⚡ At a glance
- Adult weight: Male 20–27 kg (45–60 lb) · Female 16–23 kg (35–50 lb)
- Life expectancy: 12–14 years
- Activity: Very high · 2 hours a day
- Best suited to: Very active, experienced owners; cooler climates
Key facts
| Origin | Russia (Siberia) |
|---|---|
| Height | Male 53–60 cm (21–23.5 in) · Female 50–56 cm (20–22 in) |
| Adult weight | Male 20–27 kg (45–60 lb) · Female 16–23 kg (35–50 lb) |
| Life expectancy | 12–14 years |
| Activity needs | Very high · 2 hours a day |
| Coat | Medium, dense double coat; very heavy shedding 1–2 times a year |
| Best suited to | Very active, experienced owners; cooler climates |
Approximate ranges based on breed standards; individuals vary.
Temperament
Huskies are friendly, playful and social; they are not good guard dogs. Independent thinkers, so training takes patience. They love to "talk" by howling and get bored alone.
Daily exercise
At least 2 hours of running, long walks or pulling sports a day. Strong escape and chase instincts: keep on lead and fences high. In summer exercise only in cool hours.
Feeding
Known to eat little for their size; adjust to body condition, not just the bag chart.
Example: a neutered adult Siberian Husky at an ideal weight of 22 kg (48 lb) needs roughly 1140 kcal a day (RER × 1.6). Work out your own pet's needs with the calorie calculator and check ideal weight with the ideal weight calculator.
Common health problems
- Eye disease: juvenile cataracts, PRA, corneal dystrophy
- Hip dysplasia
- Zinc-responsive dermatosis: crusting on face and paws
- Hypothyroidism
- Heatstroke risk due to dense coat
Care tips
- Brush 2–3 times a week, daily when shedding
- Never shave the coat; the double coat also protects from heat
- High, secure fencing; keep microchip details up to date
- Shade, plenty of water and a cool place in summer
Frequently asked questions
Can a Husky live in a hot climate?
It can, but it struggles with heat. It needs air conditioning or a cool space, shade, and exercise only early and late.
Can a Husky live in an apartment?
It is very hard. Without 2 hours of intense exercise daily it becomes restless and destructive.
Should you shave a Husky?
No. The double coat protects against both cold and heat; shaving increases sunburn and heatstroke risk.