Adopting a dog is a huge decision for anyone. Whether you have a large family, are part of a couple, or enjoy what the single life has to offer, dedicating yourself and your time to a four-legged friend is quite a big commitment. Choosing the right dog for your situation takes a bit of research and plenty of understanding. Not every dog enjoys spending time alone, and others require quite a bit of training. This is especially true when considering a Siberian Husky.
Siberian Huskies are best known for their beauty and incredible work ethic. If you are wondering if Huskies make good pets, the answer to this question is yes, but you must put in the time to ensure that they are kept happy.
The Husky has a great deal of energy and wants to be a companion to everyone in the family. They are a loving breed but require plenty of training and attention to keep them in line. These dogs have a bit of a mischievous side, especially if they find themselves suffering from bouts of boredom.
If you’re considering a Husky as your next furry best friend, read on to learn more about this breed and what to expect.
Husky Origins
The Husky is best known as a sled dog, but that’s not what they were bred for. Originally, the Husky was bred in Asia by the Chukchi people. It was their resistance to colder temperatures, good health, and strength that made them perfect for mushers (all transport methods powered by dogs) in Alaska.
The Husky is a medium-sized dog with great power and the ability to pull sleds for great distances. Although smaller than the hardworking Alaskan Malamute, the Husky is easily considered just as dedicated and great for any mushing job. Over the years, people throughout the world have come to love the Husky, and they are now one of the most popular breeds of dog to bring home as a pet.
A Husky Must Be Properly Trained
You may hear people complain about issues with their Huskies, but most likely, they just haven’t been properly trained. One of the most important things about owning a Husky is ensuring that they are properly trained from an early age.
Huskies are known as temperamental dogs. Their stubbornness can make training quite difficult for an owner who is new to owning a pet. If you feel comfortable in your training abilities, making a Husky part of your home can be quite entertaining. You’ll have hours of arguments with these overly vocal dogs when it comes to telling them no or keeping them from something they truly want.
The 6 Pros of Owning a Husky
If you’re considering bringing a Husky into your home, we’ve listed a few of the best attributes that they will bring to your life.
1. Loyal and Loving
A Husky can bring a great deal of love and loyalty to your home. These dogs are considered quite loyal to their families and love spending quality time with their owners. If you have children in the home, a well-trained Husky will quickly become their best friend.
2. Highly Energetic
Huskies have endless amounts of energy. If you lead an active lifestyle, they will make a great addition. Your Husky will love going on long walks, hikes, and trips. Playtime is a must with these dogs, however, and should take place several times a day to help avoid boredom.
3. Very Vocal
One of the things most people love about the Husky is their vocal capabilities. Those who own Huskies truly believe that they speak to them and try to vocalize their needs. Whether this is true or not, the vocalization of the Husky is both impressive and endearing when you get to witness it.
4. Highly Intelligent
Huskies have impressive intelligence and love showing it off. During playtime or one of their famous vocal sessions, you’ll learn just how intelligent these dogs truly are. Huskies are known for working things out and often, discovering things they shouldn’t. Yes, this can be considered both a pro and a con in any given situation. Never forget that a Husky is known as the Houdini of the dog world for a reason.
5. Friendly Personality
Huskies love to socialize with humans and other dogs. If you have other dogs in the home, introducing your new Husky won’t be an issue. Huskies love playing and will easily welcome a new friend into the fold. The same can be said with humans. Huskies aren’t considered guard dogs and don’t react aggressively toward strangers. They are natural hunters, however, meaning smaller animals like cats may not be advisable with a Husky in the home.
6. Healthy
The Husky is considered an overall healthy dog breed. Considering their activity level and work ethic, slowing down isn’t in the cards. With proper vaccinations and routine veterinarian visits, you’ll give your Husky a great life. Juvenile cataracts and issues with their hips and joints are the most common ailments that Huskies might face throughout their lives if otherwise well cared for and exercised properly.
The 4 Cons of Owning a Husky
Although a great pet for most, a Husky may not be for everyone. If you’re still on the fence about owning a Husky, here are a few cons you should keep in mind when trying to make this important decision and long-term commitment.
1. Dislike Being Alone
Yes, a Husky can handle being alone while you go to the store or off to work, but if you are constantly gone, they may act out. With their need for attention and love of play, Huskies will find things to do if they are left alone day in and day out. Often, your furniture or other personal objects will pay the price when a Husky deals with loneliness.
2. Lots of Shedding
Yes, Huskies shed. No, it isn’t a little, it’s a lot. The double coat of the Husky features both a top coat and an undercoat. In spring and fall, this breed will “blow” their coats, which is quite an experience. During this period, while the top coat grows, you’ll find hair everywhere. To help avoid issues with hair all over your home, daily grooming and constant vacuuming is a must. You’ll quickly realize a great vacuum is your best ally when raising a Husky.
3. Attitude
If you’re a first-time dog owner, a Husky’s attitude may take you by surprise. These dogs are quite independent, stubborn, and even a bit naughty. Don’t be surprised if you get a dose of this attitude often. Huskies love their owners and are loyal to a fault, but they don’t mind letting their dislike of something be known.
4. Location Issues
Huskies were bred for life in the cold. This doesn’t mean they can’t live in warm areas, but tropical climates may be a bit much for them. If you live in a hot area, special attention will need to be paid to avoid your Husky overheating. Run your air conditioner, supply adequate water, and offer shade when spending time outside.
Properly Caring for a Husky
With their high energy levels, Huskies need a high-protein diet. It’s important to prepare for this beforehand. A portion of well-balanced dog food is great for your Husky. This breed is known as a grazer, meaning they will eat throughout the day instead of at one mealtime. Keeping a dish of your Husky’s favorite high-protein kibble available ensures that they can eat as needed for their body’s well-being.
Huskies need proper grooming. Yes, this can get a bit tedious, but due to the importance of their coats, it’s a must. Choose an undercoat rake and a slicker brush to keep your Husky looking their best. Keeping loose fur tends to help a Husky regulate their body temperature no matter the weather outside.
Is a Husky the Right Dog for You?
Huskies do make great pets, but is this breed right for you? Honestly, that answer depends on you and your lifestyle. If you have the time and energy to dedicate to this breed of dog, you’ll find yourself with one of the most loyal companions ever. If spending time with your new dog is difficult due to your schedule, choosing another breed may be best for your situation.
Huskies are amazing dogs, but they do best with owners who can grant them the attention they need and deserve. Keep this in mind before you decide to bring one of these beautiful dogs into your home.
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Featured Image Credit: BARBARA808, Pixabay
