Husky Puppies

Huskies might look a little intimidating, but they are very gentle and playful dogs who love to interact with humans and other animals. They also come with some interesting traits, like a love of exploration and cold weather. However, there are a few things that you keep in mind if you’d like to buy or adopt a husky puppy. Below you’ll find more husky puppies information about this breed to see whether or not they will make a good addition to your family.

Husky Ancestry

This dog breed is believed to have originated in Siberia, which is why it’s usually referred to as a Siberian Husky. The breed was created by the Chukchi people to help them hunt and pull heavy loads through frigid conditions. Eventually, they were kept by people as pets rather than working animals.

All About Huskies: How Big Do Huskies Get?

Male huskies will usually grow to be about 24 inches tall and have a weight of 60 lbs. Female huskies will grow to be 22 inches tall and have an average weight of 50 lbs.

Types of Huskies

There are a few different types of husky puppies to pick from.

Siberian Husky

One of the most common types of huskies is the Siberian Husky. They were originally bred to be used as sled-dogs to help people pull items on long distances through frigid conditions. In 1909, they were introduced to Alaska as racing sled dogs.

This type of husky is known for its small head, pointed ears, and bushy tail. Unlike other husky types, the Siberian Husky shed twice a year.

Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute was named after the Inuit tribe who often used them for racing and for pulling items through the Arctic. Compared to the Siberian Husky, the Alaskan Malamute is a bit taller and heavier. In fact, they can weigh up to 100 lbs. The Alaskan Malamute is known for its strong paws and happy brown eyes. They also have a double coat which needs to be groomed often. While this dog is very friendly and loyal, they sometimes can be aggressive toward other dogs.

Alaskan Husky

The Alaskan Husky often looks like a mixture between the Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky. However, this breed will often vary in its looks, unlike the other two types which tend to have the same appearance. This husky can weigh up to 50 lbs. and are a bit taller compared to the Siberian Husky. This breed is also very agile.

While these are the three main types of huskies, you’ll find various other types of husky cross-breeds. This includes the Eurohound and Miniature Husky Breeds.

You can buy your husky from a breeder by looking for “husky puppies near me” online or visit your local animal shelter and adopt one.

Husky Puppy Facts: Unique Husky Traits

Besides their playful nature and beautiful fur coat, huskies also have a few unique traits compared to other dog breeds.

They Love Cold Weather

Huskies were bred to live in cold conditions which is why they love cold weather. In fact, this is when they tend to want to be outside the most. This weather also is a little friendlier to them as their thick fur coat can make them very hot during the summer.

They Like to Talk

Believe it or not, huskies love to talk. They will make various vocal sounds that will indicate whether they are happy or displeased with something. Huskies do this as a way to communicate with other dogs, as well as humans. Keep in mind that they do enjoy howling. In fact, sometimes when you talk to them, they will make howling noises back at you. Being howled at by a husky is usually a good thing because it indicates they see you as being part of their pack.

They Like to Explore

Huskies are very curious dogs. Because of this, they might take off after something or try to dig their way out of a fence to get wherever they want to go. Due to this, it’s important to keep an eye on them at all times. You should also make sure to let them have plenty of outdoor exercises where they’ll be in a safe environment but get to explore new things.

They Hunt

Huskies do enjoy hunting which means you’ll need to do your best to help keep them away from small animals who they might try to hunt.

Due to this hunting instinct, it’s often recommended that you don’t leave huskies along with small animals, like cats.

They Enjoy Sitting on Things

This dog breed can be a little goofy sometimes and try to sit on various objects, especially if they are tall, like tables and counters. Because of this, you’ll need to watch them or block off certain areas if you don’t want them attempting to try to sit upon it.

They Love Toys

Surprisingly, huskies love toys. This can range from a tennis ball to a stuffed animal. In fact, most huskies will carry their toys around with them. They can also sometimes be a little possessive of their toys. If you have other dogs, it’s a good idea to make sure they each have their own collection of toys to help prevent your husky from getting jealous and territorial.

Common Husky Ailments

Unfortunately, huskies do have some medical ailments you’ll need to watch for. This includes cataracts, hip dysplasia, follicular dysplasia, zinc deficiency, and hypothyroidism.

Cataracts

Cataracts are one of the most common ailments that affect huskies. This problem usually forms in the first 6-12 months of a husky’s life. If not treated, it can lead to them becoming blind in future years. Because of this, it’s often recommended that you have your husky’s eyes regularly checked by their vet.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a problem that affects many large dog breeds, especially Siberian Huskies. This medical condition ends up affecting your dog’s hip joint which will not only make it difficult for your dog to walk, but could be very painful for them as well. If not treated early on, treatment can end up becoming very expensive later on. Hip dysplasia usually starts to affects dogs in their middle to later years. If caught early on, it can be treated through various medications or therapies.

Follicular Dysplasia

Follicular Dysplasia is yet another ailment that tends to affect young huskies. This is when there is abnormal hair growth which can lead to coarse hair and irritated skin patches. While there is no treatment for it, some shampoos can help to calm its symptoms.

Zinc Deficiency

Because huskies have such thick hair, it needs to be maintained not only through grooming, but their diet as well. Huskies might not receive enough zinc in their diet which could lead to them losing their hair in various areas on their body, such as around their arms, legs, and lips. If you find your husky is suffering from a zinc deficiency, it’s vital to take them to your vet as soon as possible. They’ll be able to give you supplements and other treatments to help fix it.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland overworks and can cause various health ailments, like hormone changes. Huskies are very susceptible to this problem and might end up gaining weight (despite not having much of an appetite), lethargy, and irritated skin.

