Is the Siberian Husky the Right Dog for You?


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A siberian husky laying in the park
via @java.the.husky

The Siberian Husky has won over plenty of dog lovers with their striking looks and playful nature. These medium-large working dogs are known for their endurance and personality.

Siberian Huskies were originally bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia as sled dogs. They can make very loyal companions, but their background as working dogs means they need plenty of stimulation and exercise. They’re also very clever and do best with experienced and active pet parents.

In this guide, we’ll outline the Siberian Husky’s key traits, exercise needs, and more so you can decide if this breed fits your lifestyle. Read on to get to know these remarkable dogs and find out whether one might make a good match for you!

Breed Characteristics

Key

  • Low
  • Medium
  • High
  • Origin: Russia
  • Size:
  • Weight: 35 to 60 pounds
  • Activity level:
  • Barking/howling level:
  • Good with dogs: yes
  • Good with kids: yes
  • Good with strangers: yes
  • Good with cats:
  • Shedding:
  • Shedding: Seasonal
  • Hair type: Double Coat
  • Grooming level:
  • Training level:
  • Escape artist: yes

How Are Siberian Husky as Pets?

Siberian Huskies are friendly, playful, and sometimes mischievous dogs. They thrive on social interaction and love when you include them in family activities. However, this welcoming nature means Siberian Huskies don’t make the best guard dogs. Generally speaking, they’d much prefer to befriend a stranger, not scare them away.

Here are some key Siberian Husky traits to consider if you’re thinking about welcoming one into your family.

Siberian Huskies are lively dogs who have plenty of energy. They enjoy being around people and get along well with kids and strangers.

However, they’re also independent and tend to have a mind of their own, according to Kristen Adams, an American Kennel Club Breeder of Merit and co-owner of Polaire Siberians. This independence means a Husky can get into trouble if their physical and mental needs go unmet.

Behavior and personality

Due to their agility and athleticism, Siberian Huskies are known for being escape artists. But proper fencing helps keep them safe from climbing, digging, and jumping over boundaries, says breeder Megan Terella, co-owner of Snoebear Siberians. 

For safety reasons, Terella advises against letting a Siberian Husky off the leash. “The best sled dogs display leadership and an ability to think for themselves, which can get the average pet into trouble when allowed to roam freely.”

Life with a Husky can also be quite noisy! Siberians are a vocal breed, and you can expect more than just barking—these dogs tend to howl or “scream” when excited.

Training and proper socialization can help reduce excessive noise, Terrela says. “But remember, no training or conditioning will fully keep a Siberian from ‘singing the song of their people’ as we call it.”

Siberians have a gentle disposition and rarely show aggression. But they’re also very strong dogs, and this means they may not make the best walking companions for very young children, older adults, or people with mobility issues.

Sociability and energy levels

Siberian Huskies are lively dogs who love to socialize with people and other playful pups.  

“Siberians are pack dogs by nature and thrive in multiples,” Terella says. If you’re considering getting two Huskies, she advises starting with one and allowing both the dog and your family to adjust before introducing a second dog.

Just keep in mind that having multiple dogs doesn’t mean you need to give them less attention.

“Dogs are not babysitters for each other,” Terella emphasizes.

As star athletes of the dog world, Siberian Huskies have high levels of endurance and stamina. If you add one to your family, you’ll need to make time every day for activities like running, hiking, and playing. Frequent physical exercise is vital for these dogs’ well-being.

Don’t overlook mental stimulation, either! Huskies are intelligent dogs and require challenges to keep their minds sharp and content.

Terella says Siberian Huskies may resort to creative but potentially destructive ways to entertain themselves if they don’t get enough physical and mental stimulation.

Trainability

Siberian Huskies are intelligent, strong-willed, and full of energy—a combination that can make training challenging. While they can grasp commands quickly, you’ll need to motivate them with lots of high-value treats.

These good-natured dogs can be a handful if you’re not paying attention. Huskies are known escape artists who tend to bolt through open doors, so teaching them to mind boundaries is key. You’ll also want to work on a solid recall for their safety. And since they’re naturally curious dogs, Siberians benefit from practicing a “leave it” cue.

Digging is also instinctive in this breed. You can manage this by providing plenty of exercise and engaging toys to redirect their energy.

To build a healthy relationship, Terella recommends taking basic obedience lessons with your Husky. She also notes that crate training puppies can help prevent containment anxiety as they grow into adults. 

Exercise

These spirited dogs need at least one to two hours of exercise daily. Originally bred as sled dogs, Huskies flourish in activities that let them run and explore, such as:

You can also incorporate puzzle toys and interactive play into their routine to keep them engaged. 

Companionship and lifestyle

Siberian Huskies have an affectionate nature and tend to form strong bonds with their families. They can experience separation anxiety, though, and they don’t do well when left alone for long periods. Ideally, someone should be home to keep them company.

While they might not be the best fit for first-time dog parents, Terella says Siberian Huskies can make the perfect companions for active households who can make regular opportunities for physical activity, like walks, runs, or hikes.

Huskies can adapt to apartment living, provided they receive plenty of exercise. However, their tendency to howl may cause issues in an apartment setting, especially if you have close neighbors. Ideally, they would have a securely fenced outdoor space where they can run and play.

It’s also important to consider your climate. Their thick double coats allow them to withstand cold temperatures, but in warmer climates, it’s vital to make sure they don’t overheat and have opportunities to cool down.

What Types of Siberian Husky Are There?

