Siberian Husky insurance
Is the Siberian Husky the right dog breed for you?
Our guide to living with a Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is a striking, energetic breed known for its endurance, playful nature, and independent spirit. Whether you’re drawn to their stunning looks or their lively personality, Huskies make captivating companions for the right owner.
Siberian Husky quick facts
- Size: Males: 53-60cm, Females: 50-56cm
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Weight: Males: 20-27kg, Females: 16-23kg
- Colours: Huskies come in a variety of colours, including black, grey, red, sable, and white, often with striking facial masks and eye patterns.
- Temperament: Friendly, playful, independent
- Common health issues: Hip dysplasia, eye conditions (cataracts, corneal dystrophy), and skin allergies
- Country of origin: Siberia, Russia
Where does the Siberian Husky come from?
The Siberian Husky originated in northeastern Siberia, where they were bred as sled dogs. Known for their stamina and ability to withstand extreme cold, they became essential to survival in the harsh Arctic conditions.
In the early 1900s, Huskies were introduced to Alaska during the Gold Rush, where they gained fame for their performance in sled races. Their popularity grew further after the famous 1925 serum run to Nome, where Huskies helped deliver life-saving medicine across nearly 700 miles of treacherous snow. Today, they’re still used for sledding but are also popular pets for the right owners.
Siberian Husky temperament
Mischievous
Huskies are playful, mischievous, and incredibly social. They’re known for their friendly nature and typically get along well with both people and other dogs. However, they have a strong independent streak, which can sometimes make them stubborn.
Outgoing
They thrive on human interaction but don’t crave constant attention like some breeds. Although affectionate, they aren’t overly clingy. Their outgoing and playful personalities make them ideal companions for active owners.
Clever
Huskies are known escape artists – they’re skilled diggers and climbers, so secure fencing is essential. Their strong prey drive means they may also chase smaller animals, making supervision in unsecured areas important.
Are Huskies aggressive?
Huskies are not naturally aggressive towards people; they’re generally known for being friendly and sociable, even with strangers. However, they can display aggression if they’re poorly trained, mistreated, or lacking socialisation. They will also howl or "talk" when they’re bored, excited, or seeking attention, which can be loud and persistent.
Are Huskies good with kids?
Yes, Huskies are typically good with children, but they always need supervision due to their high energy levels. They’re playful and affectionate, making them great companions for active kids. However, their boisterous nature can accidentally knock over small children. Early socialisation and training help them interact safely.
Appearance and size of the Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are medium-sized, athletic dogs with a wolf-like appearance. They have a double coat consisting of a dense undercoat and a longer topcoat, providing insulation against cold weather. Their almond-shaped eyes can be blue, brown, or even one of each (heterochromia), adding to their striking look. Their triangular ears stand erect, and their bushy tails often curl over their backs. Huskies are agile and light-footed movers, reflecting their heritage as sled dogs.
Thinking of getting a Husky puppy?
What to expect week-by-week from your first year
We've laid out what to expect from your first year with your new puppy with a series of videos and helpful guides, so you can stay on top of your training, keep your pup healthy, and help them settle in to their new life.
Siberian Husky grooming
Huskies have thick double coats that require regular grooming. They shed year-round, with heavy seasonal shedding twice a year, known as "blowing coat." During these periods, you’ll need to brush them daily to manage the fur.
Outside of shedding season, a weekly brush is usually enough to keep their coat healthy. Bathing is only necessary occasionally, as Huskies are naturally clean and odourless.
Their nails should be trimmed regularly, and you’ll need to check their ears and brush their teeth to maintain overall health.
Are Husky dogs hypoallergenic?
No, Huskies aren’t hypoallergenic. They shed heavily, producing dander that can trigger allergies. Their thick double coat also releases more fur during seasonal shedding. People with allergies should consider a low-shedding breed instead.
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You can trust us with your Siberian Husky
Agria is a Which? Best Buy for our Lifetime, Lifetime Plus and Lifetime Premium dog insurance products. **
** Agria is a Which? Best Buy for our Lifetime, Lifetime Plus and Lifetime Premium dog insurance products*. Which? policy score ratings are based on an analysis of policy cover levels conducted in November 2024. Best Buy providers have a high policy score and a good track record for paying claims. Read the Which? article.
Siberian Husky training
- 1
Be consistent
Huskies are intelligent but have a strong-willed and independent nature, which makes training a challenge. They respond best to consistent, positive reinforcement techniques.
- 2
Start early
Start training early with basic commands, socialisation, and leash walking. Huskies have high levels of energy, so mental and physical stimulation is key.
- 3
Train recall
Recall training can be difficult due to their prey drive. Even well-trained Huskies may ignore calls if they spot something interesting, so they’re best kept on a lead or in a secure area.
- 4
Give them exercise
Huskies need at least two hours of exercise daily. They’re a high-energy breed that thrives on physical activity, such as running, hiking, or playing.
- 5
Use mental stimulation to prevent boredom
Without enough exercise, they can become bored and destructive. Mental stimulation is also essential to prevent restlessness. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or activities that test their agility can help keep them engaged.
Siberian Husky health issues
Siberian Huskies are generally healthy but can be prone to certain conditions.
Some common health issues for Siberian Huskies include:
Hip dysplasia
A genetic condition that can lead to arthritis and mobility issues.
Eye problems
Cataracts, corneal dystrophy, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) are relatively common.
Skin allergies
Huskies can develop allergies that cause itching and irritation
Regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet, and consistent exercise will help keep your Husky in good condition.
What we love most about a Siberian Husky
Striking looks
Their piercing eyes, elegant coats, and wolf-like appearance make them stand out from the crowd.
Playful and energetic
Huskies are full of life. Their playful, clownish behaviour brings joy and laughter to any home. They love games and outdoor adventures.
Friendly and social
Although independent, the majority of Huskies are friendly and outgoing. They enjoy being around people and other dogs, making them wonderful companions.
Things to consider before getting a Siberian Husky
While Huskies are wonderful dogs, they aren’t the right fit for every owner.
- 1
High exercise needs
Huskies are not couch potatoes. Ideally, they’d get at least 2 hours of exercise daily. Without it, they can become restless and destructive.
- 2
Escape artists
Their adventurous nature makes them skilled escape artists. Secure fencing and supervision are essential.
- 3
Grooming commitment
Be prepared for regular brushing and a house full of fur during shedding seasons. Their double coats require consistent care.
Overall, Huskies can make wonderful pets for the right owners, just be prepared to meet their strong-willed nature with consistent training and give them enough exercise.
Siberian Husky insurance with Agria
With Agria, it's lifetime, every time
At Agria, we believe pet insurance should last your pet’s lifetime. Our policies provide lifelong vet’s fees cover for illnesses and injuries. This means that, provided your policy is renewed each year, your maximum benefit will be refreshed, providing cover for ongoing conditions.
So, whatever happens throughout your Siberian Husky's life, we’ll always be there for you and your dog!
Up to £20,000 towards vet bills every year
So your dog can get the care they need.
We pay 98% of claims*
And we can pay your vet directly, so you can focus on your dog.
No increase in your premiums when you claim
So you don’t have to worry about the cost of insurance when you go to the vet.
Free vet video calls, 24/7
Which means help is always on hand if you’re worried.
Dotty about dogs? Get a 5% multi-pet discount when you insure more than one pet with us.
*Based on all Agria Pet Insurance claims received between November 2023 and May 2024.
Want to know about our insurance policies? From multi-pet coverage to pre-existing conditions, we have lifetime insurance options for cats, rabbits, horses, and dogs, including older dogs.
Siberian Husky FAQs
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