Huskies originated in northeastern Asia as endurance sled dogs for the Chukchi people. Huskies’ snow-filled heritage can also account for their gorgeous, iconic coats that make them so recognizable. While Huskies’ coats may be stunning, they also require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and under control.

If you are considering adding a Husky into your fur family, you have made a great decision. Siberian Huskies are intelligent, energetic, friendly, pack dogs that get along well with almost everyone. However, every Husky’s lovable temperament also comes with a thick coat of fur that you are responsible to maintain. Although Husky grooming is a small price to pay for their affection and loyalty, it is crucial to learn how to groom a Husky so that you can keep his coat healthy and keep his fur from ending up all over your home.

Husky Coats

Huskies have beautiful, thick coats, which are known for keeping them warm during snowy winters. This lush, thick appearance of hair comes from their coats’ double layer. Huskies have a two-layered coat– a top coat and an undercoat. Due to this double-layered coat, Huskies can shed quite a bit of hair.

When Huskies do not receive regular dog grooming, their shedding can become excessive. Since their fur is typically black and white, their shedding will be apparent when it is all over the floor.

Additionally, when Huskies are not brushed regularly, this can lead to a buildup of oil and dander on their skin, causing irritation. However, all of this is avoidable with regular grooming.

The key to Siberian Husky grooming is to make it a daily routine. At least once a year, Huskies will shed their entire undercoat.

During this time, it is very important that you brush your Husky’s fur daily. Do this for short periods of time throughout your dog’s entire body. If you brush your Husky daily, you will not have to deal with matting, a buildup of dirt, or excess shedding.

Husky Grooming Process

Start by brushing your Husky’s coat with an undercoat rake. This is a wide-toothed comb that is designed to pull out excess fur from the undercoat that may otherwise get missed with a regular brush. Once you have worked your way through the coat with the undercoat rake, use a regular slicker brush to comb through the upper layer.

By utilizing both brushes, you will be sure to remove all excess fur. During shedding season, which will happen once or twice a year, you should brush your Husky daily. On the offseason, brushing your Husky every few days or once a week is sufficient.

Contrary to what one might assume, