They are still one of the most popular dog breeds out there. From their intriguing eye colors to their rich coats, humans adore these working dogs. Many pet parents who get their husky from a puppy will often ask themselves “Will my husky puppy change color?” 

The answer is yes, they will change color and it will be due to several different reasons. We’ve put together a list of 7 important things you need to know about your pup’s color-changing fur and why they do this so you can put your mind at ease.

Will My Husky Puppy Change Color?

Yes, your husky puppy will change color. Husky pups are typically born with soft fuzzy coats that often contain darker tones through their fur. After their first shedding season, you may notice that markings that were once black are now light gray in color.

This change happens because your pup has developed its coarse, thick adult coat. If your husky has dark patches around their eyes, these could fade out completely or they may turn into a lighter shade. These changes are only likely to occur during a shift in the seasons or during shedding.

Why Is My Husky Changing Colors?

There are several reasons why your husky may be changing colors. A change in the seasons and shedding are the two main reasons why your husky is changing colors. A lesser-known reason for your husky pup’s color change is sun exposure. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause your Siberian husky’s fur color to change from dark hues to lighter hues – reverse tanning – while in most cases it will revert back once you limit the amount of sunlight they get, it can in other cases be a permanent change.

So be careful if you live in an area where you get a lot of harsh sunlight and spend a lot of time outdoors. You’ll also find that husky’s will change color as they age. Some husky’s that appeared black when they were pups will now have more gray tones, this is due to the natural aging process. Just like humans, husky’s can also develop gray hairs! 

What Are The Different Colors Of Huskies?

Husky’s are unique in the fact that each part of their double coat can be a different color. As well as this, dilution factors, age, and sun exposure can also affect your husky’s fur color. According to the American Kennel Club, these are some of the standard husky colors:

Agouti

Also known as ‘wild coloring, and agouti husky looks almost identical to a wolf. Agouti huskies have dark heavy masks and cream-colored markings. The pigment extends far down the canines body and their undercoats are usually charcoal while their outer coat can be a mixture of black, tan, red, or grey. 

Black and white

The undercoat of a black and white Siberian husky can be white, charcoal, beige, or even a mix of all three. While their topcoat can range from jet black to a dilution known as ‘salt and pepper’ grey, you may also find that some huskies have a slight red tint to their fur. Though this red tint is rare and usually a result of sun exposure. 

Red

Some Siberian husky’s come in a variety of red or copper tones. From red and white huskies to chocolate copper huskies, they all have a varying degree of red throughout their fur with some lending more of the tan colors to come through where others have more red hues showing through for darker fur color. 

Sable

Considered a rare color, but not as rare as a pure white husky, Sable-colored huskies have black points and black tipping of the fur, and the undercoat is always a shade of red.

The Three Greys

Some huskies come in one of three shades of grey; wolf-grey, silver, or dark/medium grey. The wolf-grey husky has warm shades of grey with either beige, tan, or red behind the ears and on their legs and back. Their undercoat is normally beige. A silver husky tends to have a silvery or blueish tone to their fur and their undercoat is normally white. A complete contrast to the wolf-grey husky. The medium/dark grey husky is the most common with their undercoats being a mix of beige and silver.

Some colors and patterns, such as the double merle, have been linked to certain health conditions including sight and hearing problems.

What Is The Rarest Husky Color?

Pure white is considered to be the rarest color for a husky. This color is a result of recessive genes that have removed the pigmentation from their coat. While you can get white husky’s they may have hints of yellow through their coats.

A white Siberian husky can have liver-colored or black points – usually the color of their nose and skin around their eyes. Their undercoat however is white or silver. This husky is truly striking, especially when paired with captivating bright blue eyes.  Pure white huskies are not a sign of albinoism as many believe, it is simply due to other hues being completed restricted.

How Often Do Husky’s Change Color?

Mature husky’s will change color once or twice a year. This change occurs due to the shedding of their fur. A Siberian husky tends to shed their coats twice a year – once in the lead up to summer and then again just before winter. However, every once in a while your husky may only shed once in the year. This factor tends to be weather-related as well as location-dependent.

Be aware that your husky may constantly shed if you live in a place that is relatively warm all year round. It’s likely that your husky’s fur coat will be darker during the winter months due to the coat being thicker and lighter during the summer months as the coat is normally thinner. 

Do Husky Patterns Change?

It’s unmistakable that a husky puppy’s markings make it adorable and very unique but sadly their markings don’t stick around for long. As your husky reaches adulthood their markings will undeniably change. When and how the markings change is unknown as it varies from canine to canine.

No two huskies are the same when it comes to their markings or patterns and some can be more striking than others. Generally, husky’s have darker markings which become lighter as they change their fur colors. Gray colors are more prominent in dark-toned huskies.

As your Siberian husky ages, their mask is going to change color. If your husky had dark patches surrounding their eyes, these areas could fade into the same colors as the rest of their mask. You may also notice that your husky’s eyebrow markings will fade as they age and become part of their overall mask.

Solid-colored or monochrome huskies will not have a mask or any recognizable patterns, but that’s not to say you won’t notice color changes as they mature.

Do Husky’s Eyes Change Color?

You are likely to notice that your husky’s eye color will change slightly. This normally only happens as a puppy. It’s not likely that your pup’s eye color will change once they reach adulthood. Blue or brown are the most common colors for husky’s eyes, however, you may see a husky with green eyes.

The most unusual and rarest colors are split-eye and parti-. Parti-eyed huskies will have a predominant eye color with another color sprinkled across the iris, whereas a split-eyed husky will have eyes that are half one color and half another color. You may have even seen husky’s with each eye bring a different color. This condition is called heterochromia. 

It’s possible that some husky pups may not have the same blues eyes in adulthood. While striking blue eyes are the most common color in husky’s, you should notice if your pup has different colored eyes to that fierce blue when they are between 5 and 8 weeks old. During this period you’ll notice that your husky’s blue eyes (if they have blue eyes that is) will start to darken. They could even turn gray or a murky color. By 12 to 16 weeks of age, your husky should have achieved its final eye color, however, some husky’s can take a little longer.

The post Will My Siberian Husky Puppy Change Color? 7 Things To Know appeared first on Husky Habits.

