Siberian Husky Health Issues and Breed Care
Where do Siberian Huskies come from? Originally bred to pull sledges in packs across the harsh Siberian landscape, these resilient dogs are built for endurance and speed. After a long day’s work, they would curl up with their people to share warmth and companionship.
#Siberian Husky breed profile
Siberian Huskies are long-lived, athletic and highly social. However, they’re known for their piercing bark – which can escalate if they’re bored or under-stimulated. Here's a snapshot of their typical issues:
#Common Health Issues in Siberian Huskies
While generally healthy, Siberian Huskies do have a few breed-specific concerns – such as hip dysplasia, certain types of cancer and a predisposition to epilepsy. Learning about these in advance means you can make more informed decisions and give your dog the support they need.
##Eye issues
The most notable physical concerns in Siberian Huskies relate to their eyes. Hereditary cataracts, glaucoma and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – which can lead to vision loss – are recognised in the breed. While these conditions can’t be eliminated entirely, responsible breeding and regular vet checks can help monitor eye health throughout your Husky’s life. Read our guide to exercising your sight impaired dog.
##Stomach issues
Thankfully, Siberian Huskies aren’t particularly prone to digestive concerns. A Siberian Husky sensitive stomach may flare up from scavenging or sudden food changes, but this usually settles quickly.
Occasionally, some Huskies may experience more persistent symptoms – such as ongoing vomiting or diarrhoea – which can be linked to inflammatory bowel conditions. If you notice recurring signs, speak to your vet for further guidance.
##Skin issues and allergies
Does the Siberian Husky shed? Yes – and heavily. They "blow" their undercoat twice a year, which makes the Siberian Husky non-hypoallergenic and generally unsuitable for those with allergies to pet hair.
Skin issues in Siberian Huskies are relatively uncommon but can include:
- Zinc-responsive dermatosis
- Pemphigus foliaceus
- Uveodermatological syndrome
These conditions are rare and manageable under the care of a vet. In some cases, diet trials – such as hypoallergenic food – may be suggested to help identify food-related triggers.
##Medical problems
Medical problems in Siberian Huskies are limited, but one issue seen more frequently is hypothyroidism – where the thyroid gland is underactive. Signs may include weight gain, low energy, a dull coat or increased sleeping.
If you notice any of these changes, your vet may recommend a blood test to check thyroid hormone levels. With appropriate support, most dogs continue to live active, happy lives.
#Caring for a Siberian Husky
The most important thing to know? They need a lot of exercise. Genetically speaking, today's Siberian Huskies are just as capable of running for hours as their sled-pulling ancestors.
Beyond exercise, they’re a relatively low-maintenance breed – but their high energy means they’re best suited to confident, experienced owners.
##Diet and nutrition tips
Siberian Huskies were bred for hard work and stamina. If they’re highly active, they’ll need a diet that meets those energy demands. However, if they’re not getting enough physical activity, they can be prone to weight gain – which can impact joint health and overall wellbeing.
Look for a complete diet formulated for working dogs or breed-specific formulas that cater to Siberian Husky needs at each life stage. Prebiotics for dogs can help support gut health and nutrient absorption.
Given their active nature, some owners choose to introduce joint supplements from early on to help support long-term mobility.
##Training and exercise tips
How much exercise does a Siberian Husky need? A huge amount – ideally twice a day. Their exercise tolerance is remarkable, and many Siberian Huskies can manage four or five hours of walking or activity. As a high-energy breed, they need plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Without it, they can become frustrated – which may lead to destructive behaviours or attempts to escape.
Siberian Huskies are easy to train when you're consistent and give them a chance to release excess energy first. These working dogs thrive when given a purpose, so activities like agility, flyball or obedience classes can really help sharpen their focus and support their ongoing training.
##Grooming tips
When considering grooming the Siberian Husky, it’s important to know they have a dense double coat that sheds heavily twice a year. During these periods, they’ll need a thorough brush with a deshedding tool to help remove the heavy undercoat, which they often struggle to shed on their own. Outside of seasonal shedding, grooming is fairly low maintenance – a quick brush twice a week and occasional bathing is usually enough.
As active, working dogs, it's also worth keeping an eye on their nails. Long nails can catch or split easily when they’re running, so regular trims help keep them comfortable and injury-free.
##Conclusion
Siberian Huskies are energetic, social dogs who love a challenge and thrive on adventure. They do best in active households – particularly with other dogs – and are known for forming strong bonds with their people. If you’re outdoorsy and ready to match their stamina, a Siberian Husky could be the perfect companion. With their relatively low number of health concerns and impressive life expectancy, they’re a rewarding breed for the right owner.
