How to Adopt a Husky in New York

Huskies are distinct dogs in the way they look and in their bold, sassy personalities. These dogs aren’t always the easiest to own due to their high exercise needs and their vocal nature, but they make very rewarding companions for the New York family who knows how to treat them right. It’s important you learn all you can about huskies before adopting one, as this will help you ensure you give your dog everything they need to thrive.

The husky breed can be well-suited for living in New York – they’ve got thicker coats to protect against cold weather, and they are relatively adventurous and versatile. However, these dogs are not suited for small apartments or very urban lifestyles where they don’t have plenty of access to the outdoors and spaces for exercise.

Our guide tells you how to adopt a husky in New York, in addition to other important information about this breed.

What Are Huskies Like?

Intelligent, loyal, and social, the husky has historically been used as a guard and sled dog. These pups are observant, and they love to work, and modern-day huskies require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy.

You will find that your husky is quite opinionated, and these dogs can have a bit of a stubborn streak. It takes a patient owner to help a husky thrive, though these dogs will reward you for your efforts with lots of love, silly antics, and loyal companionship.

Make sure that your husky has the care they need in terms of training, socialization, and exercise, as this breed can become bored and destructive without it.

What Is a Husky’s Temperament? Huskies have unique temperaments – these dogs are incredibly loyal and affectionate with their owners, but they can also be sassy and stubborn. Your husky will enjoy accompanying you on any adventure possible, and they will love to be involved in outdoor activities. These dogs need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy, and you could end up with an anxious or destructive dog if you don’t give them the right amount of exercise. Your husky will be observant and on guard, and they may be a bit mistrustful of strangers. These dogs are protective over their loved ones, and they are generally in a playful, inquisitive, and, often, vocal mood.

How Active Are Huskies? Huskies are very active dogs, and they are a large breed of dog, which means your dog will need a lot of exercise. You can expect your husky to need three long walks each day, in addition to at least an hour of playtime. Your husky will need ample opportunities throughout the week to run around in a safe enclosed area, such as a dog park. Taking your pup on hikes and outdoor adventures is also a good idea. Keep in mind that training and mental stimulation are equally important for this breed, as huskies are highly intelligent and come from a history as working dogs. Train your dog and give them fun tasks to do around the home, in addition to providing them with puzzle toys to keep them entertained. Dog Training with Dog Academy

---

What Size Are Huskies?

Huskies are large dogs, and you can expect your adult husky to stand between 20 and 24 inches tall at the shoulder. These dogs will weigh between 40 and 60 pounds, with male huskies generally being larger and weighing more than females of this breed.

What Are a Husky’s Grooming Needs?

Your husky will have more intensive grooming needs than other breeds due to their thick double coat and the amount of fur they shed. These dogs are notorious for their heavy shedding, and you can expect a moderate amount of shed fur year-round in addition to two major shedding periods each year.

You will need to brush your husky regularly to ensure that you remove loose fur and keep their undercoat in shape, and you will need to commit to a major deshedding effort twice a year. Your husky will benefit from professional grooming every eight to twelve weeks as well.

What Are Common Husky Health Issues?

Huskies have certain health issues due to their genetics, and it’s important to keep an eye out for the health problems that might affect your dog as they age. In general, huskies are prone to hip dysplasia and certain cancers, in addition to obesity. But they are also prone to epilepsy, cataracts, and certain types of skin infections.

You can make sure your husky stays happy and healthy by taking them to the vet regularly and ensuring they receive proper care throughout their lives.

What Is a Husky’s Lifespan?

Huskies have a lifespan that matches that of other medium and large-breed dogs. On average, you can expect your husky to live between 12 and 15 years. Routine vet care, proper diet, and lots of exercise can encourage your dog to live a long and happy life.

Are Huskies Good With Other Animals or Kids?

Huskies can be a great companion with children, as they love to play, and children are a great match for their energy. However, very young children might not be the best choice for this breed, as young children might not know how to play properly with their husky friend. Older children and teens are a good match for this dog.

Huskies can sometimes get along well with other animals, but this does depend on the temperaments of all animals involved. Some huskies have a very high prey drive and only do well with other dogs their size, while other huskies might be gentle around cats. We recommend not having your husky around very small animals like hamsters or cats, who would be scared or run away from the playful husky.

Are Huskies Good for First-Time Dog Parents?

Huskies are generally not the best choice for first-time dog parents who have never owned a dog before. These pups are energetic and high-maintenance, and they can be stubborn, all traits that the first-time dog owner might find overwhelming. That being said, huskies can be amazing companions and great adventure buddies when they are properly socialized, trained, and exercised.

First-time dog owners interested in adopting a husky will need to fully understand this breed’s needs and think about how all of the required care for a husky will fit into their lives before adopting one of these dogs.

How Do You Adopt a Husky in New York?

Adopting a husky in New York can be a straightforward process. In general, you will need to find an adoption organization or rescue that has available dogs and look to see what the exact adoption process is. Most of the time, you will be asked to fill out an adoption application, confirm your identity, and conduct a meet and greet with the dog you are interested in. If you have other dogs in the home, they may need to meet your potential new dog as well before adoption is approved.

Once the organization approves your adoption, you can pay your adoption fee and pick up your new husky. Adoption organizations may require a home check or an update after a few months to ensure that you and your new dog are thriving. Speak to shelter or rescue staff to understand both pre- and post-adoption procedures.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Husky in New York?

Adopting a husky in New York can often be much more affordable than purchasing a husky puppy from a breeder. On average, you can expect to pay between $150 and $300 for a husky. This price does depend on the rescue, your exact location in New York, and the age of the husky you are adopting.

Don’t forget to budget for adoption expenses like the cost of purchasing your husky’s toys, food, water, beds, and other care essentials.

How Should I Train a Husky?

Huskies must be trained due to their need for mental stimulation and their tendency to be a little stubborn and out of control if proper boundaries aren’t put in place around the home. You should use positive and reward-based training for your husky, as this helps make the training process enjoyable and allows you to bond more strongly with your dog.

We recommend using online training courses for your husky, and you may need to attend in-person training with a professional trainer if your husky has more intense behavioral issues that need to be addressed, or if your dog needs extra socialization.

Find the Right Husky in New York for You

Finding the right husky in New York for you is not a process that can be rushed – take your time looking at husky rescues in New York and available dogs at your local shelters to see if you click with a certain dog. And remember, always make sure you know how to care for your husky and help them thrive so that you can your dog can start enjoying life together the moment you bring them home.