Huskies are eye-catching dogs with lots of personality, and this breed typically needs lots of exercise to stay happy. Huskies are known for their stubborn natures, their playful attitudes, and the strong bonds they form with their owners. Any Husky owner can tell you that owning one or more of these dogs is one of the most rewarding commitments around.
If you are considering adopting a Husky, or if you already own a Husky, you may be wondering exactly how long your dog is expected to live. Our article gives you details about the Husky lifespan and tips on how to help your pup live longer.
What Is the Average Husky Lifespan?
Siberian Huskies, on average, will live between 12 and 15 years old. There are a number of different factors that can affect their lifespan, such as their genetics, any health issues, and the type of care they receive throughout their lives.
In general, Huskies who receive lots of exercise and mental stimulation in addition to routine vet visits and proper care at home will have longer and happier lives than those who do not.
Common Health Complications for Huskies
Huskies, like many other dog breeds, are prone to certain health complications due to their genetics. These health issues may impact their lifespan, and it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of the following conditions:
- Eye Problems – Huskies are known for their enchanting eyes, and certain eye problems, including cataracts, can lead to blindness if not treated promptly. Regular veterinary visits can catch any eye issues before they become too serious.
- Hip Dysplasia – This is a common issue with larger dogs including Huskies, and it occurs when the hip joints are too loose. Dogs with hip dysplasia experience pain, stiffness, and trouble walking.
- Hypothyroidism – This is caused by a lack of thyroid activity, and your Husky may become sluggish, gain weight, or exhibit behavioral changes
- Epilepsy – Huskies are prone to seizures and developing canine epilepsy, but this is something that can be treated with medication.
- Skin problems – Huskies have an impressive coat, and this can sometimes hide skin allergies, infections, and general itchiness. Most Husky skin problems can be managed with proper care and medicated shampoos.
Taking your Husky to regular veterinary visits and adjusting their care to their age and dietary needs is the best way to catch health problems before they become too serious and support your dog throughout their life.
Tips to Help Your Husky Live Longer
While we don’t have too much of a final say in how long our Husky companions stay by our side, the following tips can help you ensure that your Husky lives their longest and happiest life possible.
Always Choose Responsible Breeders
Responsible breeding is essential when it comes to adopting any purebred dog, including Huskies. While you can sometimes find a Siberian Husky or a Husky mix at a shelter or local rescue, many individuals opt to purchase a Husky puppy directly from a breeder. This ensures the dog is purebred and that they have the traits you would expect this breed to exhibit. However, if a breeder is not working ethically, your puppy could be set up for a lifetime of health issues and genetic problems.
Reputable and ethical breeders will give their parent dogs time in between litters, and they will be extremely knowledgeable about the Husky breed. These breeders will have no problem showing you around their breeding areas, and they will sometimes make you sign an agreement stating you will return the dog to them if the puppy doesn’t fit your family.
On the other hand, unethical breeders and backyard breeders are known for treating their dogs poorly, encouraging inbreeding, and skipping basic health checks for their dogs. This results in unhappy parent dogs, sickly puppies, and dogs that may struggle to thrive later on in life.
Make Sure They Get Ample Exercise
Huskies are a high-energy dog breed, and these pups need a lot of daily exercise and playtime to stay happy and healthy. You should be taking your Husky on at least three long walks per day, and they will be happiest in homes where they have an outdoor area to play or roam.
Regular outdoor adventures will keep your dog fit, and exercise can help combat obesity. You should make sure that if you do plan on more lengthy or intense adventures you protect your dog’s paws and bring lots of water to keep them hydrated.
Focus On Good Nutrition
Good nutrition is key to keeping your dog healthy and fighting weight gain, which is a significant problem among dogs. Not only can being overweight make your dog feel unhealthy, but it can also impact their longevity and lead to a handful of different diseases.
Feed your Husky a healthy diet of wet or dry food, or a combination of both foods, and take their size and the calories of the food into account when portioning out your dog’s meals. You can supplement their diet with healthy treats, and you should speak to a veterinarian if you have concerns about your dog’s diet.
Don’t Neglect Mental Stimulation
In addition to all of the exercise they need, Huskies need a significant amount of mental stimulation to stay alert, combat behavioral issues, and ensure they are happy. You can work with your dog by training them regularly, which keeps their mind active, and your Husky can also benefit from puzzle toys and plenty of interactive activities.
Practice Regular Grooming
Huskies are notorious for the amount of fur they shed, and regular grooming is essential to keep your dog happy and healthy. Not only can regular grooming and semi-regular blowouts keep your dog from shedding fur all around your home, but brushing your dog and maintaining their fur can show you if there are any skin issues, painful spots, or other injuries on your dog.
Plus, your Husky will feel much better when they have all of their shed fur removed, allowing them to play and exercise more freely.
Think About Dental Care
Dental care is not something to be ignored, as your Husky’s dental care can impact their ability to live happily and healthily. Dental disease, mouth pain, and gum issues can all impact your dog’s overall health, and these issues can make it painful for your dog to eat and play.
It’s essential that you listen to your vet when it comes to regular dog dental cleanings that may be necessary to keep their teeth and gums healthy.
Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Huskies are prone to stress and separation anxiety, and it’s important to reduce the impact of stress and anxiety on your dog to keep them healthy. Repeated instances of stress or constant high anxiety can lead to health complications and behavioral issues, impacting your dog’s longevity over time.
In many cases, a relaxing home environment, calming supplements, and toys to keep your dog occupied can help reduce how stressed or anxious they feel throughout the day.
Stay On Top of Preventative Healthcare
Preventative healthcare is essential for all dog breeds, and this includes things like spaying and neutering, routine vet visits, and adjusting your dog’s diet and supplements to their health needs.
Preventative healthcare can go a long way to making sure your Husky stays healthy and that any potential health complications are kept at bay as long as possible. Your vet can give you more tips and details about keeping your Husky healthy year-round and through every life stage.
When Should I Take My Husky to the Vet?
Routine vet visits are recommended for your Husky, but there are some instances where your dog may need to see an emergency vet. If you notice any of the following signs or symptoms in your Husky, you should immediately seek medical treatment, as these signs can indicate serious health problems.
- Labored breathing or difficulty breathing
- Swollen or distended abdomen
- Unexplained bleeding
- Trouble moving or walking, or showing obvious signs of pain when moving
- Continued vomiting or diarrhea
- Seizures or unconsciousness
The sooner medical treatment is received, the faster your dog can get back to feeling their bold, sassy self.
Loving Your Husky Companion
Siberian Huskies are some of the most boisterous, loving companions, and these dogs need plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and love to stay happy. With proper care, lots of outdoor adventures, and a good diet, your Husky can stay as healthy as possible and live a long life at your side.
Don’t hesitate to take your dog to the vet if you have questions or concerns about your canine companion.
Sources:
Author O’Neill Hill, Lisa, “Seizures in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and What to Do”, WebMD, August 19. 2024, https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/dog-seizure-disorders
Author Collins, Brian, DVM, “Hypothyrodism”, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, 2024, https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/hypothyroidism
