Brush it out, comb it out, blow it out…but NEVER cut it, or worse, shave it!

Siberian Huskies are notorious shedders.  Their coats consist of two layers.  An inner coat and an outer coat.  The softer inner coat serves as an insulator for the cold of winter, making them able to withstand temperatures as low as 50-60 degrees below zero!  The more coarse outer coat serves two purposes.  During the winter, it acts as a “raincoat” to help protect them from the snow, ice, and rain. During the summer, it shields them from the sun. 

Twice a year (typically) they shed their inner coat.  At this time, an owner can brush it, comb it, or blow it out IF they are careful.   One thing to remember is to never cut it, or worse yet shave it.  With many breeds, you can take them into the groomer, and give them a haircut.  NOT the case with a Husky!!  If a huskies hair is cut, invariably the outer coat is cut moreso than the inner coat.  This then diminishes the effectiveness of the outer coat.  It does not grow back as easily as the inner coat. 

Huskies actually shed worse if their hair is cut.  Sheba, one of our rescued huskies, had her hair cut annually by her previous owners.  They were not aware this was detrimental.  Sheba never fully grew back her outer coat, and she continuously grew and shed the inner coat to compensate. 

I recently saw a picture of a Husky that had been completely shaved except down the middle of his back.  It was in the form of a “Mohawk”.  I am not sure what the intentions were, but this could be considered abuse.  Perhaps it was simply an ignorant owner that thought they were helping during the hot summer.  Perhaps it was more than that.  Either way, I was speechless.  I couldn’t believe what I saw in that picture.

Most good groomers know the breed, and will brush accordingly.  Some groomers have large “blowers” that are very effective.

Bottom line, we recommend taking them to the groomer at least twice a year, but make sure they know not to cut it!