Life with Huskies

  • Life with Huskies

    I Got a Husky Puppy! Essential Tips for New Owners

    Bringing home a husky puppy is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also feel overwhelming if you’re not sure what to do next. Huskies are intelligent, high-energy dogs with unique needs, so getting off on the right paw is crucial for a happy and healthy journey together. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the early days with your new furry friend.

    This Post contains affiliate links, meaning I make a commission on products bought at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your Support!

    1. Prepare Your Home

    Before your puppy arrives, puppy-proof your home. Imagine your baby proofing for a toddler. Huskies are curious and love to explore, so secure anything that could be harmful, such as:

      • Electrical cords

      • Small objects that could be swallowed
      •  
      • Get couch covers

    Set up a designated area with a comfy bed, crate, food and water bowls, and toys. I also would wait until they are potty trained to spend money on a bed. Huskies thrive on routine, so establishing a “home base” will help them feel secure. Don’t put the bed or blankets in the crate. Placing these items in the crate can lead to problems, as your dog might use them to bury their poop or tear them apart. This could result in them ingesting something harmful, potentially requiring a vet visit or even surgery. The same applies to dog toys.

    2. Begin Training Immediately

    Huskies are known for their intelligence but can be stubborn, so early training is essential.

      • Potty Training: Stick to a consistent schedule, taking them outside after meals, drinking, naps, and playtime. Essentially every hour or two to be safe and consistent. If you want your puppy to learn a specific signal to let you know they need to go outside, start teaching it immediately. Establishing this communication early will make potty training much smoother. Here are some effective signals you can teach:
          • Bell Training: Hang bells or puppy door bell near the door and gently guide your puppy to touch it with their paw or nose before going outside. Over time, they’ll associate ringing the bell with going out.

          • Scratch Pad: Place a scratch pad or mat near the door. Encourage your puppy to paw at it before you open the door.

          • Verbal Command: Use a consistent phrase like “Outside?” or “Potty time” every time you take them out, so they associate the word with the action.

          • Hand Targeting: Teach your puppy to nudge your hand or a specific object when they need to go out.

          • Consistency and positive reinforcement—like treats and praise—are key to helping your puppy understand the signal.

      • Basic Commands: Start with simple commands like “sit,” “stay,” “leave it” and “come.” Reward positive behavior with treats and praise.

      • Crate Training: Huskies are escape artists, so a secure crate will keep them safe when unsupervised. Make it a positive space by using treats and toys.
          • Only get a crate big enough for them to turn around in. This prevents them from using their house as a bathroom. Once they are potty trained it isn’t an issue and they can have a delux crate.

          • Avoid leaving your puppy unsupervised in the house until they’re much older and have proven they can handle it. Test their behavior gradually by allowing short, monitored periods of freedom while you’re home or even during the night when you’re asleep. This helps ensure they’re ready for the responsibility.

          • It took my huskies until they were like three years old. Now in my case my 1st husky sky became more trusted once I got my 2nd Koda.

    3.  Take them to the Groomer Early

      • Introducing your puppy to the groomer early helps them become comfortable with the process, making future grooming sessions less stressful for both of you. Puppies are more adaptable, so starting young allows them to get used to being handled, the sounds of clippers, and the unfamiliar environment. Early visits also help the groomer address any breed-specific needs, ensuring your puppy’s coat and nails are properly cared for. Building a positive grooming routine from the start sets the stage for a lifetime of good hygiene and health. 

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    4. Socialize Your Puppy

     

    Huskies are pack animals and thrive on social interaction. Early socialization helps them grow into friendly, confident dogs.

      • Introduce them to other dogs, people, and different environments gradually.

     

      • Take them on walks in your neighboorhood, to stores that allow pets and/or send them to doggie daycare.

     

      • Expose them to sounds like the vacuum cleaner or doorbell to reduce fearfulness later.

     

      • Enroll in a puppy class for structured socialization and basic obedience.

    5. Channel Their Energy

    Huskies are high-energy dogs bred to run and work, so they need plenty of physical and mental stimulation.

      • Daily Exercise: Even as puppies, short walks or play sessions are a must. Avoid over-exercising young pups to protect their growing joints.

