Before You Get Your Husky Puppy
Bringing home a husky puppy is an exciting adventure, but it’s crucial to start on the right paw. As Randee McQueen, a respected husky breeder, emphasizes, “Working with a responsible breeder is especially important when it comes to Siberian Huskies.” The trend for owning these beautiful dogs has unfortunately led to some unscrupulous breeding practices.
When selecting your furry friend, take the time to research and find a reputable breeder. A good breeder will provide proper paperwork and allow you to meet the puppy’s mother and possibly the father. They should also be actively socializing the puppies from an early age.
McQueen advises, “I want to see pictures of them playing with the puppies… I don’t just want to see pictures of puppies in an ex-pen.” This early socialization is crucial for developing a well-adjusted husky.
While waiting for your puppy to come home, prepare your living space. Huskies are notorious escape artists, so secure your yard by closing up any holes larger than four inches. Remember, an adult husky can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces!
Early Training Essentials
Crate Training
Crate training is a must for husky puppies. It provides a safe space for your pup and makes transportation easier. More importantly, it’s a valuable tool for managing your husky’s escape artist tendencies. Start by making the crate a positive space – offer treats and toys inside with the door open. Gradually increase the time your puppy spends in the crate with the door closed.
Housebreaking
Consistency is key when it comes to housebreaking your husky puppy. Establish a regular feeding schedule, as most husky puppies need to go outside 15 to 30 minutes after eating. Take your puppy out frequently, especially after meals, naps, and playtime. When your pup does their business outside, offer plenty of praise and treats.
Leash Training
Leash training is crucial for huskies, given their strong prey drive and tendency to run off. Start by getting your puppy comfortable with wearing a collar. Put it on during mealtimes to create a positive association. Once your pup is used to the collar, introduce the leash indoors. Practice walking around the house, rewarding your puppy for walking calmly by your side.
Basic Obedience Commands
Start teaching basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “heel” as early as 10 to 12 weeks old. Use clear, firm voice commands paired with hand signals. Remember, huskies are intelligent but stubborn, so patience and consistency are crucial. Keep training sessions short and fun to maintain your puppy’s interest.
Positive Reinforcement Training
Huskies respond best to positive reinforcement training methods. As our expert trainer with over 30 years of experience puts it, “Positive reinforcement builds trust, strengthens the bond between you and your puppy, and makes training more enjoyable.”
Clicker training can be particularly effective with huskies. The distinct click sound, paired with a treat, helps your puppy quickly understand which behaviors you’re rewarding. Start by teaching your dog to associate the click with a treat, then use it to mark desired behaviors during training sessions.
When addressing problem behaviors, focus on redirecting your puppy’s attention rather than punishment. For example, if your husky starts chewing on furniture, offer an appropriate chew toy instead and praise them when they use it.
Ongoing Training and Exercise
Huskies are high-energy dogs that require plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Our expert recommends keeping your husky in various training classes for up to a year. “They respond so well to the activity and stimulation,” she notes.
Consider introducing your husky to dog sports as they grow older. Many husky owners enjoy training their dogs for activities like sledding, carting, or skijoring. These activities tap into your husky’s natural instincts and provide excellent exercise.
Don’t forget about mental stimulation. Puzzle toys and games that challenge your husky’s problem-solving skills can help prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Regular grooming is also an important part of husky care. Start getting your puppy used to brushing, nail trimming, and even baths from an early age. This will make grooming sessions much easier as your husky grows.
FAQs
How much exercise does a husky puppy need?
Husky puppies need about 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, up to twice daily. For example, a 3-month-old puppy would need about 15 minutes of exercise, twice a day.
Are huskies good with children?
Huskies can be great with children when properly socialized. However, always supervise interactions between dogs and young children.
How often should I brush my husky puppy?
Brush your husky puppy at least once a week, increasing to daily during shedding seasons.
Can huskies be left alone?
Huskies are social dogs and don’t do well when left alone for long periods. If you must be away, consider crate training or hiring a dog walker.
When can I start training my husky puppy?
You can start basic training as early as 8 weeks old, but keep sessions short and fun.
How do I stop my husky puppy from digging?
Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. You can also create a designated digging area in your yard and teach your husky to use it.