Though they bear a striking resemblance to each other, Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Huskies are two distinct breeds. Siberian Huskies have become common household pets, but Alaskan Huskies are primarily working dogs. They have a leaner build than Siberians and an even stronger desire to run. 

Siberian Huskies boast a wide array of coat colors, including classic black and white, gray and white, copper-red and white, and pure white. Rarer coats like the “agouti” resemble a wild wolf’s fur. 

Huskies are also known for their unique eye colors, which can be brown, blue, or a mix of both—a condition known as heterochromia.

Nose colors typically match the coat: gray Huskies have black noses, while copper ones sport pinkish noses. Some Siberians may develop a “snow nose” in winter. This lightening of pigmentation is acceptable in the show ring. 

These medium-sized dogs are 19 to 24 inches tall and weigh between 35 and 60 pounds.

A Siberian Husky on a cliff, hiking.
via @bymysibe

Is It Easy to Groom a Siberian Husky?

Huskies have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming. During shedding season, you’ll find yourself brushing daily, sometimes even twice a day, to manage all that fur! Outside of shedding periods, weekly brushing is enough to keep their coat healthy. 

According to breeder Kristen Adams, it’s important never to shave a Siberian Husky. Their double coat is designed to insulate them and protect against extreme cold and heat. Shaving can damage the coat and disrupt its ability to regulate their body temperature.

Fortunately, Huskies tend to be fastidious self-groomers and have minimal doggy odor. This means you won’t need to give them a bath often—a few times a year is typically enough, unless they’re getting ready for a show. 

And as with all dogs, regular nail trimming is important to keep them comfortable and prevent foot problems.

What Is a Siberian Husky’s Life Expectancy?

On average, Siberian Huskies live between 12 to 15 years. They’re a relatively healthy breed, Adams says.

But, like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Common conditions to note include:

Fortunately, most of these issues can be treated with medication and supplements, Adams says, adding that many affected dogs can still live happy lives.

For safe and healthy development, Adams advises against intense, high-impact activities until their growth plates have closed. This happens around the age of 2 years. She also recommends seeking out a breeder who conducts health testing. 

Feeding your Siberian Husky high-quality dog food fuels their adventures and helps them maintain a healthy coat. Depending on their activity level, your vet may also recommend a high-protein diet.

Take care to monitor your Husky’s food intake and weight at their annual vet visits to help them avoid obesity, which can become a concern if they eat too much and don’t get enough activity.

How to Ethically Buy or Adopt a Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies usually cost between $600 and a few thousand dollars. If you’re interested in this breed, here are some avenues to consider:

Rescuing a Siberian Husky

Some people find they can’t keep up with Husky’s high energy levels and activity needs and must voluntarily surrender them. This means adoption can be an excellent option if you’d like to add a Siberian Husky to your family.

Consider reaching out to Husky-specific rescue organizations, which you can find all over the country.

Adopting from a rescue is more affordable than purchasing a dog from a breeder. Plus, many shelter dogs already come vaccinated and spayed or neutered.

Vetting breeders

To ensure you’re supporting ethical breeding practices, it’s essential to recognize the signs of puppy mills and scams. Always research and ask for references before committing financially to a breeder. 

Adams suggests visiting the AKC parent club site for a list of recommended breeders.

To identify an ethical breeder, Adams recommends looking for the following: 

  • Health testing: Ethical breeders will conduct health testing and openly share those results. They’ll also be happy to introduce you to the puppy’s parents and siblings and explain any health issues in their lineage. 
  • Involvement in competitions: Participating in dog shows, sled races, and other similar events demonstrates that the dogs have the correct structure, work ethic, and temperament expected for the breed. 
  • Membership in breed clubs: This shows the breeder isn’t just interested in selling puppies but in preserving, protecting, and promoting their beloved breed.
  • Lifetime support: If, for any reason, you can no longer care for the dog, an ethical breeder will take the dog back—no questions asked. They genuinely care for the dogs they breed and do not want them to end up in a shelter or poorly prepared home.

Finally, your breeder should offer open and transparent communication. This means they’ll gladly answer any questions you have about the breed—and they’ll usually have plenty of questions for you! They’ll want to make sure you understand the significant responsibility of raising a Siberian Husky and that your home will be a good fit.

Trust your instincts. If anything feels off with a possible breeder, it’s best to continue your search elsewhere.

Other Breeds to Consider

If you love the Siberian Husky but think they may not make the best fit for your family, you might consider one of these breeds instead: 

  • Malamute: They still need a lot of exercise, but Malamutes tend to be slightly more reserved and calmer than Siberian Huskies. 
  • Australian Shepherd: Another high-energy working dog, Aussies are generally less vocal than Siberian Huskies. 
  • Pomsky: A fun and energetic hybrid, the Pomsky combines a Siberian Husky’s friendly nature with the Pomeranian’s compact frame. 
  • Shiba Inu: This Spitz breed is smaller than Siberian Huskies and tends to be more independent and reserved. 
  • German Shepherd: These large and active dogs love their families but are wary around strangers. This makes them good watch dogs. 

Takeaway

Beloved for their loyal and affectionate natures, Siberian Huskies can make incredible companions for those who can keep up with their unique needs.

Before making the commitment to a Husky, it’s essential to make sure your lifestyle aligns with theirs. With the right care, these affectionate dogs will keep you entertained for years to come!

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Liz Coleman

Liz Coleman

Liz is a freelance writer with a focus on pets and their fur-covered folk. She’s also a member of the Cat Writer’s Association, and her work appears in several pet publications. She shares her home in Western New York with two cats, two birds, and (arguably) too many plants.