Siberian Husky: A brief guide to what new owners need to know!

Huskies exhibit a unique blend of strength and gentle temperament, often associated with snow-sledding, but they have gained immense popularity as beloved pets globally, including in the United States. These dogs attract people not only with their attractive looks but also with their charming personality. Their intelligence and boundless energy make them ideal companions for outdoor walks and play.

However, is the Siberian Husky the perfect fit for your family? Continue reading to find out valuable information about the breed and essential dog care tips for these magnificent companions.

Siberian Husky: Characteristics

Here is some information about the Siberian Husky characteristics:

Physical appearance

The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized working sled dog breed that belongs to the Spitz genetic family. It has a thickly furred double coat, erect triangular ears, and distinctive markings, and is smaller than the similar-looking Alaskan Malamute. The coat can be of any color, from black to pure white, often with a striking facial mask. The eyes can be either brown or blue, or sometimes one of each. The tail is bushy and carried over the back in a sickle shape. The Siberian Husky stands 20 to 24 inches (51 to 61 cm) tall at the withers and weighs 35 to 60 pounds (16 to 27 kg).

Personality and behavior

The Siberian Husky is an active, energetic, and resilient breed that was originally bred to pull sleds in harsh Arctic conditions. It is loyal, outgoing, and mischievous, with a keen but amiable and even playful expression. The breed is noted for its intelligence and a gentle temperament. It is friendly with people and other dogs, but can be independent and stubborn at times.

It needs at least one to two hours of exercise daily, preferably involving pulling or running activities. It can be extremely clever about escaping, so a secure yard is required. It also tends to roam and chase small animals, so it should not be left off-leash unless in a safe area. The breed relishes cold weather and is prone to overheating in hot conditions. The Siberian Husky is naturally clean, with little doggy odor.

Lifespan

Twelve to fourteen years is the normal Siberian Husky life span. Hip dysplasia, cataracts, glaucoma, corneal dystrophy, hypothyroidism, zinc deficiency and follicular dysplasia are known breed health concerns. Siberian Huskies need frequent veterinarian checkups and immunizations and a portion of high-quality food for their age and activity level to be healthy. During shedding season, the breed may require daily brushing, so groom it weekly.

Also check: Redbone Coonhound: A brief guide to what new owners need to know!

How can I train a Siberian Husky?

Training a Siberian Husky can be both a challenging and rewarding endeavor. Siberian Huskies are known for their intelligence, independence, and boundless energy, which necessitate specific approaches to training. Here are some valuable tips on how to train a Siberian Husky:

1. Establish Leadership

Siberian Huskies are pack-oriented dogs, and they may test your authority. Demonstrating confidence and dominance is essential. Eat before your dog, lead through doorways, ensure your husky yields to your space, and address any aggressive or destructive behavior. Use a firm, consistent voice when giving commands and rewards.

2. Positive Reinforcement

Reward good behavior with treats, praise, and affection. Quick and consistent rewards help your husky understand desired behavior. Reinforce commands, calmness, and good behavior with positivity.

3. Crate Training

Crate training provides a secure space for your husky and simplifies transportation. Introduce the crate gradually, making it inviting with toys, blankets, and treats. Praise your husky for entering. Never use the crate as punishment or leave your husky in it excessively.

4. Socialization

Huskies are friendly dogs that thrive on interaction with people and other dogs. Regular socialization prevents fear or aggression. Expose your husky to various situations, environments, sounds, and animals early on, and reward calm and confident behavior.

5. Exercise

Huskies are bred for endurance and need daily exercise to release their energy. Provide 1-2 hours of physical activity, which can include running, pulling activities, walks, hikes, and playtime. Consider engaging them in dog sports like agility or obedience.

6. Mental Stimulation

Huskies are highly intelligent and can become bored easily. Offer toys, puzzles, games, and training sessions that challenge their minds. Mental stimulation helps prevent destructive behavior.

7. Patience and Consistency

Training a Siberian Husky is a gradual process that demands patience and consistency. Avoid expecting immediate obedience and steer clear of harsh or negative methods. Focus on building trust and respect through positive reinforcement and clear communication.

Also Check: Black Labradors: A brief guide to what new owners need to know!

Siberian Husky health issues

Siberian Huskies are generally considered healthy dogs, and maintaining their well-being involves a balanced diet and appropriate exercise. They may have inherited health concerns like many breeds. Know these common health issues:

1. Hip Dysplasia: This condition arises when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to mobility problems and pain.
2. Eye Issues: Siberian Huskies can experience various eye problems, including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and corneal dystrophy, which can affect their vision.
3. Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid glands fail to produce sufficient hormones, potentially resulting in various health problems.
4. Von Willebrand’s Disease: This is a bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency in the protein necessary for blood clotting.
5. Pemphigus Foliaceus: An autoimmune skin disease that typically emerges around four years old and can lead to hair loss on the ears, nose, and footpads.
6. Epilepsy: This inherited condition may manifest between three months and three years of age, resulting in seizures.

Also Check: Bad breath in dogs: Is it a sign of illness?

How to adopt or buy a Siberian Husky

If you want to adopt or purchase a Siberian Husky, you have various options. These search options may help:

1. Utilize online adoption platforms like Petfinder or Adopt-a-Pet to search for available Siberian Huskies in your area. These websites offer filters for breed, age, size, gender, and location, providing you with contact information for the shelters or rescue groups handling the adoptions.
2. Visit your local animal shelter or humane organization to ask about adoptable Siberian Huskies. Dog listings are updated on their website and social media. Remember that Huskies may not be as common in local shelters.
3. Contact breed-specific rescue organizations dedicated to Siberian Huskies, such as Free Spirit Siberian Rescue, MaPaw Siberian Husky Rescue, or Forever Husky. These groups specialize in rescuing and rehoming Huskies and may offer a wider selection of dogs. They often provide detailed information about the dogs’ health, temperament, and background.
4. Buy a Siberian Husky from a breeder? Visit the Siberian Husky Club of America’s website for a list of trustworthy breeders. Search online for local breeders, but check their credentials and reputation. Before buying, visit the breeder’s facilities, see the parents and pups, and check their breeding strategies.
5. Reach out to your network of friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, and acquaintances. Inquire if anyone knows of Siberian Huskies available for sale or adoption. You might be pleasantly surprised to discover someone who is seeking a new home for their Husky or who has connections to those looking to rehome their dogs. This approach can also provide you with valuable personal references and insights into the dog and its current owner.

Buying or adopting a dog is a big decision, so take your time, do your research, and put the dog first. Make sure the dog’s health, temperament, and history match your lifestyle before adopting or buying.

FAQ

Why is Husky so expensive?

Huskies are popular, therefore costs might rise. The average Siberian husky costs $750 to $6,000. Not only this, breeders tabulate the cost of your dog even before it’s born. They can spend many thousands of dollars to produce a healthy husky puppy.

Is a husky a friendly dog?

Siberian Huskies are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They are social dogs that enjoy interacting with people and other dogs. However, their friendliness is often accompanied by independence and a strong hunting instinct, which can sometimes be misinterpreted as less friendly behavior. Your Husky will be a handful if they are left confined all day or not given proper attention.

Is a husky a wolf or a dog?

Siberian Huskies are domesticated dogs, not wolves. They look like wolves and have a similar coat color, but Huskies are a different dog breed with their own characteristics, behaviors, and genetic makeup.

Over the years, huskies have been bred for sledding and friendship. The AKC and SHCA recognize them as a breed. Despite their wolf-like appearance, Huskies have been domesticated and are suitable as family pets. Respect them and provide them proper care, training and socialization.