Proper caring for husky puppies usually results in affectionate and even-tempered adult dogs. While the Siberian Husky is a medium-to-large dog, typically weighing between 50 and 60 pounds, and is known to be a dog that seems to enjoy hard work, it also makes an excellent family dog. Huskies, when given the proper care and attention, are one of the gentlest of the dog breeds. Some breeds need to be kept separated from children, especially small children. The Siberian Husky seems to have a special attachment to children, it is not a pet to be feared or worried over when around little children.
These dogs tend to behave well around other dogs and around strangers as well. You can usually take a Husky for a walk without having to worry about your pet starting a fight or biting a fellow pedestrian. If a dog fight should happen, it’s apt to be started by the other dog, and a Husky can usually take care of itself.
A Smart Dog, But Also a Tease
This is a highly intelligent breed, and one that more than a few people feel is a little too intelligent for its own good at times. While it usually behaves well, a Husky can have a mind of its own. Huskies are known be a tease at times, and they can be a little stubborn at other times, but they are good-natured in both cases. Some describe the Husky as being headstrong, which is probably not too far off the mark.
The First Two Things You Will Learn
When caring for Husky puppies there are at least two things you have to be aware of. One is that they can be quite rambunctious. They love attention and company, they love to play, and they need exercise to burn off what sometimes appears to be an excess of energy. The other thing to be aware of is they will leave hair all over. Huskies shed twice a year, but nevertheless manage to leave some hair around most other times as well, and the puppies are no exception. Their thick coats keep them nice and warm in extremely frigid weather. What surprises some people is the way in which this breed can tolerate hot weather.
Housebreaking and Chewing Habits
When you first bring a Husky puppy home, it’s best to have a small crate for it to sleep in, but don’t leave the puppy in the crate any more than you have to during the day. Like any other puppy it will have to be housebroken. Take it outside after meals, and after it has awakened from a nap or from a night’s sleep. It will soon get the idea as to when and where it is supposed to go potty and where it is not.
Like any other puppy, a little Husky will tend to chew on anything that appears to be chewable. This habit can easily be broken if the puppy has a few toys to play with, which naturally should include a couple of good chew toys. If it starts to chew on a table leg, or on your pant leg, say ‘No’ and give it a toy to work with. It will usually get the idea as to what it is allowed to chew on pretty quickly. It will also test you from time to time.
Huskies Need Plenty of Exercise
It will usually be sufficient to walk a young puppy around the yard, and perhaps a little later around the block once a day, and spend some time playing with it as well. It won’t be too long however before the puppy will begin to need more exercise than simply a trip around the block. It would be wise to prepare yourself for a good 30-minute walk or jog every day to keep both your Husky and yourself in good shape. If you aren’t prepared to or willing to do this, you should probably consider another breed.
Other Care Tips
Caring for Husky puppies also means giving them a good brushing once a week. A Husky has a double coat, and regular brushing will not only keep it healthier, but it will also make life easier for the owner during those periods when the dog is shedding rather rapidly. A Husky needs a bath, but only infrequently. Its double coat can all too easily trap shampoo or detergents resulting in skin irritation. The ears of a Husky need to be checked on occasion, as they are floppy while the dog is still a puppy. These dogs need to have their nails trimmed on occasion, especially if they spend any time indoors. Nail trimming is best done by the vet or a professional groomer to prevent pan or bleeding.
Follow the vet’s advice as to what kind of food will be best. Dry food is preferable, and a puppy should be given food that is designed for a growing dog. It should go without saying that there should always be fresh water available. It should also go without saying that a puppy should have its shots, a practice which should continue into adulthood.