      • Interactive Toys: Puzzle toys or treat-dispensing balls keep their minds busy.

      • Games: Tug-of-war, fetch, or even teaching them new tricks can burn off energy.

    6. Nutrition and Health

    Feed your husky puppy a high-quality puppy food designed for their size and energy level. Huskies have sensitive stomachs, so monitor for any signs of allergies or digestive issues.

    Schedule a vet appointment for a check-up, vaccinations, and deworming. Ask your vet about the best flea and tick prevention for your area.

    7. Understand Their Unique Traits

    Huskies are not your average dog, and knowing their quirks will help you be a better owner:

      • Howling Over Barking: Huskies communicate through howls, so don’t be surprised if they serenade you!

      • Escape Artists: These clever dogs can jump fences and open doors, so invest in secure fencing and watch them closely outdoors. I recommend an electric fence and a physical fence.

      • Digging: they will dig holes all through your yard.

      • Independent Streak: Huskies may test boundaries, so consistency in training is vital.

      • Stubborn: If there is snow on the ground then you may have entice your huskies to come inside with a treat.

    8. Build a Bond

    Huskies are incredibly loyal and thrive in a family setting where they feel loved and included. Spend time playing, cuddling, and engaging with your puppy to create a strong bond that will last a lifetime.

    9. Plan for the Future

    Your little fluffball will grow fast! Huskies can be challenging as they transition from adorable puppies to energetic teenagers. Be prepared for the long haul with ongoing training, patience, and lots of love.

    Conclusion
    Owning a husky puppy is an adventure filled with joy, challenges, and unconditional love. With preparation, training, and a commitment to meeting their needs, your new furry friend will become an irreplaceable part of your family.

    Want more husky essentials click here.

    Are you ready to embrace the husky life? Let the adventures begin!

    Embrace simplicity, live fully, and cherish each day – until next time, Devynn.

    Have tips or stories about your own husky puppy experience? Share them in the comments below!

  • Life with Huskies

    Common Houseplants that are Toxic to Dogs

    • Aloe Vera – Causes vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
    • Philodendron – Can cause oral irritation, drooling, and difficulty swallowing.
    • Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) – May result in oral irritation, vomiting, and swelling of the mouth.
    • Sago Palm – Extremely toxic; ingestion can lead to liver failure and death.
    • Pothos (Devil’s Ivy) – Can cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting.
    • Peace Lily – Causes irritation of the mouth, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
    • Snake Plant (Mother-in-Law’s Tongue) – Can lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
    • Lilies (e.g., Easter Lilies, Calla Lilies) – Highly toxic, causing kidney failure in severe cases.
    • Monstera (Swiss Cheese Plant) – Can cause oral irritation, drooling, and swelling.
    • Oleander – Ingestion can result in severe symptoms, including heart problems and death.
    • Castor Bean Plant – Contains ricin, which is extremely toxic and can be fatal.
    • Caladium – Causes irritation of the mouth, vomiting, and swelling.
    • ZZ Plant – Can lead to vomiting and diarrhea if ingested.
    • English Ivy – Causes vomiting, abdominal pain, and drooling.
    • Rubber Plant – Can irritate the stomach and intestines, leading to vomiting.

    Tip: If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet poison hotline immediately. If your vet isn’t available call the ASPCA 24/7 Poison Control Hotline at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661.

    Embrace simplicity, live fully, and cherish each day – until next time, Devynn.

  • Life with Huskies

    Kid-Friendly Training Commands for Your Husky

    Training your Husky with kid-friendly commands is a great way to involve your children in your dog’s care and build trust between them. Huskies respond well to consistent and clear commands, so keeping things simple and fun will set everyone up for success.

    Basic Commands for Kids to Teach

    1. “Sit”

    • Why It’s Important: It’s a foundational command that helps your Husky learn to stay calm.

    • How to Teach It:
      1. Hold a treat close to the dog’s nose.
      2. Slowly move the treat upward, causing their head to follow and their bottom to lower.
      3. Once they sit, say “Sit” and give the treat.

      • Tip for Kids: Encourage your child to use a cheerful voice and praise the dog with a big “Good job!”

