There’s no doubt that Huskies are amazing dogs — they’re beautiful, intelligent, loyal, and spirited. But, they can also be a lot of work and are not for the novice dog owner. If you’re thinking of adopting a Siberian Husky, it’s important to make sure you are up for the challenge. Here’s what every potential Husky owner needs to know.
1. Huskies Are High Energy
Huskies are a high-energy breed that need lots of exercise — much more than your average dog. As an Arctic working breed, Siberian Huskies were bred for extraordinary endurance. They can pull sleds for hours over miles of rugged, frozen landscapes. A simple walk around the block just won’t do it for this breed. Most Huskies need at least two hours of exercise a day, or else they may become anxious, bored, and destructive.
If you have an active lifestyle and will enjoy spending lots of time running, walking, hiking, and playing fetch — then, a Husky just might be your perfect match. On the other hand, if you are not very active, have mobility restrictions, or have time constraints that won’t allow for enough exercise, you may be better off with a less active breed.
2. Huskies Can Be Loud
The signature Husky howl — it’s one of their most endearing qualities (or annoying, depending on who you ask). Yes, Huskies can be loud. They are known to howl or “sing” quite frequently to communicate with their pack, which nowadays mostly means their humans. While most Husky owners love this about them, sometimes their neighbors don’t enjoy being serenaded quite as much. If you have thin walls or very close neighbors such as in an apartment setting, you may want to think twice before bringing home a Husky.
3. Huskies Shed a Lot
Siberian Huskies have a thick, double coat made to withstand harsh, snowy conditions. This means they shed — A LOT! Having a Husky in your home will require some daily brushing and cleaning of dog hair. Investing in some good dog brushes, lint rollers, and high-powered vacuums are must-have tools of the trade for Husky owners.
While cleaning up dog hair isn't that big of a deal, some owners find high-shedding dogs like Huskies to be difficult, especially if anyone in the home suffers from allergies. It’s important to take this into consideration before adopting a Husky.
4. Huskies Don’t Do Well in the Heat
It’s no secret that Huskies were built for cold weather. Their bodies and fur are all tailored to icy, Arctic climates. While this doesn't mean they have to exclusively live in cold regions, it does mean they don’t do well in the heat.
If you live in a hot, humid tropical region like Florida or a dry, scorching desert like Arizona, caring for a Husky will come with some extra precautions. Keep in mind it can be difficult to give them enough exercise outside, especially during the summer. Some Husky owners in warmer climates commit to early morning or late-night runs, swimming pools, treadmills, and indoor doggie daycare centers to fulfill their dog’s exercise needs.
5. They Are Master Escape Artists
Siberian Huskies are smart, social, energetic, and can get bored easily — all of which can spell disaster when left alone. Unfortunately, Huskies are among the top breeds known for running away. Doors, fences, and even locked gates are usually no match for a Husky. They are notorious for finding ways to slip out of seemingly impossible to escape from situations by digging, climbing, and jumping.
To keep your Husky from pulling a Houdini, you’ll need to make sure they are well exercised, have enough social interactions, and aren’t left alone in the backyard. Huskies find it hard to resist an adventure, and if left alone for too long, they’ll often go looking for one. It’s also important to take preventative steps like making sure your Husky has ID tags, a microchip, and perhaps even a GPS collar to ensure a prompt return if they do wander off.
6. Huskies Are Very Social
Huskies are highly social dogs; they were bred to live in packs, so they do best when they have other dogs or humans around. They can be prone to separation anxiety when left alone, especially if they aren't getting enough attention or exercise regularly.
If your work or lifestyle requires long hours away from home or lots of travel, a Husky may not be the best breed for you. To help combat loneliness and separation anxiety, some Husky owners find that utilizing dog walkers and doggie daycare services can help provide much-needed social interactions and exercise.
7. Huskies Are High-Maintenance
Huskies are amazing dogs, but they are not right for everyone. Between their energy levels, social needs, shedding, and howling — Huskies are a high-maintenance breed. If you have your heart set on a Husky, it’s important to fully understand the needs of the breed.
Sadly, it’s not uncommon for Huskies to be rehomed due to inexperienced owners who weren't equipped to meet their needs. Shelters and rescues across the country are full of Huskies who were relinquished simply for displaying their natural behavior.
Potential Husky owners should ensure they are willing and able to provide the level of attention and exercise that these dogs need. Of course, you’ll also need to be ok with some fur flying around the house and impromptu opera performances — it’s a Husky owner’s rite of passage!
FAQs
Q: Given Huskies' high energy and exercise needs, what specific activities or exercises are recommended to keep them engaged and prevent boredom?
A: Engaging Huskies in activities like sled pulling in winter, agility training, long-distance running, and interactive play with toys can effectively meet their exercise needs and prevent boredom.
Q: How can a prospective Husky owner prepare their home and yard to prevent escapes, considering their reputation as master escape artists?
A: To prevent escapes, reinforce fences with deep foundations to deter digging, ensure gates are securely locked, and consider higher barriers to prevent jumping.
Q: Considering Huskies' social nature, how do they typically get along with other pets, especially non-canine animals, in a household?
A: Huskies generally get along well with other dogs but might chase smaller pets due to their prey drive. Proper introduction and socialization are key to fostering a peaceful coexistence.
