Siberian Huskies and Cold Weather
Siberian Huskies are one of the ancient breeds, bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia, Russia around 3000 years ago. Because of the very cold weather and temperature drop in Siberia, there was difficulty in the transportation of goods and people there.
For this purpose, the people there bred a dog who could bear the coldness of that area and help them. From here, the connection between a Siberian Husky and cold weather started.
Their dense double coats with undercoats being thick and overcoats being longer help them in keeping their bodies warm. Their almond-shaped eyes help them see through heavy snowstorms and their furry paws work as long snow boots.
How Cold Can a Siberian Husky Handle?
The main attribute of this breed is his cold tolerance levels. Siberian Huskies can endure temperatures as low as -60 degrees Fahrenheit because of their Russian background. They can endure cold this much because of their strong metabolism system, as it burns calories faster and generates body heat, further more their coat also plays an important role in keeping them warm.
Risk Factors in Cold Weather
We know that Huskies adapt to cold weather quickly, but there are some risk factors that may affect the health of your Husky if they are kept in cold weather for a long time, especially without proper shelter, hydration, or nutrition as it could lead to hypothermia or even frostbite.
Senior, young, or sick Huskies are particularly vulnerable to the cold, also extreme weather may lead to accidents such as risks of injuries or falling from slips.
Proper Care of Huskies in Winter
Although they are from Siberia and are adapted to cold, still they need extra care during winters. Providing them with warm and dry shelter, caloric food, and regular exercise so they could keep their body warm and won’t be victims of frostbite or hypothermia.
However, some factors that you need to keep in mind during winter are as follows:
Dietary Food
A healthy diet will raise the likelihood that a dog will live a longer life. The diet meal for your dog should have all the essential proteins, vitamins, and oils. Husky needs to be fed at least three times a day because he is a large breed dog. You can feed him dry food that will provide his nutritional needs and actual meat, such as lamb.
Give them no human food that can upset their stomach, like nuts or citrus fruits. Foods comprising coffee and chocolates may also be harmful to their health. Seizures and vomiting may result from them.
Supplements
Watch what you feed them at all times if you want them to live a longer life. Chronic sickness may result from inexpensive dry food. Supplements that are necessary for them should also be given to them. Dogs of all ages require food that is appropriate for them, even small puppies. They require a balanced diet.
Regular Health Checkups
It is important to keep a keen eye on the health of your Siberian Husky as winter brings a lot of health problems with it such as arthritis or respiratory problems. If your dog is eating less, you need to take him to the vet so you can find out the root problem of not eating food before it gets any serious.
Exercise for Huskies
Huskies need at least an hour of exercise daily to maintain their physical and mental stability. This dog enjoys many activities that can be used as exercise. These activities include hiking, long walks, fetching, catches, and agility challenges. They keep them busy and prevent them from getting bored, enabling them to lead good and happy lives.
Mental Stimulation in Winter
Huskies are known for their intelligence and smartness. They are quick learners and this makes it easy for you to train them. Because of their intriguing nature, you can give them many mental challenges and they will thrive in it. You can even hide their favorite treats in different parts of the house and they will happily spend their time searching for them.
Health Issues in Cold Weather
There are some health issues your Husky may suffer from that you need to know that are mentioned below:
- Hypothermia
- Frostbite
- Joint Pains
- Paw Pad Damage
- Vision Risk
Social Needs During Winter
During winter, Siberian Huskies need extra care and attention. You need to spend time with them and play different sports with them. It helps in keeping them busy and socialize them. You can also take them on walks with you or park dates. Give them a fenced-yard where they can play and enjoy themselves.
Conclusion of How Cold Can a Siberian Husky Handle?
Siberian Huskies have a deep relation with cold weather because they were bred to endure cold weather. They can endure the lowest temperature, -60 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the owner needs to take special care of their health, diet and needs so they don’t just survive the cold weather but also thrive in it.