    2. “Stay”

    • Why It’s Important: This helps your child control your Husky in various situations, like when opening a door or crossing the street.

    • How to Teach It:
      1. Start with your Husky in a sitting position.
      2. Hold up your hand like a stop sign and say “Stay.”
      3. Take a step back, then step forward quickly and reward them if they stay.
      4. Gradually increase the distance.

      • Tip for Kids: Start small—have your child step just one foot back until the Husky masters the command.

    3. “Come”

    • Why It’s Important: Essential for safety, especially in open spaces.

    • How to Teach It:
      1. Use a leash at first.
      2. Say “Come” in a happy tone and gently tug the leash.
      3. Reward your Husky with a treat and affection when they reach you.

      • Tip for Kids: Make it a game by calling your Husky from different spots in the yard or house.

    4. “Down” (Lie Down)

    • Why It’s Important: Encourages calm behavior, especially in busy households.

    • How to Teach It:
      1. Hold a treat in your hand and lower it to the floor.
      2. Say “Down” as your Husky follows the treat and lies down.
      3. Reward them immediately.

      • Tip for Kids: Use a calm voice and sit on the floor to make it easier for them to guide the Husky.

    5. “Wait”

    • Why It’s Important: Helps teach patience, especially during feeding or when going through doors.

    • How to Teach It:
      1. Have your Husky sit, then hold up your hand and say “Wait.”
      2. Pause briefly, then release them with a word like “Okay” or “Go.”
      3. Gradually increase the wait time.

      • Tip for Kids: Practice before meals; have your child ask the Husky to “Wait” before setting down the food.

    Fun Tricks for Kids and Huskies

    Once your Husky masters the basics, your kids can move on to fun tricks:

    1. “Shake” (Give Paw)

    • How to Teach It:

      1. Hold a treat in one hand and extend the other hand toward the Husky’s paw.

      2. Say “Shake” and gently lift their paw.

      3. Reward them and repeat until they offer their paw on their own.

    2. “Spin”

    • How to Teach It:

      1. Hold a treat near your Husky’s nose.

      2. Move it in a circle so they follow the motion.

      3. Say “Spin” as they complete the circle, then reward them.

    3. “Speak” (Bark on Command)

    • How to Teach It:

      1. Wait until your Husky barks naturally.

      2. Say “Speak” and immediately reward them.

      3. Pair the word with a hand signal to make it easier for kids to use.

    Tips for Success with Kids and Huskies

    1. Use Positive Reinforcement: Encourage your kids to give treats and lots of praise for good behavior.

    2. Keep Sessions Short: Huskies and children both have short attention spans—5–10 minutes is plenty!

    3. Supervise Training: Be present to guide both your child and Husky during sessions.

    4. Be Patient: Huskies can be stubborn, so remind your kids not to get frustrated if progress is slow.

    By teaching these commands, your kids will feel more confident around your Husky and create a bond based on trust and teamwork. Huskies are incredibly smart and love the attention, so training sessions can quickly become a fun family activity!

    Embrace simplicity, live fully, and cherish each day – until next time, Devynn.

  • Life with Huskies

    How to Own a Husky as a Busy Working Mom: Essential Tips and Strategies

    This Post contains affiliate links, meaning I make a commission on products bought at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your Support!

    Huskies are wonderful companions—loyal, energetic, and affectionate. However, they do require significant time and effort. For families with kids or busy schedules, here’s how you can integrate a Husky into your life without feeling overwhelmed. Check out all my go to husky products here. 

    Huskies and Kids: Building a Strong Bond

    Huskies are naturally friendly and playful, making them great companions for kids. Here are some tips to ensure a harmonious relationship:

      • Teach Boundaries: Huskies, like all dogs, need to understand their limits. Teach your kids how to interact gently and respectfully.

      • Supervise Playtime: While Huskies are generally gentle, their energy can be overwhelming for smaller children. Supervise interactions to prevent accidental rough play.

      • Engage Together: Encourage your kids to be part of the Husky’s daily care. Simple tasks like brushing the dog, filling their water bowl, or tossing a toy can help build a bond.

      • Teach Commands: Older children can help with basic training. Huskies respond well to consistency, so involving the whole family strengthens the training process.