However, it doesn’t end there. There are still a few things you need to consider when feeding your dog rice. So, if you’re wondering, “Can Siberian Huskies eat rice?” then don’t fret – in this article, that’s exactly what we’re going to talk about.

Can Siberian Huskies eat rice?

You may not know it, but rice is an ingredient found in most dog foods. Rice contains a ton of nutrients that’s good for your Husky, so it’s even highly beneficial for them to eat a certain quantity of rice from time to time.

Also, if you have a sick dog, rice is even preferable to dry dog food. This is because rice contains lots of carbohydrates for energy, is easily digestible, and can be prepared conveniently.

When preparing rice for your dog, keep it simple. Avoid adding spices or seasonings – your pets can’t tell the difference, and some of those spices can even cause an allergic reaction to some. Also of primary consideration is the amount of rice to feed your Husky, which should be consulted to a vet.

Should I give my Siberian Husky brown rice or white rice?

Brown and white rice differ in the ways that they are processed.

Brown rice isn’t as processed, so the grains ‘seed coat’ remains. This contains more nutrients and fiber, which is noticeably absent from white rice. However, although it’s healthier, brown rice might be harder for Huskies to digest. That’s why it’s not generally recommended to feed your furbabies brown rice.

On the other hand, white rice contains fewer nutrients but is much easier for your dogs to digest. The downside is that white rice also has a higher glycemic index, which means that it contains more carbohydrates. This extra amount of carbs might be dangerous for huskies who already have delicate blood sugar levels because of an illness, such as canine diabetes, so you must be careful.

Benefits and risks of rice for Siberian Huskies

Rice as a diet for Huskies has a lot of benefits. It contains many carbohydrates, protein, iron, vitamin D, and helpful fiber, giving your pups an extra health boost. It’s also easy to digest and can supply sick puppies with the right amount of nutrients to keep them healthy.

However, it could also pose some risks. If given too much rice, Huskies can gain weight and even become high-risk for diabetes. Feeding them brown rice could also result in constipation.

Final thoughts

As long as proper considerations are taken, rice is healthy and easy food for Huskies.

In this article, we learned that:

• Rice is safe for Huskies to eat.
• Rice contains a lot of carbohydrates, protein, iron, vitamin D, and helpful fiber.
• More than its abundant nutritional value, rice is also easy to prepare and digest.
• It’s safer to feed dogs white rice rather than brown rice.
• Too much white rice can make diabetic dogs more at risk, while brown rice can cause constipation.

Did you like this article? Don’t forget to check our other blog posts here at Husky Habits!

The post Can Siberian Huskies Eat Rice? Benefits and Risks appeared first on Husky Habits.

That said, it’s not unusual for problems to arise every now and then. For instance, maybe your Husky has stopped eating their dry food, even if you try to hand-feed them. Like most furparents, this probably got you concerned and worried about your precious furbaby.

If you’re wondering why your Husky won’t eat dry food, then don’t fret – you’ve come to the right place.

5 reasons why your Husky won’t eat dry food

There are many reasons why your Husky won’t eat dry food. Here are some of the most common ones.

The food is low-quality

One thing you have to know about Husky breeds before we go further is that they’re good at holding off eating.

Historically, Huskies are descended from a breed of sled dogs found in the Chukchi Peninsula. These dogs were bred specifically to become working dogs and to aid the Chukchi people as they hunted, traded, and did other similar activities.

Since the entire area was often covered in snow, there wasn’t always a lot of food available. Due to this, these sled dogs developed a type of metabolism that could keep their energy up for a long time even without food intake.

In other words, Huskies are good at skipping meals, especially if they don’t like the food. This includes poor-quality kibbles. If your Husky thinks that the dry food you’ve provided isn’t good enough, they won’t think twice about skipping it and waiting for something better to come their way.

To combat this problem, simply replace his regular dry food with a higher-quality variety. Brands that have fresh ingredients listed first are better than those that have corn, rice, and other grains.

They’re bored

Just like people, Huskies can get bored of their food as well. If all they’ve been eating for a while is dry food, it’s not unusual for them to get tired of it eventually.

Luckily, the solution for this is pretty easy. You can add some wet food, gravy, or toppings to your dog’s regular dry food to improve its taste and texture. You can also add human food like cooked chicken breast and pig liver to switch things up.

If you still have some milk formula for dogs, you may also want to add warm milk to their bowl of kibbles. The kibbles will soften in the milk, making it more palatable and much easier to eat.

They’re stressed or anxious

Despite their wolf-like appearance, Huskies are actually quite sensitive dogs. They get stressed over things like moving houses, a new pet, or noisy people. They can also get stressed over minor changes, like simply moving their food bowl someplace else. 

In addition to this, Huskies are also known to suffer from separation anxiety, which is a whole different topic altogether.

Of course, if your Husky is stressed or anxious, it’s very likely for them to stop eating not just dry food, but all kinds of food in general. Be very observant and watch out for other signs of stress and anxiety, like pacing, whining, panting, yawning, and licking, among many others. Luckily, this typically doesn’t last for more than a day.

They have dental issues

Dental issues are difficult for everyone, humans and Huskies alike. These issues can range from tooth decay, bad gums, and other related issues.

Since dry food is much firmer than wet food, any Husky with dental issues may find it much more difficult to eat the former than the latter.

Remember, your Husky won’t be able to tell you straight out if they have a bad toothache, so, once again, you have to use your observation skills. Symptoms include refusal to eat hard foods or treats, slow chewing, excessive drooling, and resistance whenever you touch their face or mouth area.

If your Husky is dealing with dental issues, the best way to help them with this is to simply go to the vet to get the proper treatment.

That said, prevention is always better than cure, so to avoid such issues in the future, make sure to brush your dog’s teeth regularly and to give them special treats that can help with their dental health.

They’re feeling ill

If you Husky has underlying health issues, it’s only natural for them to lose their appetite. This doesn’t just include dry food, but also all kinds of food in general.

One of the health issues that can cause a lack of appetite is Zinc deficiency. This is very common in Husky breeds.

Again, observation should be your strong suit here. If your dog still doesn’t eat after 2 days, there could be something else that’s up. Schedule an appointment with the vet for a thorough check-up.

