Photo credits from left: @white.husky_blue, @saiko_thesiberian, @thefloofygoofys on Instagram.
Siberian Husky
A complete breed guide for Siberian Husky Dogs
This article is written by Pet Circle veterinarian,
This working Arctic breed is a gentle, social and intelligent dog who loves the company of others. They are known to have a stubborn streak so require firm and consistent training from puppyhood.
Contents:
1. Husky Facts
2. History
3. Personality
4. Diet
5. Health Issues
6. Related Breeds
Siberian Husky Facts
| Breed size: | Place of origin: | Intelligence |
| Medium | Russia | Moderate |
| Breed group: | Energy level: | Weight range: |
| Working / Spitz | High | Females 15-23kg, Males 20-27kg |
| Life expectancy: | Tendency to bark: | Height range: |
| 12 - 15 years | High | Females 50-56cm, Males 53-58cm at shoulder |
| Drool factor: | Coat tyype: | Colours: |
| Low | Thick, dense double coat, medium-long | Range from light grey with shadings to black, sable, and red |
| Shedding factor: | Overall grooming needs: | Ease of Training: |
| High | Moderate | Moderate-High |
How big do Siberian Huskies get?Siberian Huskies are compact and agile and are classed as medium breed dogs. Males typically stand at 53-58 cm and weigh 20-27 kg and females measure 50-55.8 cm and 15-23 kg |
Do Siberian Huskies shed?Huskies are a high hair shedding breed. They have a thick double coat which consists of an undercoat and outer guard hair. The undercoat is shed usually twice per year along with big season changes and the rest of the fur sheds continually. Grooming should be done a few times a week with extra grooming during shedding season. For Huskies, we recommend a slicker brush and an undercoat rake, and consider a deshedding brush too! |
How much does a Siberian Husky cost?The average price range for a purebred Husky puppy is $1000-$3000. Siberian Huskies can cost anywhere from $500 at a Husky rescue to $3000 from a registered breeder. It is always worth checking a rescue organisation first - not only will this likely be cheaper than purchasing a dog from a breeder, but you will be saving a life! Husky rescues in Australia include Arctic Rescue Victoria, Siberian Huskies Rehoming Aid Australia (AMRAA), Husky & Malamute Rescue WA (HAMR) and the Siberian Husky and Siberian Huskies Rescue of Queensland (SHAMROQ). |
Are Siberian Huskies good pets?Siberian Huskies are pack dogs at heart so they thrive in company. They are loving and playful making them great pets for active families. They are intelligent but can also be stubborn so require early socialisation and training. They also have a strong prey drive so can be prone to chasing cats and livestock. |
How long do Siberian Huskies live?The Siberian Huskies lifespan is 12-15 years. As with any breed, they will live much longer if you feed them a premium quality diet, never let them become overweight, and keep their teeth in top condition! |
Do Siberian Huskies bark a lot?Siberian Huskies do not bark a lot, but they can be vocal in other ways. They will happily 'talk' and howl like their wolf ancestors, and make their characteristic 'woo woo' calls at you. A group of Huskies will howl in concert with their heads tilted to the sky, which is a mystifying and beautiful thing to behold. Any excessive barking is unusual and should be addressed, as it may be a sign your Husky is bored, anxious, or not getting enough exercise. |
How do I choose a Siberian Husky breeder?There are some important things to consider when trying to find and choose a breeder. There is the option of adopting from a shelter or alternatively searching for a registered breeder who is a member of the Australian National Kennel Council and has their own breeder registration number. Have a look at the following article for more tips on finding a reputable breeder - Guide to Finding a Good Breeder for more tips. |
How much exercise do Siberian Huskies need?As Huskies are part of the working group of dogs they are highly active and need a lot of exercise. They love to run and are happiest when they have "tasks" to perform. On average 2 hours of exercise per day is needed to keep Huskies physically and mentally satisfied. |
Siberian Husky History
Left to right: Chukchi man feeding Chukotka sled dogs (Siberian Huskies) from dogsledding team in 1901 (Bogoras Waldemar, Wikipedia commons), sled dog Balto with Gunnar Kaasen who together worked a sled team to delivered diphtheria antitoxin to Nome, Alaska in 1925 (Wikipedia Commons), and the first ever dog sled race, from Nome to Candle (Primitivedogs).