    Balancing a Busy Schedule with Husky Care

    As a working mom or a busy family, fitting a Husky’s needs into your routine can feel daunting. Here’s how to make it work:

    Exercise

      • Early Morning Walks: Start your day with a brisk walk or jog. It’s good for both you and your Husky.

      • Split Responsibilities: Divide exercise duties among family members. For example, you can handle morning walks, while your partner or older kids manage evening playtime.

      • Doggy Daycare: On particularly busy days, consider doggy daycare to provide your Husky with socialization and exercise.

      • Interactive Toys: Invest in puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys to keep your Husky mentally engaged when you’re occupied.

    Training and Socialization

      • Short Sessions: Huskies have short attention spans, so 10-15 minutes of training twice a day is more effective than long sessions.

      • Weekends for Socialization: Use your free time to take your Husky to dog parks or pet-friendly events for social interaction.

    Making Grooming a Family Activity

    Huskies require regular grooming, especially during shedding seasons. Turn this chore into family bonding time:

      • Divide Tasks: Assign age-appropriate tasks like brushing, nail trimming (with supervision), or gathering supplies.

      • Incentivize Participation: Use small rewards, like extra playtime or a treat for your child, to encourage involvement.

      • Keep It Fun: Play music, share stories, or let your kids “style” the dog’s fur (safely!) to make grooming enjoyable.

    Quick Tips for Husky Care with a Packed Schedule

      1. Use a Routine: Huskies thrive on consistency. A set schedule for feeding, walking, and bedtime helps them adjust to your busy life.

      1. Leverage Technology: Use apps to track feeding, training, or veterinary appointments. Automated feeders and water fountains can also ease the load.

      1. Tire Them Out: A tired Husky is a happy Husky. Prioritize intense activities like a game of fetch, a run, or agility exercises during their active times.

      1. Seek Help: If your schedule becomes overwhelming, hire a dog walker or pet sitter to ensure your Husky’s needs are met.

    A Husky as Part of the Family

    Huskies are more than pets—they become integral family members. By involving everyone in their care and planning around your schedule, you can create a balanced routine that benefits both your family and your furry friend.

    With the right adjustments, a Husky can thrive in even the busiest households, bringing energy, love, and endless laughter to your life.

    Embrace simplicity, live fully, and cherish each day – until next time, Devynn.

  • Life with Huskies

    Owning Huskies: Everything You Need to Know Before Bringing One Home

    Huskies are one of the most strikingly beautiful and energetic dog breeds. With their piercing blue or multi-colored eyes, fluffy double coats, and wolf-like appearance, they are a dream for many dog lovers. However, owning a Husky is not for everyone. These dogs have unique traits and needs that require careful consideration. I have two Husky boys, Sky and Koda. Learn from my experiences (and mistakes) as I share everything you need to know about living with a Siberian Husky.

    This post contains affiliate links, meaning I get a commission at no additional cost to you, when you buy the products I love & recommend. Thank you for your support!

    The Husky Personality

    Huskies are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They thrive on companionship and are great with families, including children. However, they are also:

      • Independent: Huskies are intelligent but can be stubborn. Training requires patience and consistency.

      • Energetic: These dogs were bred to pull sleds over long distances, so they have boundless energy.

      • Social: Huskies love being around people and other dogs. They’re not ideal for owners who are away from home often.

      • Mischievous: Huskies are known for their mischievous personality, often finding creative ways to test boundaries and keep their owners on their toes.
      •  
      • Mouthy: Huskies are known for their mouthy behavior, often barking, howling, and whining as if they’re trying to boss you around. Their vocalizations can be persistent, especially when they want something, making it important to set boundaries and train them early on. 

    The Exercise Needs of a Husky

    If you’re considering a Husky, be prepared to dedicate a significant amount of time to exercise. Without enough activity, Huskies can become bored and destructive. Aim for:

     

      • Mental Stimulation: Huskies are clever and enjoy puzzles, interactive toys, or obedience training to keep their minds sharp.
          • I strongly advise against giving Huskies any kind of plush toy. They’ll quickly tear it to pieces and might swallow something they shouldn’t, potentially leading to an unexpected vet visit. Save yourself the hassle and opt for more durable toys instead.