How to get your Husky to eat dry food

Now you know why your Husky won’t eat dry food. To help improve their appetite, you can do the following:

• Provide high-quality dog food. As mentioned above, Huskies can easily pass up on dog food that they deem poor quality.
• Mix up their food every now and then. You can even add human food to make their food tastier for them.
• Create a strict schedule. Doing so will regulate your dog’s appetite.
• Ensure they’re getting proper exercise. Huskies need to burn off their energy to feel completely hungry.
• Keep their dental health in tip-top shape. A bad toothache can make eating dry food much more difficult than it should be.
• Have them checked by your local vet regularly. Making sure they’re always healthy is part of your responsibility as a furparent.

Final thoughts

As you can see, there are many reasons why your Husky won’t eat dry food. In this article, we learned the following:

• Huskies can afford to skip meals due to their excellent metabolism.
• Low-quality food, boredom, stress and anxiety, dental issues, and underlying health problems are some of the reasons why a Husky won’t eat dry food.
• To get a Husky to eat, you can switch their dry food, add toppings or wet food, provide a more comfortable space, and get them checked out at the vet.

Did this solve your problem? If you’d like to learn more about Huskies, don’t forget to check out our blog at Husky Habits!

The post My Husky Won’t Eat Dry Food! Here Are 5 Reasons Why appeared first on Husky Habits.

Just like humans, huskies can also suffer from a condition called epilepsy. This is the most common form of seizure in dogs. Abnormal electrical activity in your husky’s brain cause seizures, affecting how your beloved pet behaves and looks. Some seizures can look like a twitch, while some can be uncontrollable full-body shakes. Seizures themselves can last anything from 30 seconds to several minutes. Anything that lasts longer than 5 minutes will need immediate medical attention from a vet. 

Many dog breeds are prone to seizures and sadly husky’s are one of those breeds. They can be happily playing with you one minute and then before you know it you’ll be shouting “help! My husky is having a seizure”.  While you may feel like you’re completely helpless at first. There is actually a lot you can do to help them.  We’ve put together a list of all the important information to help you look after your husky, so you know exactly what to do when the unthinkable happens.

How Do I Know If My Husky Is Having A Seizure?

Seizures in dogs can be pretty scary, especially if you have never witnessed one before, but knowing the signs of one can really help you get the most effective treatment for your four-legged friend. While not all seizures look the same, you may notice the following symptoms:

• Muscle Twitching (anywhere in the body)
• A vacant expression, they may not respond to you when you call their name
• Uncontrollable or jerky movements
• Paddling movements with their legs
• Collapse and loss of consciousness
• Passing of urine or poop
• Drooling or foaming at the mouth
• Eyes rolling back or moving from side to side
• Tense or cramped muscles

It’s important to know that some seizures can affect the whole body whereas others may only affect parts of it.

What Do I Do If My Husky Is Having A Seizure?

After identifying that your husky is having a seizure you may feel like a helpless observer, however, you are far from it. Although none of us would like to ever witness this our beloved pooches, there are a few important steps we can take to help our huskies, even when they are mid-seizure. 

1. Stay safe and keep calm – It’s extremely important that we remain calm and level-headed as your dog’s health relies on your ability to focus. You’ll also want to take a look at your surroundings to make sure there is nothing around that could harm them, if there is, gently move it out of the way. Do not try to touch, or move your pet as they could end up biting you. It’s best to leave them to handle the seizure.
2. Check the time – Knowing when the seizure started and how long it lasted is very important as it will give your vet key information about your husky’s symptoms. If the seizure has lasted more than a couple of minutes your dog is at risk of hyperthermia. If you can keep, your dog cool by applying cold or wet towels to their neck, groin, paws, and head. Or if you have a fan turn it on and point it in their direction. 
3. Take a video – Although this is likely to be the last thing on your mind, taking a video will also provide key details about your husky’s seizure to your vet. Instead of you remembering all the symptoms and exactly what your husky was doing, a video will show your vet firsthand what happened. If you have someone else with you, get them to take the video while you time the length of the seizure.
4. Be reassuring – Witnessing your husky having a seizure is very unsettling, and our initial instinct is to cuddle them, but in this situation, you’ll want to stay away from them. Offering them reassurance by saying their name and telling them everything will be ok is the best thing for them. They are also going to look for you when they come round so being there as the first person they see will help to relax them and keep them safer and calmer. 
5. Call your vet – Once the seizure is over it’s important to call your vet, even if your husky seems normal. There are two types of seizures however that require immediate emergency treatment; cluster seizures and Status Epilepticus. These two types of seizures often require medical intervention and overnight hospitalization to help stabilize your pooch.
6. Keep a journal – If this is the first time you’re pet has had a seizure, it’s worth keeping a note of it. It’s highly likely that this is a one-off, however, some seizures can reoccur. By documenting the time, date, and how long it lasted will give your vet valuable information should your husky have another. It can also provide key information on the cause or reason behind the seizures.

What Can Trigger A Seizure In A Husky?

There are plenty of things that can trigger a seizure from toxins and diabetes to viral infections and heatstroke. It isn’t always easy to know what the actual cause is. While some seizures might occur due to genetics, others could be due to the medications they are on. 

Common causes of seizures in Huskies can include the following:

Regardless of the underlying cause, seizures occur due to faulty electrical activity in your husky’s brain.

Treatment For Seizures In Huskies

Depending on the cause of the seizure will depend on the possible treatment available. Your vet will run a series of tests to determine the root cause of your husky’s seizures. If no cause can be found then the likely diagnosis will be Idiopathic Epilepsy. 

Once a diagnosis has been made, your vet will work with you to find the best treatment for your pooch. This may include medications or keeping a seizure diary. Alternative treatments can also include complementary therapies like acupuncture or even a change in diet. A dog’s diet that includes medium-chain fatty acids as a fat source may be able to decrease seizures in some dogs.

How To Prevent A Husky From Having Seizures?

You need to be aware that your husky could have a seizure when you are not home. So, while stopping the seizures altogether may not be possible, prevention is the next best thing. By following these steps you can potentially help keep them safe, should they experience another seizure:

Take precautions – Look for potential dangers and mitigate them. For example, if you have stairs in your home, use a stair gate to keep your husky away from them. This way if your pet was disoriented after having a seizure it lowers the risk of them sustaining an injury from falling down them. 

Track medications – If you’ve been given medication to help manage your husky’s symptoms it’s really important that you are consistently giving them their medication. While we all know our lives can be pretty hectic, it might be worth keeping a medication diary or setting constant reminders on your phone so you never miss a dose. 

