With a thick coat and a demanding need for play, Siberian Huskies suit active households who enjoy running and playing. They are gentle, loving and affectionate.

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Loving indiscriminately and sometimes to a fault, the Siberian Husky is most likely to be voted ‘World’s Favourite Pet’ by the Society of Suspicious Strangers. They will welcome everyone home, even intruders. They rarely even bark although they do howl when bored. They make ideal family pets – gentle, loving, playful and great with children – and do well with other pets if socialised well and early. Their large size and high stamina notwithstanding, they aren’t big eaters.

A Siberian Husky is known for being loyal. While they love people, they are also happy with some alone time. Magicians could learn a thing or two about disappearing acts from Siberian Huskies. They are always on the lookout for a good escape, so make sure the yard is fenced in. They are intelligent, but not easy to train. You have to be firm, patient, consistent and ideally not a first-time owner to understand and train a Siberian Husky.

Fun fact: Siberian Huskies are one of the oldest dog breeds

and were imported from Siberia in 1909.

Originally bred as sled dogs, the Siberian Husky needs ample mental and physical stimulation. They will happily go for a jog with you. A long daily walk, a hike in the bush, or a romp in the (very well) fenced yard or park will make your bestie’s day. Don’t forget the leash. However, if your Husky lacks exercise regime you’ll find yourself with a bored, destructive pet in a ransacked home and a dug-out garden.

One of the most beautiful breeds, the Siberian Husky has a double coat (from black to white with markings) – a straight top coat and a soft, dense undercoat. They are quite clean and do not suffer from body odour. They are sensitive to the sun. Brush them twice a week and bath when necessary. Brush their teeth and trim their nails regularly. You’ll also need to have the carpet cleaner’s phone number handy – Siberian Huskies shed profusely and are not hypoallergenic.

Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. They are a healthy breed with few problems. However, some eye diseases are known to occur. They also don’t like hot weather. Together with your vet, you can determine and maintain a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.

Size

A Siberian Husky is a large-sized breed weighing between 16-27kgs with a height between 51-60cms.

Space

Huskies like big spaces and yards to play in.

Energy Levels

The equivalent of a marathon runner, they go and go and go. Daily runs and lots of games make for a happy pet.

Difficulty of Training

They are highly intelligent, making them easy to train. However, they have a mind of their own and perseverance and consistency are important.  

Family Suitability

They are great family pets and loyal companions, but they don’t make great watchdogs.  

Compatibility other pets

They love being the only pet, but do well with other Siberian Huskies.

Need for Company

They are neither your shadow nor independent, but want lots of love and games.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?

No

Coat and Grooming Needs

They demand a lot of attention. Brush daily and trim any hair between their feet. They have a dual coat, usually in white with various colours and markings.  

Shedding

They shed heavily during moulting season and lightly all year round.

Tendency to Bark

They are generally quiet dogs, so don’t expect long conversations.

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