The Vet’s Guide to Siberian Husky Dogs: Facts, Care, and Training Tips

Siberian Huskies are very popular breed, they are stunningly beautiful and at the same time —extremely energetic and friendly dogs. Developed to endure extreme conditions and haul sleds over long distances, these dogs do best with energetic people, able to accommodate their exercise requirements.

Background: Siberian huskies was originally bred by the Chukchi people of Northeast Asia at the (Chukokta Sea). This made them excellent working dogs able to endure considerable hardship and live in very cold climates. Huskies were brought to Alaska in the early 20th century and became famous for their life-saving mission during the 1925 serum run to Nome.

Appearance: One of the most recognisable features of the Siberian Husky is its wolf-like appearance, characterised by a thick, dense coat, upright triangular ears, and striking almond-shaped eyes. Their eyes can be blue, brown, or bi-coloured, adding to their unique and captivating look. Huskies often have distinctive facial markings with a mask-like pattern around the eyes, and their coat colours can range from black and white to grey, red, and pure white.

Physical Characteristics: Siberian Huskies are medium-sized dogs with a strong, athletic build. Males typically weigh between 20-27 kg and stand 53-60 cm tall, while females are slightly smaller, weighing between 16-23 kg and standing 50-56 cm tall. Their double-layered coat is designed to insulate them in cold temperatures, with a soft undercoat and a weather-resistant outer coat. Despite their muscular frame, Huskies are built for endurance rather than sheer power, allowing them to cover long distances at a steady pace.

Temperament: Siberian Huskies are known for their friendly and outgoing temperament. They are social dogs that enjoy the company of humans and other dogs, making them excellent companions for families and active households. However, they are also independent and can have a bit of a stubborn streak, meaning they require patient and consistent training. While Huskies are generally affectionate, they are not typically clingy and can be somewhat aloof at times. They are not overly protective, making them friendly to strangers, which means they may not be the best choice as a guard dog.

Activity Level: Huskies are highly energetic and need at least 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise daily. Long walks, runs, or dog sports are great ways to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Without sufficient exercise, Huskies can become bored and may resort to digging or escaping.

Health Considerations: Siberian Huskies are generally a healthy and resilient breed, but they are still prone to certain health issues, particularly genetic conditions. These include hip dysplasia, eye issues like cataracts and PRA, and hypothyroidism. Huskies may also have zinc sensitivity, which can lead to skin problems. Regular vet visits and preventive care are essential for managing these concerns.

Lifespan: Siberian Huskies have a typical lifespan of 12 to 15 years. They can live long, active lives with proper care, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary check-ups. Staying vigilant about their health ensures your Husky remains a happy and energetic companion for many years.

Siberian Huskies have a thick double coat that requires regular maintenance to keep them looking their best and to prevent skin issues. Proper grooming not only helps manage their shedding but also ensures their overall health and comfort. 

Grooming Requirements: Huskies shed year-round, but they "blow" their coat twice a year, typically in the spring and fall. Daily brushing is essential to manage loose fur and prevent mats during these heavy shedding periods. Outside these times, brushing once or twice a week with a slicker brush or undercoat rake is usually sufficient to keep their coat healthy and reduce shedding indoors.

Bathing: Huskies are naturally clean dogs and don’t require frequent bathing. Typically, they only need a bath every few months unless they get particularly dirty. When bathing your Husky, use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo to avoid stripping their coat of its natural oils.

Skin Care: Huskies generally have healthy skin, but they can be prone to zinc deficiency, which may cause hair loss or skin lesions. If you notice any signs of skin irritation, consult your vet about possible dietary adjustments or supplements. Regular brushing also stimulates their skin and helps distribute natural oils, keeping their coat shiny and healthy.

Dental Care: Like all dogs, Huskies benefit from regular dental care to prevent tartar buildup, bad breath, and gum disease. Aim to brush your Husky’s teeth at least two to three times a week using a dog-safe toothbrush and toothpaste. Dental chews can also help keep their teeth clean in between brushings.

Clean Ears: Huskies’ upright ears are prone to collecting dirt and debris, especially if they spend a long time outdoors. Cleaning their ears monthly using a vet-approved ear cleaner helps prevent infections. Also, check for redness, discharge, or an unpleasant odour, which could be signs of an ear infection that needs veterinary attention.

