Energetic and Athletic

Siberian Huskies thrive in active households and enjoy outdoor activities like running and hiking.

Friendly and Social

They are generally friendly with people and other dogs, making them great companions in social settings.

Low Maintenance Grooming

Despite their thick coat, Huskies are relatively clean dogs that do not produce a strong doggy odor.

Playful and Affectionate

Huskies are playful and enjoy spending time with their families, often displaying a humorous side.

High Exercise Needs

Huskies require significant daily exercise, which can be challenging for less active owners.

Escape Artists

Known for their intelligence and determination, Huskies are skilled at escaping fenced areas if not properly secured.

Heavy Shedding

Their thick double coat sheds heavily, particularly during seasonal changes, requiring regular grooming.

Independent Nature

Huskies can be stubborn and may not always follow commands, making training more challenging for inexperienced owners.

Exercise Needs

Siberian Huskies are high-energy dogs that require daily vigorous exercise to stay healthy and prevent boredom. They enjoy activities such as running, hiking, and playing fetch. Huskies are natural runners and excel in dog sports like sledding and agility.

Walks

Huskies need at least one or two long walks or runs per day, combined with additional playtime and mental stimulation. They thrive in environments where they can explore and engage their high energy levels.

Training

Huskies are intelligent but independent, which can make training challenging. Early obedience training is essential to establish boundaries and ensure good behavior. Positive reinforcement methods work best, but consistency and patience are key. Huskies may test boundaries, so firm leadership is necessary.

Purchase Price

$2,500 - $6,000 AUD depending on breeder and lineage.

Initial Setup

Around $500 - $800 AUD. (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $1,000 - $1,500 AUD per year, depending on dietary needs.

Grooming

Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks can cost around $800 - $1,200 AUD per year. Regular at-home brushing is essential to manage shedding and maintain their coat.

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $500 - $1,000 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups and preventive care could cost $500 - $800 AUD per year, with additional expenses for managing potential joint or eye issues.

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 12-14 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $30,000 - $50,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors.

Size and Weight

Siberian Huskies typically stand 50-60 cm (20-24 inches) tall and weigh between 16-27 kg (35-60 lbs), with males being larger than females.

Coat

They have a dense, double-layered coat designed to protect them in extreme cold. The undercoat is soft and insulating, while the outer coat is straight and weather-resistant. Huskies shed year-round, with heavy shedding occurring during seasonal changes.

Colour Options

Siberian Huskies come in a wide range of colours, including black, grey, red, and white. Their striking facial masks and contrasting markings make them easily recognizable.

Temperament

Siberian Huskies are friendly, outgoing, and playful dogs. They are social animals that enjoy being part of a pack and generally get along well with other dogs. While affectionate with their families, they are not overly dependent and are typically not aggressive, even with strangers. Huskies are intelligent and energetic, but their independent nature can make training a challenge.

Good with Children

Huskies are generally good with children due to their playful and gentle nature. However, supervision is recommended around very young children, as Huskies can be exuberant and may accidentally knock them over.

Socialisation

Early socialisation is important to ensure Huskies are well-adjusted and comfortable around new people, pets, and environments. Proper socialization helps reduce potential shyness or over-excitement.

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Huskies prefer to live indoors with their families but need regular outdoor time for exercise and mental stimulation. They are not suited for full-time outdoor living, as they thrive on human interaction and companionship.

Apartment Living

Siberian Huskies are not ideal for apartment living due to their high energy levels and need for space to run and play. They are better suited to homes with large yards or access to outdoor spaces.

Time Alone

Huskies do not do well when left alone for long periods. They are social dogs that thrive on companionship and may become bored or anxious if isolated for extended periods. They are best suited for homes where someone is present for most of the day, or they have another pet for company.

Climate Adaptability

Huskies are well-suited to colder climates due to their thick coat but may struggle in hot weather. In warmer regions, it’s important to provide plenty of water, shade, and limit exercise during the hottest parts of the day. Air conditioning or cooling mats can help them stay comfortable.

Common Health Issues

Siberian Huskies are generally healthy but can be prone to certain conditions, including Hip dysplasia, Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), Cataracts, Zinc deficiency. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and controlled exercise are essential for maintaining their health.

Ethical Breeding Considerations

Due to their predisposition to certain genetic conditions, it is important to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings. Ethical breeding practices help reduce the risk of hereditary health problems and ensure the well-being of the puppies.

Guarding Ability

Lhasa Apsos are natural watchdogs and will alert their owners to strangers or unusual activity. While they are not aggressive, they are known to bark when they sense something unusual.

Affectionate Nature

Despite their independent streak, Lhasa Apsos are affectionate with their families and enjoy spending time with their owners. They often seek out attention and enjoy being close to their loved ones.

Suitability for Dog Parks

Lhasa Apsos can be social but may be wary of larger or more energetic dogs due to their small size. Supervision is recommended in dog parks to ensure positive interactions.