As a Husky owner, what health concerns should you be aware of? Huskies are prone to the following:

Cataracts – Eye issues are prevalent in this breed and Cataracts can form early on in a Husky’s life.

Hip Dysplasia – This is a joint issue that occurs when the hip socket and the ball joint grow at different rates causing the hip joint to slip out of place.

Corneal Dystrophy – This affects the cells in the eye and a sign that your pet is experiencing this is when the cornea itself appears opaque.

While their appearance is usually what makes potential dog owners fall head over heels for them, their thick and coarse coats take a lot of upkeep. Owners must be prepared to take on their extensive grooming requirements. Huskies are a high shedding breed so you will need to be prepared for your home and car to be a magnet for dog hair.

Short walks are not sufficient for a Husky. If you take on a Husky, you must be prepared to keep your pet mentally and physically stimulated. 90 minutes of exercise per day is recommended to help your Husky burn off any pent-up energy. Without sufficient exercise, your Husky will display destructive behaviour which can present itself in a number of ways from excessive digging in your garden to chewing up your shoes.

So how much can you expect a Husky to cost? Huskies are notoriously a bit of a handful to train and as a result, can often end up at shelters where you don’t have to pay to take one home. If you get a Husky from a reputable breeder, you can expect to pay between £382 and £900. It is always advisable to use a reputable breeder so you know the medical history of the dog’s parents and your pet will have had the recommended vaccinations and healthcare from birth.

Huskies have a tendency to be very stubborn and strong willed and as a result they can be frustrating to train. However, with the use of treat based rewards and creative training methods you can get a Husky to successfully follow commands. Due to the intelligence and independence of this breed, they are better suited to experienced dog owners.

Huskies have a long lifespan and can live around 12 to 14 years. This makes them a great match for someone who is looking for a long-term companion.  

Huskies are strong and sturdy dogs, but they are still vulnerable to certain health concerns. Having pet insurance can help to protect you against those unexpected vet bills. You can find out more about your cover options benefits with Asda Money Dog Insurance here.