Watch out for side effects – Many anti-seizure medications have side effects. Some of these side effects can be temporary and last anything from a couple of days to 2 weeks, others can last a lot longer. If you notice any of the following side effects, contact your vet immediately; your husky is very lethargic, has trouble walking, or changes in their behavior. It might mean that the specific medication is not suitable for your husky and a new one will need to be found.

Are Huskies Seizure Prone?

There are three types of seizures that occur in dogs; reactive, secondary, and primary. 

Reactive seizures are caused by the brain’s reaction to a metabolic problem, such as low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin.

Secondary seizures are usually a result of brain trauma, tumor, or stroke.

If no underlying cause can be found, that would link the seizure to being a reactive or secondary seizure, then the likely answer would be that it’s a primary (idiopathic epilepsy) seizure. Primary seizures are usually inherited conditions. Episodes will usually begin between 6 months and 3 years of age. 

Some breeds are more prone to seizures than others. Just like Alaskan Malamutes, huskies are predisposed to getting epilepsy. If diagnosed with epilepsy, your husky will more than likely require lifelong medication to keep their seizures under control and regular blood tests to monitor side effects and efficiency of the medication.

The post Siberian Husky Seizures: Symptoms, Causes & What To Do appeared first on Husky Habits.

In this article, we’ll find out if huskies like the cold weather and everything else you need to know about this topic.

Do Huskies like the cold weather?

Generally speaking, Huskies like the cold weather. As mentioned above, they are direct descendants of sled dogs, which lived outdoors in barns or in insulated dog houses. They can easily withstand temperatures as cold as -60 degrees F (-51 degrees C.)

Modern-day Huskies have already evolved to adapt to modern conditions, but they still retain many of their ancestors’ traits, including the preference for cold weather.

That said, despite being bred to thrive in freezing temperatures, it’s still important to give your Husky equal amounts of time indoors and outdoors.

Can Husky puppies get cold?

Just like human babies, Husky puppies haven’t exactly reached their full development and therefore they cannot tolerate cold weather as much as Husky adults do.

The coat of a Husky puppy cannot provide the level of protection needed to withstand cold temperatures. That is why extra care and protection should be given to puppies during winter, at least until their coats develop enough to provide them the protection they need.

This means that even if you have a separate dog house for your Huskies, it might still be best to keep the puppies indoors with you at night to protect them from extreme temperatures.

How Cold can Huskies tolerate?

Huskies can adapt to live just about anywhere, be it in cold weather or hot weather. As mentioned above, Huskies can tolerate negative temperatures, just like their ancestors.

However, safety precautions should still be taken especially when you’re planning to leave them outside for a prolonged period of time. This is especially true if the weather is rainy or snowy.

How do Huskies survive the cold?

So, what exactly makes Huskies stand the cold better than other dog breeds?

Their coats and fat act as insulation

While it’s not alright to have an overweight Husky, they should still have a healthy amount of fat. Along with their double-coated fur that tends to shed during winter, a healthy layer of fat on their bodies gives them extra protection by allowing better heat retention.

Their coat serves two purposes. The long, outer layer prevents snow from seeping into the undercoat due to its water-resistant characteristic. On the other hand, the shorter undercoat forms a dense layer of insulation to keep their body warmer.

Their ears are protected with hair

Inside every Husky’s sensitive ears are fine hairs that can help protect them from the cold. Since these hairs are pretty thick, they act as natural earmuffs that can help retain heat and prevent frostbite.

Their tails are fluffy enough to keep them warm

Huskies love sleeping all curled up with their tail covering their nose. This actually serves a purpose, since their fluffy tails can help keep them warmer in the winter months. Their tails also help them keep their nose moist while still allowing them to breathe warm air.

Their paws heat up when they run

Your dog’s paw pads do more than just protect them from the hard ground. As they walk and run around, the blood circulates from their pads through their legs, which helps warm them up. In short, the more your Husky is active, the more they feel warmer. And since Huskies love being active, this means they hardly feel the cold when they’re outside.

Can Huskies Be Kept Outside In The Cold?

Huskies are very active dogs who love to run and play outside. If you want to let your Husky sleep outside, make sure that they have a comfortable dog house that’s properly insulated. It should also be large enough to accommodate them and give them ample space to move and play.

Also, bedding is very important, as it helps make your Husky more comfortable. Avoid using blankets or fabrics as they may eventually freeze when dogs track snow into the doghouse. Hay or straw are your best bets as they’re absorbent and warm. Their water bowl should be the heated variety as well to prevent their water from turning into a big chunk of ice during the winter night.

That said, keep in mind that they do have their limits, as well. If you see that they’re not doing too well outside, regardless of the temperature, it’s a better option to bring them inside the house. This should be the case in warmer temperatures, as Huskies can’t handle the heat as well as they handle the cold.

How To Know When Your Husky Is Too Cold

While it’s true that Huskies like cold weather, it’s important to look out for signs that may suggest that they’re getting too cold:

• Holding a paw up off the ground
• Shivering or shaking excessively
• Refusing to continue walking
• Gradually becoming slower with their movements
• Looking anxious or uncomfortable
• Displaying a hunched back with a tucked tail
• Whining or crying

Seek a warmer place as soon as you notice any of the aforementioned signs. Letting your Husky stay cold for a long time may lead to hypothermia and frostbite–two serious conditions that can still happen to huskies, despite their extreme resilience.

Final Thoughts on Huskies and Cold Weather

As you can see, Huskies not only handle cold weather, they also like it, at least to some degree. That said, there are some precautions to take before leaving your Husky in the cold.

In this article, we learned that:

• Huskies are specifically bred to withstand cold temperatures, but they still have a limit.
• Extra precautions should be taken when leaving your Husky outside in the cold, including providing them with a well-built and insulated dog house.
• Some signs to look out for are excessive shivering, gradual slowing, and refusal to walk.

Are you interested in learning more about Huskies? Don’t forget to check out our blog at Husky Habits!

The post ​​Do Alaskan Huskies Like The Cold Winter Weather? appeared first on Husky Habits.

In this article, we will discuss the answer to the question “Do Huskies have separation anxiety?” and provide some tips to help minimize this problem.

Do Huskies have separation anxiety?

