Siberian Husky Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Siberian Husky is an athletic, friendly sled dog with a thick double coat, upright ears and often striking blue or mismatched eyes. It was bred to pull light loads over long distances in the cold, and it is a demanding but rewarding breed for the right home.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed with the Chukchi people of northeastern Siberia and reached Alaska in the early twentieth century, where it took part in sled races and relays. Huskies are medium-sized and athletic, with a wedge-shaped head, erect ears, a dense coat in many colors and markings and a brush-like tail carried in a sickle curve.

Temperament

They are friendly, outgoing and mischievous. They are usually good with children and other dogs, though they have a strong prey drive and may chase small animals. They are independent and stubborn. They are vocal, with howls rather than barks. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need extensive daily exercise, often two hours or more, such as running, hiking, biking or pulling sports. Without enough, they can become destructive. They need a very secure yard, since many dig under or climb over fences.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use positive methods, patience and early socialization. Do not expect a reliable off-lead recall. Sled and pulling sports give an outlet. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The double coat sheds heavily, with a major blowout once or twice a year, and needs brushing several times a week. See double coat dog grooming guide. Do not shave the coat. Trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Hereditary eye conditions, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Skin conditions, including zinc-responsive dermatosis
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Heat stress. See heatstroke in dogs
• Laryngeal paralysis in some older dogs

Living with a Siberian Husky

They suit very active owners with a secure yard and a sense of humor. They do best with company and a job. They are poorly suited to apartments, hot climates or owners wanting an obedient dog.

A typical day

A Husky wants a vigorous morning run, training or puzzle games, a rest and an evening outing. Many are calm indoors only after real exercise.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy, mouthy and destructive. Begin socialization, handling and training. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, grooming tools, secure fencing and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They love cold weather but overheat easily. Exercise early or late in warm weather, provide shade and water, and never leave a Husky in a parked car. They travel well with a secure crate.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include trusting the dog off lead, shaving the coat, underexercising and keeping the dog in an unsecured yard.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about eye and hip screening, the parents' temperaments and whether the dogs are from working, show or pet lines. Many Huskies are available through rescue.

Why Huskies run

Huskies were bred to run long distances at a steady trot with a team. Their stamina is remarkable, and a loose Husky can cover miles in minutes. This is why secure fencing and a long line are essential, and why a jogging or biking companion suits the breed.

The talkative breed

Huskies are known for howls, yips and "woo-woo" sounds. They often respond to sirens or other dogs. Training can make noise manageable, but owners should expect conversation from this breed.

Daily care checklist

• A vigorous run or long outing.
• Brushing, daily during shedding seasons.
• Training or puzzle games.
• A check of fences and gates.
• Fresh water, shade and company.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Siberian Husky suits active owners who want a friendly, athletic, independent dog and accept shedding, noise and escape attempts. It may not suit sedentary households or hot climates. For a larger sled dog, see the Alaskan Malamute.

The takeaway

Siberian Huskies are friendly, athletic and independent, and they need exercise, secure fencing and grooming.