How To Tell if Owning a Husky Is Right for You

Siberian Huskies are working sled dogs with long, thick fur and distinctive markings that range from nearly pure white, to gray, brown, or black and white.

Siberian Huskies are working sled dogs with long, thick fur and distinctive markings that range from nearly pure white, to gray, brown, or black and white. They are intelligent and friendly dogs who reach medium heights and weights between 35 and 60 pounds. If you are considering a Husky, know they are lifetime commitments as they live to be 12-15 years old. It's also important to consider their other traits and needs before bringing a Husky into your home.

You Want a Dog That Is Into Cleanliness

Many dog breeds tend to be messy, but that isn't the case with huskies. Huskies tend to be very clean dogs. They like to keep their coats clean and don't have the "dog odor" that many breeds tend to have. Their coats also have less dander than some other breeds, making them a better option for those who are sensitive to dogs. Huskies are even cleaner eaters than most other breeds. They eat calmly and like to keep their food areas clean and free of mess.

Despite their tendencies to be cleaner than other dog breeds, it's important to remember that above all else, Huskies are still dogs. Even though they like to keep their coats clean, they still love to splash around in puddles and still need bathing from time to time. It's also important to note that Huskies are not hypoallergenic. All dogs have dander, so no dog is truly safe for someone with severe allergies. Consider this before bringing one home. They'll also still need regular brushing due to their long hair. A Husky sheds quite a lot, so regular grooming and vacuuming will be essential to keep your home clean.

You Live in a Cold Environment

Siberian Huskies love cold climates. If you live in a place that gets a lot of cold wind, frozen ground, and snowstorms during the winter, your husky would love it. They'll often spend time just laying in the snow, much to the worry of some owners. Despite how cold it is to you or even other dogs, a Husky will be fine in this weather.

That doesn't mean you should avoid owning a Husky if you live in a warm or even hot climate, though. Plenty of owners live in warm southern climates. Huskies have a double coat, which means they are comfortably able to handle the extreme cold and extreme heat. You will need to take extra precautions during hot months, though. If you decide to bring a Husky into your home, make sure he has plenty of ice-cold water during the hot months and don't allow him to spend too much time outside during the hottest parts of the day. Additionally, ensure you protect his paws during walks by having him wear dog shoes.

You Want a Dog That Likes To Talk To You

Most dogs bark when someone knocks or if they see a squirrel. Huskies go above and beyond, though, so expect a very vocal dog if you decide to bring one into your home. They don't just bark, either. Huskies will whine, howl, groan, and even seem to say actual human phrases sometimes. Their love of talking is due to their original breeding as sled dogs. Living in large packs and needing to communicate while transporting items helped them to develop strong vocal skills. If you aren't prepared for a mouthy breed, or if you live in an apartment complex with thin walls, you may want to consider a different breed.

You Want an Independent But Friendly Dog

Huskies are very independent dogs. They tend to be more reserved and dignified when they reach the age of maturity (perhaps like a much larger, furrier cat). They'll spend time alone, play on their own, and generally don't mind minimal contact with their humans.

That doesn't mean they don't need any contact, though. They do still love playtime and cuddle time with their humans sometimes. One thing to keep in mind is that Huskies don't make good guard dogs and aren't typically loyal to just one person. They are very sociable and easygoing and generally will take to anyone who is kind to them. They are also a strong pack breed and usually do best in a home that has at least one other dog.

You Have a Lot of Energy

Huskies are very high-energy breeds and need plenty of time to run around and be active every day. If you are gone long hours each day, don't have the energy for dog parks or long walks, or simply don't want to deal with a high-energy breed, then a Husky is not for you. However, if you are someone who likes to run, jog, or swim with your dogs, or if you have a fenced yard, then you may be the right owner for one.

You'll need to take some precautions, though. Huskies are very intelligent dogs. If you don't provide enough mental stimulation for them, or if you own a yard without a privacy fence of at least six feet, you may find that your Husky is an excellent escape artist. Chasing him through neighbors' yards is no fun for you and not safe for him, so avoid Huskies if you don't have the will to keep them entertained. Luckily, you can find plenty of mentally stimulating dog toys on the market to help.

Huskies are high-energy, independent, and very vocal, but they are also friendly, outgoing, and beautiful dogs who make excellent pets for the right owner. If you think one is right for you, consider working with a rescue organization to find the right Husky for your home.