Most dogs suffer from separation anxiety when left alone or when going through even the slightest change in their daily routine. Huskies are no exception to this.

Generally, Huskies are friendly and outgoing dogs who naturally gravitate towards other dogs and humans. While at times they might be too aggressive towards smaller breeds, they would still prefer to spend time with other dogs than by themselves. 

When left alone, they can leave quite a mess in their wake. From plants to furniture to literally anything that can be picked up – name it, and there’s a chance that a Husky will want to chew it.

If this scenario sounds familiar, you may be dealing with a Husky who has separation anxiety.

Signs that your Huskies have separation anxiety

Separation Anxiety is a term used to refer to actions exhibited by dogs who, when left alone, show maladaptive behaviors like the ones listed below. 

As a pet parent, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with these behaviors and body language. Knowing them will help you understand your Husky better and learn what triggers their separation anxiety. It will also help you determine the best ways to reduce it.

Some of the common symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs include:

• Pacing, whining, or following their owners around the house when they notice that you’re preparing to leave
• Excessive barking or howling
• Refusal to eat or drink
• Panting or drooling excessively
• Accidents from an otherwise well-trained Husky
• Destructive behavior such as chewing, biting, clawing, and digging anywhere in the house
• In extreme cases, Huskies may attempt to escape from the house by breaking through windows or chewing through doors. Damaged doors and windows are not rare either when you’ve got a particularly anxious Husky

Seeing just one or two of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean your Husky has separation anxiety. For instance, poor or inadequate training can be the cause for some of these symptoms. A puppy that has not been properly potty trained may have some bathroom accidents in his first few months. Also, there are plenty of reasons for a dog’s refusal to eat, some of which should be checked out by a veterinarian.

However, if many of these signs are exhibited by your Husky on a regular basis, particularly whenever they’re left alone, they might be suffering from separation anxiety.

6 ways to minimize separation anxiety in Huskies

1. Change your pre-leaving habits

Your pre-leaving habits say everything your Husky needs to know before you leave. You may not notice it, but there are things that you do before leaving that your dog definitely sees. These actions alert them that you’re about to go, building up their anxiety in the process.

For instance, habits such as grabbing keys off a key hook, taking your hat from the stand, slipping into your sandals, and even saying, “See you later, baby!” are signs that your dog is about to spend the next few hours by themself. Again, this makes them become anxious to the point that they may even try to stop you from leaving completely.

Try to switch up your habits every now and then to throw your Husky off. Also, train them to stop getting so worried by leaving and going back after a few minutes. This lets them know that you’re still going to return. You can start by minute, then five, then 10, and so on.

2. Stay calm when leaving and arriving

Huskies are very good at sensing what you’re feeling. If you’re always stressed and in a hurry before you leave your house, your dog will pick it up and feel stressed and rushed themself. This can worsen their separation anxiety. 

When arriving, a calm acknowledgment should also be enough. Acting too excited when you get home will make your dog look forward to it too much, which can also make their anxiety worse.

3. Provide a comfortable spot

Huskies consider tight, enclosed spaces as a form of comfort and safety. You should provide them a comfortable spot where they can freely go whenever they need some alone time. It could be as simple as an open cage or enclosure that they can enter and exit anytime. Make the space feel homier by putting their favorite toys and blankets inside.

4. Encourage sensory familiarity

It’s common for Huskies to feel unsafe without their furparent-slash-pack-leader around. Avoid making them lonely by giving them an item with your scent, like a worn t-shirt or a used pillowcase.

5. Make a dog pen outside

You may want to distract your Husky using their outside environment. This is an effective way to keep them from becoming anxious when you leave. If you have a big enough yard, you can make a dog pen outside where they can run and play while you’re not around.

6. Exercise your dog before leaving

Tired dogs are less likely to panic and become anxious in your absence. If you know you’re about to leave, provide an hour’s worth of exercise for your Husky to tire him out. Make sure to allow him to settle down for at least 20 minutes before actually leaving.

Helping your Huskies with separation anxiety

Huskies can have separation anxiety, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be avoided or minimized.

In this article, we learned that:

• Huskies get separation anxiety
• Some signs of separation anxiety include excessive barking, refusal to eat and drink, and destructive behaviors
• You can try changing your pre-leaving habits, exercising your dog, and other tips to reduce separation anxiety in Huskies

Did you like this article? Make sure to check out our other articles at Husky Habits!

The post Do Huskies Get Separation Anxiety? 6 Ways To Reduce It appeared first on Husky Habits.

Husky breeds make great pets, but we can’t recommend them to first-time owners. They can be very challenging dogs to take care of and it’s easy for first-time owners to feel overwhelmed at all the new responsibilities.

In today’s article, we’ll give you 5 reasons why Huskies are not good for first-time owners.

Are Huskies good for first-time owners?

It’s probably pretty obvious, but here at Husky Habits, we love all kinds of Husky breeds. To all of us here, they’re lovable, energetic, and cuddly balls of fluff that we love with all our hearts.

However, we have to be 100% honest with you: we don’t recommend Huskies for first-time owners, especially if it’s your first time owning any kind of pet in your life.

Before you grab your pitchforks, here are five reasons why.

5 reasons why Huskies are not good for first-time owners

1. Naturally dominant

The first reason why Huskies are not good for first-time owners is their natural dominance.

Unless you’re used to taking care of other dominant pets, it’s not unusual for first-time owners to feel overwhelmed.

Remember, from time immemorial, Huskies have always been pack dogs. In every pack, there is always one leader whose commands everyone has to follow. To maintain their status as a pack leader, a Husky must always be confident and dominant.

In a regular household, you are part of the pack, which means your Husky will always attempt to overpower you. Unless you can curb your Husky’s dominance right from the get-go, you might have a hard time establishing yourself as the leader of the pack.

For many owners, especially first-timers, it can be very troublesome to have a dog that is not under their control.

2. High energy levels

Huskies descended from an ancient breed of sled dogs in the Arctic region. They’re used to traveling long distances every single day, which means their energy levels adapted to those kinds of scenarios.

Today, most Huskies no longer need to pull a sled every day. However, they still need to release all that pent-up energy on a daily basis.

In fact, it’s recommended to let a Husky exercise for at least 2-3 hours every day to keep them healthy and happy. This includes activities like running, jumping, and playing.