The breed's ancestors originate from the Chukchi people (indigenous Siberians) more than 3000 years ago. The Chukchi natives needed dogs capable of pulling loads over snow that were also able to handle the harsh sub-zero temperatures. They bred their dogs for endurance as well as for companionship.
In the 1900's the Siberian Husky started gaining attention when they began winning sled races and as a result a vast number were imported to Alaska. They attained even more popularity in 1925 when a team of Siberian Husky sled dogs transported life-saving serum over 1000 km to the City of Nome during an outbreak of diphtheria. This heroic act is now famously referred to as the "Great Race of Mercy '' and the lead sled dog, Balto, is immortalised as a statue in central park New York.
Interestingly, the Siberian Husky was trained to pull small loads at faster speeds, whereas Alaskan Malamutes were designed to pull heavy loads on sleds at a slow pace. It is said that 'Huskies are racers; Malamutes are freighters.'1
Today the Husky is mainly a beloved member of the family but many are still being used as sled dogs in parts of North America, albeit mainly for sport and leisure. 2
Siberian Husky Personality
Photo credits: @saiko_thesiberian and @unorthodox.kid
Huskies are fun loving and energetic dogs. They can be independent but they also thrive on the companionship of other dogs and people. As working dogs they love to be active and running is a favourite pastime for them. Because of their arctic roots they can be prone to dig, especially in warm weather as they try to create a cool place to lay. They are not huge barkers but do have a tendency to howl when bored. They do well with children but can be hit and miss with cats and other small animals. They can be quite stubborn so can be a challenge to novice dog owners but will do well with early socialisation and consistent training.
Siberian Huskies are not recommended for first time dog owners. They have a pack mentality and can be very strong-willed and stubborn. They are an incredibly clever breed which means they can be bored easily and require lots of mental stimulation. These traits, when combined with their physical strength, can lead to a lot of problem behaviours such as leash-pulling, chewing, and digging - particulary as puppies.
Huskies should be socialised early and extensively. Their instinct is to be wary of new or unfamiliar dogs and animals, and so they should be kept under close control and supervision until they are fully trained and socialised.
Obedience training is essential. The Siberian Husky's independent temperament, extreme intelligence and strong dominance mean that training and socialisation must start as young as possible. It is essential that you establish yourself as the pack leader very early and maintain consistency. This doesn't mean you must practice harsh discipline - just ensure you exert calm assertive energy and maintain consistent rules. It can help to crate train your Husky.
Top toy recommendations for Siberian Huskies
Huskies have a reputation for being toy destroyers so their toys should be durable and tough enough to withstand their strong jaws. As a highly energetic and intelligent breed, toys that tire them out both mentally and physically will help to keep them entertained!
These nylon bones come in a range of delectable flavour and withstand hours of intense chewing. Go large or mega for maximum durability.
Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Puzzle
The Dog Brick is a puzzle feeder for dogs that can be used with treats, wet food or dry kibble.
Made from the most durable KONG rubber, the KONG Extreme can be filled with treats, paste, kibble or even frozen stock to prolong play time. Choose XL or XXL for power chewers.
Paws for Life
Snuffle Puzzle Mat
Hide some of your dog's kibble or treats in the nooks and crannies to keep their mind busy and occupied.
Siberian Husky Diet and Nutrition
Photo credit: @life.with.sedna from Instagram
Siberian Huskies Puppies
Siberian Husky puppies should eat a premium that is nutritionally formulated to meet AAFCO Guidelines until they are 12 months of age. Premium diets are scientifically-formulated that contain balanced levels of protein, fat and carbohydrate plus vitamins, minerals and antioxidants for health and wellbeing. You may consider a Rotation Diet to provide exposure to different proteins and reduce the risk of food sensitivities.
As Huskies can be prone to hip dysplasia it is important not to overfeed your puppy as excess weight can worsen the condition.
Huskies can vary in their adult weight and may fall into the medium breed category (10kg-25kg) or the large breed category (25kg-45kg).The best way to tell how big your puppy will grow is to take a look at their parents - in general, puppies will be approximately the average weight of their parents.
Raw diets for Siberian Huskies? Raw diets are not suitable or safe for Husky puppies due to the risk of bacterial contamination, which can lead to food poisoning and upset their sensitive tummies. Plus, an unbalanced diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Read more about Raw Diets: The Risks and Benefits.
When should you transition an Siberian Husky from puppy to adult food?