Nail Trimming: Due to their active nature, Huskies wear down their nails naturally, but they still need regular trimming. Check your Husky’s nails every 4-6 weeks, and trim them if they start to get too long. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and affect their gait, so keeping them at a manageable length is important for their overall well-being.

Siberian Huskies are generally a healthy and robust breed, but like all dogs, they are susceptible to certain health conditions. Awareness of these common issues can help you provide the best care for your Husky and ensure they lead a long and healthy life.

Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition that affects the hip joint, causing it to develop improperly. This can lead to pain, lameness, and eventually arthritis. While not as common in Huskies as in larger breeds, it can still occur. Maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise are essential for managing this condition. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required.

Eye Conditions: Huskies are prone to several genetic eye conditions, including cataracts and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Cataracts cause clouding of the eye's lens and can lead to impaired vision or blindness. PRA is a degenerative disease that affects the retina and also results in vision loss over time. Regular eye check-ups are crucial to catch and manage these conditions early, especially as your Husky ages.

Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms like weight gain, lethargy, hair loss, and skin issues. Once diagnosed, it is manageable and usually treated with daily medication. Regular blood tests can help monitor your Husky’s thyroid function.

Zinc Deficiency: Siberian Huskies are more susceptible than other breeds to zinc-responsive dermatosis, a condition where they don’t absorb enough zinc from their diet. This deficiency can cause hair loss, skin lesions, and scabbing, particularly around the face. Zinc supplements or a specialized diet can help manage this condition, so working closely with your vet is essential if symptoms arise.

Training a Siberian Husky can be both rewarding and challenging. Huskies are intelligent and quick learners but are also independent and often have their own agenda. The key to successfully training a Husky is patience, consistency, and making the training process fun for both you and your dog.

Positive Reinforcement: Huskies respond best to positive reinforcement, which means rewarding them for good behaviour rather than punishing them for mistakes. Treats, verbal praise, and playtime are all excellent incentives to encourage your Husky to follow commands. Keep training sessions short and fun, as Huskies can lose interest quickly if bored.

Using Treats and Incentives: Treats are a powerful motivator when training a Husky. Use small, high-value treats they only receive during training sessions to keep them focused and eager to learn. Start with basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” rewarding your Husky immediately when they follow the command correctly. Gradually phase out the treats as your dog becomes more consistent, but always continue to offer praise and encouragement.

Crate Training and Recall: Crate training can help teach your Husky boundaries and give them a safe space. It also aids with house training. Recall training is essential for Huskies, as they have a strong prey drive and are known for their tendency to run off. Teaching them to come when called may take time, but using treats and exciting rewards when they return to you can strengthen this crucial skill.

Keeping your Siberian Husky active is crucial to maintaining their physical and mental well-being. As a high-energy breed, they need plenty of opportunities to exercise and burn off their boundless energy. Regular, varied activities can prevent boredom and destructive behaviour.

Long Walks and Running: Siberian Huskies are natural endurance dogs bred to run for miles. Daily long walks or runs are essential for them. If you enjoy running, your Husky can be a great exercise companion. Just be mindful of the weather, as Huskies can overheat easily in warmer climates.

Fetch and Tug-of-War: Playing fetch is a fantastic way to engage your Husky's mind and body. Their natural prey drive makes chasing after a ball or toy an exciting challenge. Tug-of-war is another great game, allowing your dog to use their strength while building your bond.

Mental Stimulation and Puzzle Toys: Huskies need mental stimulation just as much as physical activity. Puzzle toys that challenge them to find hidden treats or solve simple problems are great ways to keep their sharp minds engaged. Rotate toys regularly to maintain their interest and prevent boredom.

Sledding and Agility Training: Huskies excel in activities that mimic their original purpose, such as sledding or agility courses. If you live in a cold climate, consider taking your Husky on recreational sledding or skijoring (where they pull a person on skis). Agility courses, with jumps, tunnels, and obstacles, also provide excellent mental and physical challenges.

Like any breed, Siberian Huskies can have their share of behavioural issues. These behaviours often stem from their high energy levels, intelligence, and independence. Understanding and addressing these issues early can help prevent them from becoming persistent problems.

