Last week, we discussed the many great advantages of the Siberian Husky.  While there are a lot of great things about them, there are also pitfalls.  To many, the pitfalls can far outweigh the good.  The purpose here is to educate everyone to both, and let everyone decide for themselves whether or not a Husky is right for them.

A Siberian Husky is a high maintenance dog.  Most Husky owners find it best to develop a routine that helps minimize the issues, and being very smart dogs, a Husky will adapt to these routines quickly.

First and foremost, Huskies are not dogs that will stick close a lay around when outside in a non-contained area.  If outside, they must be on a leash or in a fenced area.  They will not hesitate to run far and wide if and when the opportunity presents itself.

Cunning Escape artists – While outside, whether on a leash, on a chain, or in a fenced area, a Husky has one goal in life.  To get away.  It’s not that they want to get away from their owner and never return, but rather they simply want to run and play on THEIR terms.  They attempt to climb over, chew on, jump over, dig under, and outsmart whatever is containing them.  There are certainly ways to contain them, but it’s best to seek advice from an experienced owner rather than learn on your own by trial and error!

Need exercise – A Husky needs a lot of exercise!  The more supervised exercise they get, the less trouble they will be and the less they will try to escape.  So if you are after a dog that just wants to lay around all day, don’t bother with a Husky!

Bored = destruction – When not given ample exercise, a Husky will have a tendency to be destructive.  They will chew on objects, dig holes where possible, and simply misbehave to cure their boredom. 

Not guard dogs – As mentioned last week, Huskies are incredibly loving dogs, and love a human companion.  It does not normally take long for them to warm up to total strangers.  If you are in search of a guard dog,  a Husky simply shouldn’t be your choice.

Over-friendly – Is this possible??  Well, it can be.  Huskies love their humans, but will love them equally regardless of the size of the human.  When out in public, care must be taken when allowing small children to pet them.  While there is little or no danger of biting, they love to jump up and put their legs on them.  I have seen children get knocked over or worse yet cut from the toenails of a Husky. 

Small Animals – By nature, a Husky is a predator of small animals.  Cats, rabbits, squirrels, etc., are in danger around a Husky.  If raised from a puppy with a small animal such as a cat, they can be fine together.  If introduced later in life, the animal is in danger.

Stubborn – While being very smart dogs, Huskies can be stubborn.  They can be trained to do many things, but they are very free spirited, and are always testing their boundries.  Just when you think they are fully trained, they decide to test you.  With a Husky, it’s always important to stick to your guns!

Shedders – And finally…The shedding!  Everyone’s favorite thing.  Huskies are notorious for shedding on a continual basis.  They have a very thick inner coat, which typically sheds year round, and also completely blows out 1-2 times per year.  A good groomer is highly recommended!  It’s also worth mentioning that a Husky's fur should NEVER be cut!  You can comb it out or brush it out, but don’t cut it!!