extinct.

Hailing from Japan, it is believed that in 2011, there were only two surviving members of the breed in Japan. There isn’t much history on these dogs, but we do know that it is an old breed. They've been used by explorers to the South Pole. One such explorer was Robert Falcon Scott.

They’re extremely tough dogs, known for enduring in the snow under extreme conditions. The dog breed isn’t recognized as a standardized breed by any of the major kennel clubs.

The Yochon is a “designer dog” – a cross between the Yorkshire Terrier and the Bichon Frise. They are not a purebred and are not recognized by purebred dog clubs such as the American Kennel Club (AKC). They are small, playful, families dogs. Most of them bear the best characteristics of each of their founding breeds, but because they are crossbreeds and most will be multi-generational cross breeds, there are no two dogs alike. Though not recognized by the traditional purebred clubs they are recognized by several hybrid canine clubs. The cross was developed in the United States.

This is a medium sized dog standing at between 56 and 66cm in height and weighing between 30 and 40kg. His coat is thick and can be in a number of colours such as brown, tan, cream, grey or black. The ears are small and pointed and slightly tilted forwards. The tail is long and sometimes curls over the back while at other times it is held straight or down.

Temperament:

These dogs are known for their loyalty, affection and bravery. The dog is highly intelligent and will respond well to training and socialization.

It's a rare dog breed, calm and confident. A perfect example of their amazing characteristics is seen in the film ‘Eight Below’ where these wonderful dogs were left behind on a scientific expedition that went wrong.

The dogs had to struggle for survival in the frozen wilderness. The Sakhalin Husky just wants to please, and is alert and intelligent, doing well in a family where there are children.

Statues have been erected to honor these Sakhalin Huskies who died on some of these ill-fated expeditions.

These dogs are totally devoted to their owners and they’re full of confidence, they’ve got immense strength and they need a lot of physical stimulation every day.

Yochons go by many different names but in general they are toy dogs, weighing in at under 20 pounds, most weighing 6-12 pounds. They have black noses, long tails, and round eyes. Their muzzles are blunt and their skulls are also round. They have fluffy, full coats that can range from tan, to brown to black. They can also be white or cream. Their ears can be either hanging or erect.

When you bring these dogs into your home, you’re bringing in lots of excellent characteristics.

He is loyal, affectionate and smart. With his above average intelligence, you can easily train him. He is also a playful breed and the kids will enjoy him as a good playmate.

They’re gentle dogs too and will do well in a home where people are fair, patient, kind and consistent with their handling of him. Known to be an excellent therapy dog, having this dog in your home will enhance your quality of life.

1 Children friendliness -yes very good but watch careful that children do not hurt them as they are so small and fragile. 2.Special talents – Loves families and playing 3.Adaptability – adapts well to apartments can play indoors 4.Learning ability – intelligent and independent

The brave Sakhalin Husky can live to be between 12 and 14 years of age but these dogs can succumb to quite a few of the common dog diseases there are -

Corneal Dystrophy:

This is a hereditary disease of the cornea. You’ll see small white dots in his cornea and the dog can experience hazy vision.

Hip Dysplasia:

This problem with the hips can be debilitating for your sled dog, and both hips can be affected. It can be painful for your dog as arthritis sets in. It is important to see that your dogs don’t put on weight as this puts pressure on the joints. Your dog will need to see the vet, and surgery might be a treatment option.

Follicular Dysplasia:

This is a condition that affects Huskies between 3 and 4 months of age and can result in hair loss or problems with the skin. It is actually fairly rare in dogs and diagnosed by microscopic examination of the hair shaft. You will need to get your pet to the vet because it can lead to alopecia.

Both founding breeds are vulnerable to a few medical conditions. These include: • Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease – insufficient blood to hind legs, thigh bones causing lameness. • Patellar Luxation – slipped kneecaps can also cause lameness. • Dental Issues – keep teeth brushed and cleaned. • Hypothyroidism – can be treated with medication. • Reverse Sneezing • Allergies • Collapsed Trachea due to small size – be careful with them at all times.

Diet:

Feed your Sakhalin Husky a commercially manufactured dog formula that caters to his energy and digestive needs.

Choose high-quality dog food with natural ingredients. Try and include some home-made food into your dogs diet. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta, sweet potatoes, carrots and spinach will do him wonders and you can chop it up and add some into the dry kibble as a treat twice a week.

Some raw meat occasionally is also important to prevent skin problems. Be sure that cool, fresh water is available for your pet at all times.

Exercise:

This will require regular exercise. Walks are always good, but he will require something more hectic such as long hikes and frisbee or ball throwing games.

Grooming:

A Husky’s dense double-coat must be brushed at least twice a week as he is a fairly heavy shedder.

His nails grow quickly and these will need to be trimmed. Even though he has erect ears, you will need to check inside for cleanliness to avoid canine ear infections.

Check inside his mouth as well for bad teeth as these can have a detrimental affect on his health

3.Feeding the puppy – do not overfeed. Use a high quality puppy toy breed kibble. Feed 3-4 X day. 2.Feeding the adult – do not overfeed. Use a high quality adult toy breed kibble. Feed at least twice a day. 3.Points for Good Health hearty/general good health and stamina 4. Games and Exercises does not need a lot of exercise . They enjoy obedience and agility trials.