If you think you can dedicate this much time to your Husky, then go ahead, but if not, we really can’t recommend it. Without sufficient exercise, Huskies can become destructive. A bored and frustrated Husky wouldn’t think twice about digging into your carpets or biting off your chairs’ legs.

For many first-time owners, it’s simply too overwhelming to go from 0 hours of doggy playtime to 2-3 hours of required playtime. This is why we don’t think Huskies are good for first-time owners.

3. Difficult to Train

The best dogs for first-time owners are those that don’t need much training or aren’t too hard to train. Huskies don’t fit this description at all.

Due to their dominant and energetic personalities, Huskies are very difficult to train. They’re naturally stubborn and are not eager to follow commands even if you give them treats, unlike other breeds.

Again, you have to establish yourself as the leader of the pack at all times if you want a Husky to even consider listening to you. This is something that might become frustrating for first-time owners who have no experience training other less difficult breeds.

4. Particular Diet

Huskies, for their size, are surprisingly very efficient eaters. They don’t need much to sustain them daily, but they do need a higher quality of food than other breeds.

Ideally, their food should consist of three meals a day that contain all the essentials like protein, healthy fat, Zinc, and Omega-3, among others. You can feed them dog food like kibbles if you want, but giving them well-cooked human food like pork, chicken, or fish is also recommended.

Remember, if you can’t provide the special dietary needs that Huskies need, they may fall ill or worse. So if you’re unsure whether or not you can do this, it might be better to go for another breed.

5. Shedding

Huskies have very thick coats to help them survive in the frigid climates of the Arctic. These coats are so beautiful that they have become some of this breed’s most defining features.

That said, Husky breeds, especially Alaskan Malamutes, shed all year-round, especially around Spring and Winter. Sometimes, the shedding can get so extreme that you’ll see their fur and hair all over your furniture and your clothes.

In order to prevent too much shedding, it’s important to brush their hair regularly, at least a few times per week. For first-time owners who are not used to this kind of responsibility, it might be too hard to handle.

Getting a Husky as a First-Time Owner

In this article, we learned:

• Huskies have very dominant personalities
• They’re extremely energetic dogs that need plenty of exercise
• They have a particular diet that they need to adhere to
• Training is difficult since they’re naturally stubborn

Are you interested in getting a Husky? Take a look at all our other articles here at Husky Habits!

The post Are Siberian Huskies Good For First Time Owners? appeared first on Husky Habits.

Unfortunately, Huskies not only suffer from arthritis, but they’re also more prone to getting this joint disease. In this article, we’ll learn more about arthritis in Huskies, what the symptoms are, and what you can do to prevent it.

Do Huskies suffer from Arthritis?

Since Huskies are endowed with fast-paced metabolism, high endurance, and muscular physiques, they are natural-born runners who are able to cover long distances over extended periods of time.

Sadly, these excellent traits come at a price. Huskies are at an exceptionally high risk of developing osteoarthritis. Just like in humans, osteoarthritis in dogs is a disease that is caused when the cartilage around the joint bones starts wearing off. This causes the bones to rub against each other, causing mild to severe pain and even limited mobility.

With most dog breeds, osteoarthritis is something that usually only happens in old age. But since Husky breeds are naturally predisposed to it, arthritis can start in Huskies that are as young as a few years old. The symptoms may not start showing until years later, however.

Another health problem that can lead to arthritis is canine dysplasia. This is also a very common hereditary disease in purebred Huskies. When a Husky is born with dysplasia, it means their joints weren’t formed properly, causing problems in their body. As they grow older, this will eventually result in arthritis.

What are the signs of arthritis in Huskies?

Here are some signs to look out for if you think your Huskies have arthritis.

• Limping
• Lethargy
• Unwillingness to get up, run, or play
• Sudden change in behavior
• Unusual weight gain
• Pain when being touched
• Accidents inside the house
• Loss of muscle mass

If you see at least two or three of these signs, it’s time to schedule a visit to the veterinarian. The vet will take an X-ray of your Husky’s joints to determine where he or she really has arthritis. If it’s confirmed to be arthritis, the vet will recommend suitable treatments to alleviate your dog’s pain.

How to prevent arthritis in Huskies

While arthritis is a completely treatable disease, that doesn’t mean it’s nothing to worry about. Keep in mind that arthritis is a very cruel disease for breeds as active as Huskies, who are used to playing, jumping, and running all day long. Arthritis can severely limit and, in extreme cases, even hinder that completely.

Here are some things you can do to prevent arthritis in Huskies.

Watch out for warning signs

Arthritis doesn’t come from nowhere. It’s a disease that takes months and years to fully develop. In order words, it’s impossible for a Husky to not have it one day and then suddenly have it the next day. So if you see some early symptoms in Huskies, be sure to check with your vet immediately.

Have them tested for hip dysplasia

Dogs with dysplasia are more likely to get arthritis as they grow up, and dysplasia is a very common disease among Huskies. As a precaution, have your Husky pups tested for hip or elbow dysplasia as soon as possible, which is typically around 4 months old for hip dysplasia and 5 months old for elbow dysplasia.

Don’t let them get too heavy

Overweight Huskies are more likely to develop arthritis since the excess weight causes additional stress on the joints. Keep your Huskies at a normal weight to lower their chances of developing arthritis someday.

Use joint supplements

Supplements can help keep your Husky’s joints healthy and promote healthy cartilage development. You can also feed them foods rich in Omega-3 like fish treats or fish oil.

Final thoughts

So, do Huskies suffer from arthritis? Yes, it’s actually very common in Huskies. Luckily, it’s completely treatable and preventable, with the right steps.

In this article, we learned that:

• Huskies can suffer from arthritis
• Arthritis and dysplasia, which can lead to arthritis, are common in Husky breeds
• Limping, lethargy, pain when touched, and unwillingness to get up are symptoms of arthritis
• Use preventive measures to ensure that your Husky won’t get arthritis

Did our article answer your question? Make sure to visit our blog at Husky Habits!

The post Do Huskies Suffer From Arthritis? 5 Ways to Prevent It appeared first on Husky Habits.

Before we delve into the main aspects it’s worth getting yourself familiar with the breed. Huskies are working dogs and were bred for their stamina and ability to pull sleighs over long distances. They are highly energetic and need a lot of looking after. From daily exercise to frequent training and mental stimulation. Huskies are a beautiful breed but they do have a bit of a dark side. If you aren’t strong-willed and consistent then your husky is likely to take advantage of you and may even escape.

