Siberian Huskies are a beautiful breed with a thick coat in a multitude of colors and markings. Their striking blue or multi-colored eyes and facial masks add to the appeal of this breed. You may be drawn to the Siberian’s wolf-like looks, but be aware that this active, intelligent dog is independent and challenging for first-time dog owners. Huskies are escape artists, needing a fenced yard that is sunk in the ground to prevent them from escaping.

Husky Puppy Proofing

Always remember that puppies love to explore their environment and will test it our with their mouth much like babies. It is wise to take the time to “puppy-proof” your home. Things that you may not even consider dangerous may be toxic to your new puppy. Consider items like plants, human food, and even some pet foods meant for other animals can be dangerous for dogs. Check your garage for antifreeze which is sweet tasting and can kill dogs.

Get down on the floor and take a gander from your pup’s perspective. Check each room in your home. Things like cords, cables, and wires should be out of reach from a puppy or wrapped in some sort of cord protector. Many puppies go through a phase where they want to chew electric cords! This can be very dangerous and even deadly for a puppy. If you cannot deny access to the cords, put some type of protection in place. Consider a chew-proof tube to encase the cords. (1)

Socializing your Husky Puppy

The best time for a husky puppy to begin social experiences is at the very young age of 4 weeks old. By the time a puppy is just 14 weeks old, missing socialization opportunities can cause the puppy to not only be fearful but also have a very difficult time getting past those fears. Desensitization to prevent fears is far simpler than trying to rehabilitate the fearful adolescent or adult dog later in life. (2)

Potty Training your Husky Puppy

Learning where to potty takes practice and there will be accidents. Watch for signs that your dog needs to eliminate (pacing, sniffing, squatting). Immediately, but calmly, hustle your dog outside to their designated area. When the dog does their business, you can say “go potty” or another command of your choosing – just pick one and stick with it. Praise your pup and offer a treat when your pup is done, then play with him. In time, your dog will learn that “go potty” means to eliminate, and you’ll be able to tell your Husky where and when to go.

Feeding your Husky Puppy

Huskies require a comparatively small amount of food for their size. Their ancestors were trained to travel long distances while pulling a load on the tiniest amount of food. Huskies are unusual compared to other dog breeds when it comes to feeding.

Since these dogs were bred to work in harsh conditions where food was not easily available, they have an efficient metabolism that knows how to use nutrients. Feeding quality food to the Siberian in the first 9 months is very important as this is the main growth phase.

Huskies should be fed three times daily as puppies. With time, they will automatically switch to two meals per day. Also unlike many dogs, if you provide access to food all day, it won’t harm Huskies. They don’t eat continuously like some other dogs. While other dogs may eat until they fall ill, Huskies will not eat once they are full.

Huskies should be fed at least two hours before exercise. Additionally, wait at least 30 minutes after the exercise to feed him otherwise gastric torsion may happen. We recommend the raw food diet to make sure your dog gets the highest quality ingredients available with none of the unnecessary filler. (3)

Husky Play and Grooming

Huskies have double coats. Double-coated dogs require more maintenance than smooth or single-coated dogs. Their hair can be either short or long. Once a year, double-coated dogs shed their undercoat. This process occurs in climates warmer than their native Siberia, helping them manage heat. The most critical step in maintaining your husky’s coat is regular, thorough brushing. Ideally, these furballs should be brushed at least once a week.

Huskies need 30 to 60 minutes of play and activity daily to keep them from getting bored. Activities like running, jogging, hiking and playing fetch are great fun for them. Keep in mind on hot days they will need time out of the hot weather because of their double coat.

For more tips about Siberian Huskies, check out our Ultimate Guide to Caring for Siberian Huskies.