          • If you need to keep your husky occopied while your away give them to keep them busy such as a kong toy, or a frozen treat.

      • Space to Roam: If you have a yard, ensure it’s securely fenced—Huskies are escape artists!
          • I have an electric fence for my Huskies, but I made sure they were properly trained to understand and respect it. To ensure the electric collar works effectively, I recommend trimming a small area on their neck so the collar makes proper contact with the skin. I recommend electric fences with a physical fence. This prevents them from digging out or jumping over a physical barrier.

    Grooming and Shedding

    Huskies have a thick double coat that helps regulate their body temperature in extreme climates. This coat also means:

      • Regular Grooming: Brush your Husky at least twice a week to manage shedding and prevent mats.

      • Shedding Season: Twice a year, Huskies “blow” their coat, shedding heavily. Invest in a good pet vacuum and a deshedding brush to use in between grooming visits.

      • Bathing: With their thick double coat, it’s often easier to schedule a groomer monthly or every other month rather than attempting to do it yourself in your bathtub. You’ll end up soaking wet, covered in fur, and still only halfway through the task.

    Feeding a Husky

    Huskies are moderate eaters despite their high energy levels.

      • High-Quality Food: Provide a balanced diet with quality proteins and fats.

      • Portion Control: Avoid overfeeding; Huskies tend to self-regulate their intake.

      • Treats: Use healthy treats sparingly, especially during training sessions.
          • If you want a treat that is going to last longer than 2 seconds, i recommend bully sticks. However, if you have a Husky that’s possessive over food and have multiple dogs, I wouldn’t recommend these. They worked fine when I only had Sky, but things changed when I brought Koda into the mix. Koda, being food possessive, thought Sky might steal his treat, so he ended up swallowing a whole bully stick. Once again, that led to an unexpected vet visit.

          • Greenies for their dental health. I have this on subscription order. Especially when its cold my huskies need an incentive to come back inside.

      • Dog Bowls and Water dispenser: I recommend using elevated bowls to help prevent messes and make mealtime more comfortable for your Husky. If you have a husky that eats to fast, I recommend the kong wobbler. Its both fun for them and it slows them down. Additionally, having a water bowl with a good capacity is essential. Huskies drink a lot, and a heavier water bowl helps keep it in place, preventing them from tipping it over. If you want a filtering and water circulating bowl click here.

    Training Challenges

    Training a Husky can be both rewarding and challenging. Their intelligence often means they learn commands quickly, but their independent streak can make them less eager to obey.

      • Positive Reinforcement: Use treats and praise to encourage desired behaviors.

      • Consistency: Set rules and stick to them—Huskies will test boundaries constantly!

      • Socialization: Start early to help your Husky become well-behaved around other animals and people. I highly recommend doggie daycare, especially when they are young.

    Health Concerns

    Huskies are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to certain breed-specific issues, including:

      • Hip Dysplasia: A common issue in active breeds.

      • Eye Conditions: Like cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy.

      • Zinc Deficiency: Huskies are prone to a condition called zinc-responsive dermatosis.

    Regular vet check-ups and a balanced diet can help minimize health risks.

    The Husky’s mischievous personality often lands them in trouble, whether it’s chewing something they shouldn’t or getting into a sticky situation, leading to an unexpected vet visit. Be sure you have the financial capabilities to handle these surprise expenses.

    Is a Husky Right for You?

    Before bringing a Husky into your life, consider:

      • Time Commitment: Can you dedicate enough time to exercise, grooming, and training?

      • Energy Levels: Are you or your family active enough to match a Husky’s energy?

      • Space: Do you have enough room for them to play and explore?

      • Patience: Huskies can be mischievous and require consistent training and attention.

    Final Thoughts

    Owning a Husky is a joyful and rewarding experience if you’re ready for the commitment. They’ll shower you with affection, entertain you with their goofy antics, and become a beloved part of your family. However, their high energy and grooming needs mean they’re best suited for owners who can provide an active and engaging lifestyle.

    If you’re prepared to meet their needs, a Husky can be the perfect companion—loyal, loving, and always up for an adventure!

    Embrace simplicity, live fully, and cherish each day – until next time, Devynn.