Is Owning A Husky Difficult?

Despite having several great qualities, owning a husky can be difficult and has been compared to parenting a toddler – they are full to the brim with energy. If you’re thinking of getting a husky then you should know that owning one isn’t for the faint-hearted.

The main reason huskies can be difficult is due to their stubbornness, intelligence, and independent nature. Huskies will often use their remarkable minds to learn less savory things and are not overly keen on pleasing their owner, making training them hard. Despite these factors, huskies do make amazing pets and will bring some fun into your home.

Are Huskies Good Dogs To Own?

Yes, without a doubt, huskies are great dogs to own. Their incredible temperament and kind nature make them great family pets. They are very tolerant of small children and aren’t known to be aggressive toward humans or other animals.

If you do have small children though, just like any breed, you should never leave them alone or unsupervised. Large dogs can easily overpower a child. Huskies have been known to thrive in a multi-dog household, this is down to their natural pack instincts. Socialization from a pup will teach your husky how to behave appropriately around other dogs and people. Huskies will get on with everyone, including strangers.

What are the pros of owning a husky?

Huskies are incredible dogs and they come with a whole load of pros. Here’s a list of husky traits that draw people to this incredible breed. 

Playful and Dynamic – Huskies are an incredibly playful and highly energetic breed. They are always there to greet you after your day at work and will likely bounce off the walls when they see you. Huskies love the outdoors which makes them great at hiking, walking, running, biking, and even camping companions. They were originally bred to pull sleighs long distances, so they have an incredible amount of stamina and vigorous exercise in cold temperatures would be very much appreciated by them. As they are full of energy they also make good companions for energetic children and will love playing fetch, running around the garden with them, and just generally being around them. 

Good Family Dogs – Huskies make great family pets. They were bred to be pack dogs, much like the Alaskan Malamute. This pack mentality transfers to their human family and as such, huskies get along with children, other adults, and even other animals. But you’ll still need to supervise your husky when they are around very small children. Just like you would with any other large breed dog. 

Intelligent – Almost any dog can do tricks if you teach them. But huskies aren’t smart in the way you might typically think. Huskies are intelligent due to their independence. Their independence makes them a little harder to train than some other breeds. This isn’t because they don’t understand what you want them to do, but because they are choosing not to do it. That’s why making training fun and more challenging helps keep them engaged. This also means they are more likely to do a whole range of cool tricks. 

Clean –  The greatest thing about huskies for many people is the fact that on the whole, they are relatively clean dogs. While some dogs start to give off that unpleasant ‘wet dog’ odor if not bathed frequently, huskies don’t. They are classed as a ‘natural’ breed and can be quite meticulous when it comes to cleaning themselves. You’ll often find them licking themselves, a bit like a cat. Regular weekly brushing is recommended to help with shedding and a bath a few times a year is all they really need. 

Good-natured Dogs – Huskies are very friendly, gentle dogs and as such are good-natured dogs. They are extremely sociable with strangers. According to the American Kennel Club, huskies do not typically display the territorial qualities of guard dogs so they tend not to be suspicious of strangers. If socialized from an early age they have even been known to get on with other animals including cats, small dogs, and other small animals.

Convenient and Economical – When you look at a husky you may think they need a lot of food, just because of their sheer size. However, that’s not the case. Huskies were bred to perform on minimal amounts of food, so it’s not unusual for them to skip a meal every now and then. Although they may require less food intake per pound compared to other breeds, it’s super important to realize that they still need a balanced diet rich in protein and fat.

What are the cons of owning a husky?

While there are many pros to owning a husky there are several cons too. Although a lot of these are minor, they are definitely worth knowing if you’re thinking of getting one. Here’s a list of cons to owning a husky. 

Magical Houdini’s – Many husky owners will tell you that their dog has escaped on more than one occasion. That’s due to their independence and their natural instinct to explore. Huskies have a reputation for squeezing through small gaps, breaking, digging, or chewing through tie-outs or under fences, escaping through doors that are left slightly ajar, and even running through electric fences. You will even need to be cautious when walking your husky off-leash. Sadly you cannot trust their recall, as their risk of running away/escaping is high. So if you’ve got a husky or thinking of getting one make sure you have the necessary precautions in place such as a 6-foot high fence around your property.

Stubborn – As mentioned earlier in this article, huskies are incredibly stubborn. This stubbornness makes them difficult to train but not impossible. They thrive on positive reinforcement and will often require new challenges to stay focused. Incorporating training into their daily routine will make them happy as they like to work for their owner, plus it helps to build a rewarding bond between you and your dog.

Noisy – Although huskies aren’t a breed that barks much, they do like to howl or ‘talk’. Generally, huskies are a very vocal breed and they can be fun to listen to. However, they have also been known to mournfully howl when left alone either in the house or in your yard. This mournful howling could cause your neighbors some hassle, especially if you live in a close-knit community.

Highly Energetic – If you’re not much of an active person then a husky could prove to be too much for you. Huskies are very energetic and require large amounts of exercise and mental stimulation to stop them from getting bored. Although they are playful dogs, they still need their daily dose of exercise which can be as simple as a long walk, a good romp around the yard, or even play dates with other dogs. 

Lousy Guard Dogs – Contrary to popular belief, huskies make lousy guard dogs because of their sociable, friendly nature. Although your husky may look intimidating, that’s about all they have going for them. If a burglar were to break in, they are likely to be greeted enthusiastically and even accompany the burglar on a tour around the house.

What to expect from owning a husky?

Owning any dog comes with costs and expectations, huskies are no different. There are many things you should know before you decide to get a husky. From health conditions to starting fees. Huskies, just like any dog, are a massive lifetime commitment. You’ll need to make sure you have enough time to care for your husky. They need a lot of exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. Here is a list of other important factors to be aware of and expect when owning a husky:

Health Conditions – Huskies are prone to developing several health conditions throughout their lifetime. Some of these health conditions include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, certain cancers, ear infections, and eye problems. 

