Siberian Husky
Weight
35-60 lbs
Height
20-23 inches
Lifespan
12-14 years
Origin
Siberia
Temperament
The Siberian Husky is a beautiful sled dog known for striking blue eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Siberian Husky
Why are Siberian Huskies so vocal?
Huskies are extremely vocal because they were bred to communicate with their sled team and handlers. They howl, talk, and whine more than they bark. This trait is deeply ingrained in the breed.
Do Siberian Huskies shed a lot?
Yes, Huskies are extreme shedders. They blow their thick double coat twice a year, creating massive amounts of fur. Daily brushing during shedding season is essential. They shed moderately year-round.
Are Siberian Huskies good family dogs?
Yes, Huskies are friendly and good with families and children. They are pack animals that love being part of a family. However, they need lots of exercise and mental stimulation.
How much exercise does a Siberian Husky need?
Huskies need at least 2 hours of vigorous exercise daily. They were bred to run for miles pulling sleds. Without enough exercise, they become destructive and may try to escape.
Are Siberian Huskies easy to train?
Huskies are intelligent but independent and stubborn, making training challenging. They may understand commands but choose not to obey. Consistent, patient training with positive reinforcement works best.
Do Siberian Huskies run away?
Yes, Huskies are notorious escape artists. They have a strong prey drive and wanderlust. They can dig under fences, jump over them, or find other escape routes. Secure fencing and leashes are essential.
What health problems do Siberian Huskies have?
Common issues include hip dysplasia, eye problems (cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy), and epilepsy. They are generally healthy but should have regular eye and hip screenings.
How long do Siberian Huskies live?
Siberian Huskies typically live 12-14 years. They are a relatively healthy breed with a good lifespan for a medium-sized dog.
Can Siberian Huskies live in hot climates?
Huskies can adapt to warmer climates but it is not ideal. They should have access to air conditioning, shade, and fresh water. Never exercise them during hot parts of the day.
Are Siberian Huskies aggressive?
No, Huskies are not aggressive. They are friendly even with strangers, making them poor guard dogs. They may have high prey drive toward small animals, but aggression toward humans is rare.
Do Siberian Huskies get along with cats?
Huskies have a strong prey drive and may see cats as prey. Some can learn to coexist with cats if raised together, but supervision is always recommended. Many Huskies are not cat-safe.
Are Siberian Huskies good for first-time owners?
Huskies are not recommended for first-time owners. They are challenging due to their exercise needs, escape tendencies, stubbornness, and shedding. Experienced dog owners handle them better.
Why do Huskies have blue eyes?
Many Huskies have blue eyes due to a genetic variant that reduces pigment in the iris. They can have blue, brown, parti-colored (two colors in one eye), or bi-colored (one blue, one brown) eyes.
How big do Siberian Huskies get?
Male Huskies weigh 45-60 pounds and stand 21-23.5 inches tall. Females are 35-50 pounds and 20-22 inches. They are medium-sized but very athletic.
Can Siberian Huskies live in apartments?
Huskies can live in apartments if they get extensive daily exercise. However, their howling, shedding, and energy levels make apartment living challenging. A house with a secure yard is ideal.