Escape Artists: Huskies are notorious for their ability to escape from backyards, crates, or even houses. Their strong desire to explore and roam can lead them to dig under fences or jump over them. Ensuring your yard is secure with tall fences and digging barriers is essential to keep them safe at home.

Destructive Behaviour: Huskies can become destructive if they don’t receive enough exercise or mental stimulation. Chewing, digging, and tearing up furniture are common signs of a bored Husky. Providing them with plenty of toys, daily exercise, and activities like puzzle toys can help curb these destructive tendencies.

Excessive Howling: While Huskies are not big barkers, they are known for howling. This vocalisation is often used as a form of communication or to express boredom or anxiety. If your Husky’s howling becomes excessive, it could indicate that they need more exercise or interaction. Training them with positive reinforcement can help reduce unnecessary howling.

Separation Anxiety: Huskies are pack animals and don’t enjoy being left alone for long periods. They can develop separation anxiety, which can lead to destructive behaviour or excessive vocalisation when left alone. So, leaving them with toys or a comfortable crate can help ease their anxiety when you need to be away.

Vocalisation is a natural part of a Siberian Husky’s behaviour. Known for howling rather than barking, Huskies often use their voice to communicate with their owners, express boredom, or even talk back. While it can be endearing, excessive howling can become problematic.

Managing Excessive Howling: To effectively manage your Husky’s howling, it’s essential to address the root cause of the behaviour. Ensuring your dog gets enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention throughout the day can help reduce boredom-related howling.

Here are some tips for managing excessive vocalisation:

• Regular Exercise: Ensure your Husky gets enough daily exercise to tire them out physically. A well-exercised Husky is less likely to howl out of boredom.
  
  
• Mental Stimulation: Provide puzzle toys, training sessions, or interactive games to engage your dog’s mind and prevent boredom.
  
  
• Ignore Attention-Seeking Howling: Avoid responding immediately if your Husky is howling for attention. Reward them only when they are calm and quiet, reinforcing good behaviour.
  
  
• Desensitisation Training: Gradually get your Husky used to being alone by leaving for short periods and gradually increasing the time. Reward them for being quiet and calm when you return.

By combining proper exercise, training, and positive reinforcement, you can help control your Husky’s vocal behaviour while still allowing them to express themselves appropriately.

A well-balanced diet is essential for keeping your Siberian Husky healthy, energetic, and strong. Huskies are active dogs with high metabolisms, and their nutritional needs should reflect their energy levels, life stage, and any specific health considerations.

General Nutrition Needs: Siberian Huskies need a high-quality, protein-rich diet to support their muscles and active lifestyle. Look for dog food with real meat (like chicken, beef, or fish) as the primary ingredient. Since Huskies are efficient eaters, they don’t require as much food as other breeds of similar size. It’s essential to avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to obesity and related health issues, such as hip dysplasia.

Puppy Nutrition: Siberian Husky puppies require a nutrient-rich diet to support their rapid growth and development. Look for high-quality puppy food designed for large breeds, as it contains the right balance of calcium and phosphorus for proper bone growth. Puppies generally need three to four small meals daily until they are about six months old. After that, you can reduce the frequency to two meals per day.

Avoid feeding Husky puppies an adult dog diet too soon, as it may lack the essential nutrients they need for healthy development. Proper portion control is also key, as overfeeding can cause rapid weight gain, putting undue strain on their growing bones and joints.

Specific Nutritional Needs: Siberian Huskies have a unique sensitivity to zinc, and some may develop zinc-responsive dermatosis, a skin condition that can cause hair loss and irritation. Your vet may recommend a diet high in bioavailable zinc or zinc supplements for huskies with this condition.

Additionally, Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish oil, can help maintain your Husky’s coat and skin health. These fatty acids also provide anti-inflammatory benefits, which can be helpful for Huskies prone to joint issues or skin problems.

Whether you're already a proud Siberian Husky owner or considering welcoming one into your home, we hope this guide has offered helpful insights into their care and needs. While this is a solid foundation for understanding life with a Husky, it’s essential to keep learning from reputable sources. Connect with other Husky owners, share your experiences, and continue expanding your knowledge about their behaviour, care, and how to give them the best life possible.

This article was written by Dr Jack Ayerbe