Shedding – Most breeds will shed their fur coats. Some do this all year round, while others only shed once or twice a year. Huskies have thick fur coats that shed twice a year and the best way to help them shed is to give their coat a blowout and groom them frequently. You may decide to get this done by a professional dog groomer or do it yourself. Investing in a decent vacuum is also recommended with this breed as vacuuming may become a new way of life for you. 

Financial Impacts – Owning an animal comes with a great sense of responsibility, not just in terms of your time but also financially. There are a lot of things to consider such as food, toys, leads, harnesses, accessories, treats, pet insurance, vet bills, and much more. According to PDSA, rescuing a husky can be a more cost-effective option than buying one straight from a breeder. So if you’re looking to save a bit of money, rescuing a dog is a great way to go, plus is really rewarding knowing that you’re giving a husky another lease of life. Other costs you would need to consider are boarding costs for kennels if you go away and can’t take them with you, dog walkers/daycare, training, and even agility classes if this is something you decide to do with them. 

Husky Proofing Your Home – Huskies are known for being escape artists, so you’ll need to make sure that your home is husky proof. The first thing to consider is whether you live in an apartment or in a house. If you live in an apartment you may want to reconsider owning a husky as they need a lot of free space to roam around in. Houses with large yards are the perfect places for them, but you’ll want to make sure you have a large 6-foot high fence around your property to ensure they stay within their boundaries. 

The post Five Things That Explain What It’s Like To Own A Husky appeared first on Husky Habits.

Don’t worry! In this article, we’re going to discuss in detail why Huskies look like wolves.

Why Do Huskies Look Like Wolves

If both animals are so different, then why do they look so similar? Some people practically can’t tell the two apart.

There are three main answers: ancestry, environment, and breeding.

Ancestry

Like all domesticated dogs, Huskies are direct descendants of wolves from tens of thousands of years ago.

Scientists have been able to track a distinct ancestry from a wolf species called the Siberian wolf, a close cousin of the famed gray wolf.

Generally, all dogs have wolf traits in their DNA. But through the years, consistent breeding with other domesticated dogs has produced more and more domesticated characteristics and features.

Also, since modern dogs are typically bred to be human companions and have no more need to find prey in the wild, the instincts, ferocity, and other natural traits in wild wolves have close to disappeared.

However, Husky breeds—particularly Siberian Huskies—still have many of these wolf traits in their DNA, mainly because they’re needed in the arctic regions where sled dogs originally reside. This resulted in a strikingly similar appearance, although they are still very genetically distinct.

Environment

In relation to ancestry, wolves and Huskies also originate and exist in a remarkably similar environment: the Siberian Arctic. Thus, they share many characteristics that helped both breeds survive in the harsh cold.

For example, both wolves and Huskies need a double coat of fur: a smooth topcoat for protection and a soft undercoat to keep them warm despite the extreme temperatures.

Breeding

The modern Husky descended from an ancient sled dog breed found in the Chukotka Peninsula in Siberia. 

At the time, Chukotka people bred sled dogs to help them survive in their harsh environment. Also known as Chukotka sled dogs, these Husky ancestors were trained to have higher endurance, a friendlier disposition, and a smaller size so that they would consume less food.

The Chukchi and Eskimo people regularly worked with Chukotka sled dogs to do their trading. Much like modern Huskies, their boundless energy and strength were especially helpful in the trade.

There are speculations, however, that these ancient people occasionally cross-bred wolves and Huskies to maintain a fresh genetic pool and to improve their dog’s strength and endurance. This could further explain the similarity between these two different species.

Interestingly, some people today still cross-breed Huskies and wolves. The hybrid offsprings are called wolf-dogs and they look like a rougher, bigger Husky.

Wolves vs. Husky: How to Tell Them Apart

There are three critical differences between wild wolves and the furbaby Husky in your living room.

Appearance

Wolves and Huskies share the same basic shape and fur covering because they share ancestry and come from the same cold region of the globe. However, the differences typically end there.

For one, wolves are much bigger than Huskies. Wolves measure at 26-32 inches from shoulder to paw, while Huskies only measure around 22 inches. In terms of weight, wolves can go as heavy as 200 lbs, while Huskies generally top at 65 lbs.

Wolves also have a bigger head size, and on the whole, have much longer canines and paws—suitable for hunting on different kinds of terrain.

Even their eye colors are different. Wolves have gorgeous eyes, but they’re limited to gold, brown, and yellow hues. Huskies, on the other hand, have a much wider range. Their eyes can be blue, black, brown, and even heterochromatic.

Lastly, while Wolves typically only sport shades of gray and white fur, Huskies can have black, brown, and white colors.

Posture and movement

Wolves, being predators, are very reserved when it comes to body language. They are slower, less direct, and more cautious. They never wag their tails or lift them and mainly jog or trot efficiently. Naturally, they also tend to be wary around humans.

On the other hand, Huskies are very playful and open. Their tails express a wide variety of emotions, and they usually wag them and hold them high. If you show them delicious treats like fish or sweetcorn, they’ll have no problems approaching you and even feeding on your hand. 

Behavior

Perhaps where the two animals differ the most, though, is in their behavior.

Huskies were bred to be human companions. While they are rather boisterous, more independent, and have a pack mentality, they still get along with humans quite well. They can sometimes be aggressive towards smaller dogs, but well-trained Huskies are typically friendly with any breed. Their intelligence also allows them to be easily trained to do tricks.

On the other hand, wolves are very independent and predatory. When wolf pups reach a certain age, they often shake off training and become independent, making them difficult to train for human companionship. This is the same problem that plagues wolf-dogs, who, as mentioned above, are the hybrid offsprings of wolves and dogs.

Final thoughts on why Huskies look like wolves

Although they look pretty similar, huskies are actually very different from wolves. In this article, we discussed why they look the same and how to tell the two animals apart.

Here’s a summary of what we learned:

• Huskies share a genetic ancestry with wolves
• They also share the same environment of origin: the frigid Arctic lands
• Husky ancestors may have been cross-bred with wolves to enhance physical characteristics
• Huskies are much smaller and have different colors from wolves
• Wolves have the typical predator behavior, while Huskies are playful and open
• Huskies are very friendly to humans and can be easily trained, while wolves are independent and hostile

Interested in learning more about different Husky breeds? Don’t forget to check out our blog here at Husky Habits!

The post Why Do Huskies Look Like Wolves? The 3 Main Reasons Why appeared first on Husky Habits.