These are some of the most common ailments that can affect huskies, although there are a few other medical conditions that can affect them as well. If you find your husky might be suffering from strange symptoms or is acting strange, be sure to take them immediately to your vet.

Temperament of Husky Puppies

Huskies are very gentle dogs. While there are rumors that they are aggressive this isn’t so. Below are some of their temperament traits of huskies.

They are Alert

Huskies are very alert to changes and are usually quite curious about them. They enjoy learning and are very intelligent.

Despite this alertness, they don’t always make the best guard dogs. While they might be alert to a burglar, they are very friendly and might end up trying to please the robber rather than scare them off.

They are Outgoing

Huskies are very friendly dogs and are usually happy to meet other animals and people. However, keep in mind that huskies who aren’t properly socialized might be a little aggressive toward others. Because of this, it’s important to make sure they are around others often.

They are Playful

This dog breed loves to play, especially outdoors. This makes them perfect for those who want a furry companion to travel with them while on the go.

They are Stubborn

While huskies are loveable, they are very stubborn. If they don’t want to do something, they won’t do it. This is why it can often be difficult to try a Siberian Husky puppy.

Energy Levels of Husky Puppies

Huskies were once used to do intense work which means they are very athletic. They have a strong drive which means they can be very energetic. If you don’t let them have enough exercise, they can end up being overwhelmed with their energy level and might try to release it in various ways, such as running in your home or chewing things.

Because of this, it’s very important you give them safe outlets they can get this energy out in. This can include letting them run around in the dog park or taking them for a hike. Once they are able to get this energy out, they will be very calm later on.

However, as huskies get older, they will mellow down. Because of this, it’s often recommended that you adopt an older husky dog if you want one who is extremely calm.

How to Train a Husky Puppy

Huskies tend to be very rambunctious and need to have discipline early on so they learn how to properly behave. However, they learn very quickly. Below are some tips to use when it comes to training husky pups.

Show That You Are in Charge

Huskies enjoy being in charge, which means you need to make it clear that you are the boss early on. While this doesn’t mean to be aggressive with your dog, you need to be firm with your voice when telling them not to do things.

Use Positive Reinforcements

When your puppy does something well, such as making sure to go outdoors to use the bathroom, be positive with them. This will help to show your pup that you are pleased with what they are doing which will make them want to do more of it.

Stay Calm

It will take a little bit of time before your husky fully understands how they are supposed to act. Because of this, it’s important to always stay calm, even when they are doing things they shouldn’t. Otherwise, they might come to despise their training sessions because they are yelled at.

Keep a Fixed Schedule

Huskies often work well if there is a fixed schedule. This can help them to look forward to things and work to listen a bit better when you’re trying to train them. A fixed schedule can also help to reduce them from getting stressed by random activities.

Best Food for a Husky Puppy

Feeding your husky pup the right food is important to help ensure their skin and coat stays healthy. In fact, huskies have a very particular feeding schedule depending on the time of year it is. For instance, during the summer, they need a low protein diet, while in the winter they need a high protein diet. This is usually because of their coat and how thick it is during these seasons. Below are some other important food options to consider giving to your furry friend.

Chicken

Chicken is an excellent source of protein for husky puppies. This will help their bones to stay strong and is a lean meat so there’s no need to worry about them consuming excessive amounts of fat. Make sure to always cook their chicken before you give it to them so as to prevent spreading dangerous salmonella bacteria.

Omega-3s

You’ll also want to make sure your puppy husky gets plenty of Omega-3s in their diet. Omega-3s, such as from fish oil, will help to ensure their immune system stay healthy. It will also work to keep their skin and thick coat in the best condition possible.

Wet Food

While some wet food dog cans might be expensive, they are ideal to give your husky puppy compared to dry food. Wet food contains moisture which helps to ensure your Husky stays hydrated as sometimes they don’t always drink enough water. It also helps huskies who might have jaw problems consume their food a bit easier.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a very healthy vegetable to give to your husky puppy. While it should be given to them in moderation (and cooked), broccoli is high in fiber and packed with many beneficial vitamins and minerals.

Apples

Apples are a good snack to give to your husky to help keep their immune system healthy. They’re also packed with fiber and can help to keep their teeth clean. However, before giving your husky apples, make sure to wash, peel, and cut them up.

You’ll also find plenty of pre-made dog food options, many of which are designed specifically for huskies. However, some might contain common food allergies, like corn, which might give your husky a stomach ache or cause skin irritations. Due to this, talk things over with your vet who will be able to help give you the best food options for your dog.

Other Things to Know About Huskie

There are a few other crucial things to keep in mind if you’re thinking about adding a husky puppy to your life.

They Need Mental Exercise

Besides needing plenty of physical exercise, huskies also need mental exercise as well. This will help them to stay active, something they enjoy doing. Because of this, it’s important to give your dog plenty of things they can use to keep their minds busy, like puzzle toys.

Always Groom Them

You want to make sure to always keep your husky well-groomed. If you don’t, their fur could end up getting knots and looking unsightly. It could also make your dog very hot and could hide common skin allergy particles, like ragweed and pollen. This could end up irritating your dog’s skin and making them very itchy and miserable.

You can bring them to a professional groomer or try to do so yourself. You’ll need to make sure to have the right equipment though, like thick brushes, to that will get into both of their coats.

A husky is a wonderful dog that will make a great addition to any family. While they might be a little vocal and need a lot of exercise, they are lovable and patient creatures. Be sure to keep the information mentioned above in mind to ensure your new family addition stays happy and healthy.

Sources:

Siberian Husky
Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies: What's Good About 'Em, What's Bad About 'Em
Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky Dog Breed Information Center

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