Siberian Husky

A high-quality dog food supports a Siberian's skin and coat. Feed a quality commercial diet that meets established nutritional standards, and watch each dog as an individual, adjusting the amount and type of food as needed.

Working Siberians need their protein level matched to their activity. In summer a lower level, around 20 percent, may fit, while a dog working in harness in winter may need closer to 32 percent.

Because Huskies over-eat easily and can tend toward obesity, do not leave food out for grazing. Set two to three meals at fixed times, dividing the daily total recommended on the food label. Puppies need more, about three or four meals a day.

Monitor your dog's weight and be careful not to overfeed. A healthy Husky on a complete diet generally will not need supplementation, though your veterinarian may suggest something like joint support on a case-by-case basis.

Siberian Huskies are clean dogs that groom themselves well and carry little doggy odor, so they often need only a few baths a year. Bathe when your dog gets a bit smelly, or more often if you are showing in conformation.

The breed has a double coat, an undercoat plus guard hairs, and the undercoat sheds heavily about twice a year. During those periods, rake out the old coat with a pin brush or metal comb to remove loose hair and spread oils across the skin. The rest of the year, brushing once or twice a week keeps the coat and skin in good shape. You can trim the fur around the feet and toes to keep paws tidy, but leave the body coat alone.

Trim nails regularly, since nails that grow too long cause pain and can make walking or running difficult. Brush the teeth at home with a dog-specific toothpaste and toothbrush, start the routine early, and keep up with professional cleanings.

Check the ears and eyes during grooming. If your Husky scratches at its ears, the ears smell, or the dog seems in pain, see your veterinarian, as these can signal an ear infection. For eye changes or vision loss, seek veterinary care promptly. A white Husky may develop tear staining, which a gentle eye wipe or washcloth will remove.

Siberians are athletic working dogs with high energy, and they are happiest with a job to do. Plan on at least 40 minutes of exercise every day. Running is their favorite thing, so they thrive with a pet parent who jogs.

Dog sports give them an outlet: sledding, skijoring, carting, rally, agility, and obedience all fit the breed well. They adapt to urban life too, where daily walks or play groups can do the job, but they need steady mental stimulation along with the physical activity.

Bred to run, Siberians will take any chance to do so, so keep your dog on leash, in harness, or in a fenced yard at all times, and never off lead. Well-exercised, they are calm housemates. Without enough activity, Huskies may dig, chew, escape yards, or vocalize.

Start Siberian Husky socialization and basic obedience early. Sibes are independent thinkers with a stubborn streak, so start training early and keep it firm, consistent, and gentle. Reward-based methods with small treats and favorite toys work well, and short, frequent, positive sessions give them the mental exercise they crave.

Friendly, outgoing, and social, Huskies are usually good with children and other pets, though you should always supervise dogs and children together. Their intelligence and energy can tip into problems like excessive barking or chewing if not addressed early, so begin the day you bring your puppy home. Leash training matters, since they will run off to explore on their own.

Because they are so social, Siberians need the company of their people or other dogs and are not suited to being left alone all day. If you are a first-time Husky parent, a certified professional trainer can help; look for one who is fear-free certified and uses the LIMA method (least intrusive, minimally invasive). Working a dog in harness takes hours of dedication and patience, and good trail-training books can help you start.