Two years ago I went out and bought myself a husky puppy as my first dog to raise on my own. Huskies are cute, playful, social with people, and CRAZY. At about 6 months my husky was jumping our 6-foot fence daily, running amok in the neighborhood, getting picked up by animal control, and stealing food and toys from the neighbor's dog. We tried the whole invisible fence with radio collar, which did not work. He also wanted to be the Alpha dog in the house, always challenging the 6-year-old intact male that had lived there its whole life. There were some pretty nasty scuffles. He also had separation anxiety and was very destructive. Tore up carpet, linoleum, the couch, stuffed animals... etc, etc. The best thing I ever did for him was crate train him. Ever since then, he has been much easier to live with. I would also agree that these are very one-minded dogs... if they have something on their mind, it is very hard to interrupt them. They're not overly territorial dogs, not good guard dogs, and usually very good natured. As far as shedding... unless you've had one, you have no idea what it is like. They pretty much shed the whole year except for winter. I have a Furminator at home, and yes, it works wonders, but even after brushing him for over an hour with it, hair will still come off when you pet him. Just be ready to vacuum... a lot. He is not fond of getting wet or getting bathed, but he is not horrible about it. It's important that he trusts you and knows who's in charge. He is smart and an awesome dog... and I wouldn't trade him for anything.