Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are excellent with children and usually friendly to everyone, making them fantastic family dogs. However, this love of people means they are not natural guard dogs.

Because Siberian Huskies enjoy company so much, they should not be left alone for long periods. Otherwise, they may become destructive. Huskies are happiest when they're with their people—whether playing games in the backyard or going on outings with the family. And if it's cold and snowy outside, all the better!

This breed is typically good-natured and social towards other dogs but can be unpredictable with smaller pets. Huskies do also have the tendency to chase wildlife and, given the chance, would roam for hours. For these reasons, they should be in a fenced yard or on a leash when outdoors.

To meet their nutritional needs, you should feed Siberian Huskies a high-quality food that's appropriate for their life stage (e.g., puppy, adult, or senior).

For the working Siberian Husky, you should adjust diets seasonally: increase protein during the winter months when they're pulling sleds, and decrease it in the summer when they're not as active.

Because of their thick coats, it can be difficult to visually assess a Siberian Husky's body condition. To get a more accurate understanding, use your hands to feel along their rib cage. When at an appropriate weight, you should be able to easily feel the ribs. If you notice any weight gain, restrict calories until they return to an ideal weight.

Siberian Huskies are naturally clean dogs that don't require frequent bathing. Most of the year, brushing their coat once or twice a week will help keep it clean and healthy.

Twice a year, they will shed their undercoat. During these periods, more frequent brushing with a pin brush or metal comb will help remove the old coat. You can trim fur around the feet and toes to keep paws clean and tidy, but no other fur on the body should be trimmed.

A Siberian Husky's nails need to be cut regularly. Nails that get overly long can cause pain and potentially lead to problems running or walking.

Like all dog breeds, Siberian Huskies require regular dental care, including at-home teeth brushing and professional dental cleanings. Maintaining good dental hygiene is important for their overall long-term health, and the sooner you get them into a good dental care routine, the better.

To be happy, Siberian Huskies need lots of attention and physical exercise. They enjoy participating in dog sports such as sledding, skijoring (pulling a skier), and carting. You can also take them on daily long walks or, even better, long jogs.

When adequately exercised, Siberian Huskies are typically calm housemates. However, if they don't get enough physical activity they may turn to digging, chewing, or other undesirable behaviors.

Siberian Huskies are quite independent. So you should start training— firmly, consistently, and gently—from an early age. Reward-based training using small treats and favorite toys can help mitigate their stubborn tendencies.

Obedience training will also provide them with much-needed mental exercise.