As a general guide, Huskies can usually be transitioned from a 'puppy' food to an 'adult' food at around 12 months of age. This does, however, vary depending on your dog's body condition score - if your pup is underweight, they may require a puppy food for a little longer. Likewise, if they're starting to show a bit of 'pudge', it may be time for a lower-in-calories 'Adult' diet.
Top food recommendations for Siberian Huskies Puppies
This formula is fortified with nutrients to support Huskies bone and joint health, it also has an adapted protein content and l-carnitine for healthy muscle development.
This specialised blend is tailored to improve your Husky puppy's health and wellbeing by promoting strong joints and a healthy immune system, a healthy heart and a strong skin barrier.
Made with Australian grass-fed lamb, rich in iron and vitamin B12 for strong bone and muscle development and rice and oats for sustained energy ideal for Husky puppies.
This medium breed formula is easily digested and contains precisely balanced levels of protein, fat, carbohydrate, vitamins and minerals to promote healthy growth and development.
Want to know more? Check out our article:Â What is the best puppy food?
What to feed an Adult Husky?
Although there are no specific feeding requirements for a Huskies, their diet needs to be age-appropriate and meet all of their daily nutritional and energy demands. Most adult maintenance foods from premium brands are suitable but there is also a great range of medium breed foods that are suitable.
This specialised blend is tailored to improve your dogs health and wellbeing by promoting strong joints and a healthy immune system in your pet through enriching ingredients.
Royal Canin Medium Adult is enriched with omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and a shiny coat and combines a unique kibble texture and exclusive flavours.
This formula is easily digested and contains high quality protein along with precisely balanced levels of fat, carbohydrate, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants for longevity, health and wellbeing.
This Australian made, grain free kibble contains highly palatable salmon and ocean fish, combined with omega 3 fatty acids, antioxidants and, glucosamine and chondroitin.
Siberian Husky Health Problems
The Siberian Husky breed as a whole is typically quite healthy however they can be prone to cataracts and mobility issues.
Cataracts
Approximately 10% of Huskies will be affected by cataracts. Cataracts are a cloudy change in the lens of the eye which, in its advanced stages, leads to vision loss. Luckily, many breeders are screening their breeding stock for this problem so it's hoped that this condition will become less frequent in the breed.
Hip dysplasia
The term 'dysplasia' means abnormal growth, therefore 'hip dysplasia' means abnormal growth or development of the hips. The condition is primarily genetic in origin. The degree of hip dysplasia will vary between dogs due to a combination of factors such as body weight, nutrition, hormonal factors and other environmental considerations such as exercise. It's important to note that the inheritance of the gene is not simple, and breeding dogs with 'normal' hips can give rise to offspring with dysplastic hips and vice versa.
How to prevent hip dysplasia? Responsible breeders will ensure their breeding stock is tested prior to breeding. Since 2016, the Australian National Kennel Council Ltd (ANKC) have been responsible for the Canine Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Scheme (CHEDS) which is weighted towards secondary joint changes associated with hip dysplasia.
Read more about the condition, prevention, and treatment in our article: Hip Dysplasia in Dogs
GDV or "Bloat" - Gastric Dilation and Volvulus
Bloat is a life-threatening condition whereby the stomach stretches many times its normal size and in many cases twists and rotates, cutting off its own blood supply. The spleen is usually an innocent bystander that gets pulled into the rotation, also compromising its blood supply. This condition is common in deep-chested breeds like the Dobermann. The main signs to look out for are sudden onset of abdominal distension, distress, anxiety, pain (such as panting, guarding the belly), drooling and multiple unproductive attempts to vomit. What should you do in this situation? Transport them to a veterinary hospital or emergency clinic immediately where urgent treatment and surgery is required. Do not attempt to give anything by mouth.
In breeds with a high risk of bloat, a preventative surgery called a prophylactic gastropexy can be performed at the same time as desexing. The surgery involves securing the stomach to the inside of the abdomen to prevent it rotating. For more information about bloat and preventative surgery, we recommend speaking with your regular veterinarian.
Find out more about this deadly condition in our guide to GDV And Bloat in Dogs
Degenerative Polyneuropathy
Degenerative polyneuropathy (also called Idiopathic polyneuropathy or Siberian Huskies Polyneuropathy) is an inherited disease of the peripheral nerves. Sypmtoms can include progressive paralysis of certain parts of the body. It is believed to be genetic in nature and ineherited from the breeding line. Dogs with this condition may show a lack of coordination, difficulty getting up, or stumbling while carrying out daily activities. It is not necessarily painful, but dogs are rather weak. Unfortunately, the condition can not be treated or cured, however physical therapy can help preserve muscle mass and a healthy weight can lessen the severity.
