A Siberian Husky looking at the camera

Siberian Husky Insurance, Care and Health Advice

Siberian Huskies are one of the oldest dog breeds. Thought to have originated from the Chukchi tribe of Siberian nomads, they were imported to Alaska in 1908. They were used as working dogs to pull sleds during the gold rush and can run for miles without tiring.

With their wolf-like appearance and bright blue eyes, they have striking looks. They’re very people-friendly but can be a high energy handful so may be best–suited to someone with experience of this breed. This breed guide has all the information you need for living with a Siberian Husky.

Siberian Husky Facts

Dog breed type icon
Type
Working
Dog breed lifespan icon
Lifespan
12 - 15 years
Dog breed size icon
Size
Large
Dog breed weight icon
Weight
20 - 27 kg
Dog breed height icon
Height
51 - 61 cm
Dog breed temperament icon
Temperament
Energetic, sociable, playful
Dog breed exercise icon
Exercise
120 mins per day
Dog breed grooming icon
Grooming
High maintenance

Is a Siberian Husky Right for Me?

Siberian Huskies are always on the go so if you’re looking for an active, intelligent breed, this one may fit the bill. But keep in mind that they’re best handled by someone who has experience and time to train them.

You'll also have to cope with their high exercise demands, long distance walks and lots of play time. You will need a secure garden as they can be escape artists, so the breed isn’t really suited to city life.

They’ll enjoy playing with older children and other dogs but may be too big and strong if there are small children around. Just remember they have a strong prey drive so it’s best they don’t live with other small pets.

Four cute Siberian Husky puppies

What are Siberian Husky Puppies Like?

Siberian Husky puppies are adorable bundles of fur. Like all puppies, make sure they’re well-socialised by introducing them to new people, noises, dogs and experiences from an early age. This will ensure they grow into confident, friendly adults.

A smiling Siberian Husky standing by a lake

Life with a Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky loves company and can get lonely if their owner is out at work. If they’re left alone, they may start to show undesirable behaviour like chewing furniture and howling... Separation anxiety can be a problem if they’re left on their own for long periods.

These dogs are not big barkers, instead they like to howl, sing and some may even have a conversation with their owner.

Caring for Your Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are large, active dogs. They’ll need a well-balanced diet that fits their age and exercise needs. Split their daily dog food allowance into two meals and try to keep to a routine by feeding at the same time each day. If you're unsure how much to feed your dog, your vet will be happy to give you advice.

Siberian Huskies have thick, double coats – perfect for keeping them warm in sub-zero climates. But it does mean that they shed a lot, especially in spring and autumn. Brush their coats three times a week to keep them smooth and in good condition.

If they need a bath, it might be best to take them to a professional groomer rather than trying at home (it could get messy!). Brush their teeth at least three times a week to keep dental disease at bay.

Siberian Huskies are intelligent and can have minds of their own. So training will need a consistent and confident hand – use reward-based training and never shout or punish them. They need someone who’ll be the leader of the pack! Training classes are a great way to socialise your dog and get guidance and tips.

Siberian Huskies are strong, athletic dogs that have a lot of energy to burn. Two hours each day at least will be needed which can be a big commitment. They’ll also enjoy playing with their owners and being able to run off-lead, but the area must be safe and secure.

They have a strong prey drive and love to run and chase any small animals that may be around. If you enjoy hiking, jogging or cycling, they’ll love to go with you.

But remember that their thick coats, ideal for winter, can mean that they can overheat in warm summer temperatures. So avoid exercising them in the heat of the day.

Siberian Husky Insurance

While those beautiful blue eyes may change colour, the one thing that won’t will be their boundless energy. And with energy like that, accidents can happen, so it’s a good idea to think about insuring your Husky.

At Everypaw, you can insure your Siberian Husky from 8 weeks of age, and all our policies include unlimited access to a fully qualified Vet Team, Petcall. Giving you the peace of mind, that whatever your husky throws at you, Everypaw’s Petcall will be there for you.

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Common Siberian Husky Health Problems by Vetstream

The Siberian Husky is generally healthy, but there are some health problems that are common in this breed. We have got together with veterinary experts Vetstream, to give you an idea of what health conditions to keep an eye out for in your Siberian Husky.

In Hip Dysplasia, the ball-and-socket joint of the hip doesn’t fit together properly and becomes unstable. This causes rubbing and damages the surface of the joint. It’s a common disorder in some breeds of dog and can lead to arthritis as the dog gets older. Anti-inflammatory drugs will reduce the pain and inflammation, but in some cases, surgery is needed.

A Hip Dysplasia Scoring Scheme is used to identify affected dogs with the condition – ask your breeder if their dogs have been tested.

Cataracts is a disease that affects the lens of the eye. The lens is normally clear but with cataracts it will appear cloudy or white, causing vision loss. Cataracts can be inherited. Treatment involves removing the lens from the eye.

Glaucoma is a condition where there is increased pressure on the inside of the eye. The Siberian Husky has been identified as a breed that can inherit the condition. In this breed, the glaucoma is described as being primary, closed angle. There may be sudden onset blindness, pain and an increase in intraocular pressure. 

Various medical and surgical options can be used to reduce this, but the outlook is poor for complete restoration of sight. Dogs at risk of developing this type of glaucoma should be tested before breeding and dogs with the condition shouldn’t be used for breeding.

Siberian Huskies can suffer from zinc deficiency, also known as zinc responsive dermatosis (ZRD). All Artic breeds appear to be predisposed to Type 1 ZRD. Affected dogs can have inflamed and scaly skin and crusty footpads. Dermatitis or alopecia around the eyes is common too.

The condition is thought to be caused by defective intestinal absorption of zinc. The condition can be resolved with zinc supplementation to their diets.

Quick Siberian Husky Q&A

In general, Siberian Huskies are not considered to be dangerous but they’re strong, powerful dogs and need to be well-trained.  If they’ve not been socialised properly by experienced owners, they can be a handful. Many have ended up in rescue centres as their owners haven’t understood their complex needs.

You can expect your Siberian Husky to live to 12-15 years providing they’ve been well-cared for.

The Siberian Husky won’t suit everyone. They need an experienced owner that has the time and energy to keep up with their active needs. If they’re left alone at home for long periods, they can be destructive and voice their displeasure at being lonely by howling.

The Siberian Husky is super-active so their owners need to have a very active lifestyle and be well-informed about the breed before bringing one home. Having this breed as a pet, is a very big commitment.

That’s All You Need To Know About Siberian Huskies

One of the oldest dog breeds, this highly energetic breed is perfectly suited to active households but needs experienced owners. Lots of long walks and playtime will keep this breed happy and healthy. If left alone for too long they can become destructive and vocal. Training and socialisation from an early age are important. They’re generally a healthy breed but there are some health conditions that you will need to keep an eye out for.

Content provided from Vetstream's Vetlexicon Canis

Vetlexicon is the world’s largest peer-reviewed online clinical reference source. All our content is written and peer-reviewed by over 1,000 of the world’s leading veterinarians, ensuring relevance, accuracy and quality.

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