Arthritis
Arthritis, scientifically referred to as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, is a degenerative, progressive, and irreversible condition of the joints. While some degree of inflammation does occur, arthritis in dogs is also characterised by a loss of the cartilage (the soft structural component that overlies and protects the bone) and the formation of 'osteophytes' which are new pieces of bone laid down in an effort to protect the joint surface. Keeping your Husky at a healthy weight will help to prevent development or worsening of this issue.
Read more about arthritis in our guide to Arthritis Care for Dogs
Top health products and supplement recommendations for Siberian Huskies:
Glyde is a joint supplement containing New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel which is rich in omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals to help reduce joint inflammation. It helps prevent joint pain and can even improve the coat quality.
Contains Epitalis, a unique plant oil extract combined with marine concentrates including green lipped mussel, shark cartilage and abalone to target joint inflammation. It is and safe to give long term.
Eating rapidly is a risk factor for the development of bloat. Anti gulping bowls help to slow down the rate of food intake and minimise excessive air intake during feeding.
With 20 billion good bacteria and 5 digestive enzymes and green banana powder, this can improve digestion, support the immune system, and help assist absorption of nutrients.
Related Breeds to the Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is part of the Working breed dog group, of the Spitz type. It is the native Russian breed of spitz, cousin to the Samoyed of Russia, Alaskan Malamute, and the Eskimo dogs of Greenland and Labrador. In 2015, a study using several genetic markers indicated that the Malamute, the Siberian Husky, and the Alaskan husky share a close genetic relationship between each other and were related to Chukotka sled dogs from Siberia. They were found to be genetically separate from the two Inuit dogs, the Canadian Eskimo Dog and the Greenland Dog.3
When discussing related breeds, it is also important to mention breed crosses or 'designer breeds' that are emerging. Like many breeds, the Siberian Husky has been crossed with others to yield different designer crosses - the most popular and famous of which is the Pomsky.
@charlieboymalamute
Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute and Husky are closely related and are often mistaken for the same breed. Malamutes are however more sturdy and larger than Huskies. For more information, check out our Alaskan Malamute Breed Guide.
Samoyed
The Samoyed is a medium-sized Spitz breed originating from Russia. It tends to grow to be 16-27kg in weight and 46-56cm in height. They are very fluffy and sport a thick, white double coat and a curled tail, just like many spitz breeds.
@chia.wildstare
Canadian Eskimo Dog
The Canadian Eskimo Dog (also called the Canadian Inuit Dog) is another Working breed originating from the Arctic. This breed is very rare and threatened with extinction, with a 2008 estimate of only 300 purebred dogs. Like other spitz breeds, it has erect, triangular ears, and it carries its heavily feathered tail over its back. The breed has a stronger prey drive than other breeds, as they were accustomed to forraging and hunting for their own food while out working with sleds.
@dex.the.pomsky
Pomeranian x Husky, ie the 'Pomsky'
The Husky-Pomeranian mix must be one of the most popular designer breeds on social media. They contain the 'floof' typical of both breeds and tend to be a small-medium size as expected of cross between a toy and medium breed.
@kimheartlandequestrian
Husky X Alaskan Malamute, ie the 'Alusky'
The Husky-Alaskan Malamute mix is becoming a popular designer crossbreed. Aluskies are said to be the ideal pet for those who want the Husky's playful side with the Mal's large size and majestic nature.
Further Reading
Complete Beginner's Guide To Puppy Care
5 Facts To Know About Parvovirus
Which Flea and Worming Product Does YOUR Dog Need?
Want to know more? Check out our Discover Page for more tips from our expert vets on keeping your pets happy and healthy.
Sources
1. Siberian Huskies. American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/alaskan-malamute/
2. Siberian Huskies. 2020. Burke's Backyard. https://www.burkesbackyard.com.au/fact-sheets/pets/pets-pet-care-native-animals/alaskan-malamute
3. Brown, S K; Darwent, C M; Wictum, E J; Sacks, B N (2015). "Using multiple markers to elucidate the ancient, historical and modern relationships among North American Arctic dog breeds". Heredity. 115 (6): 488â95.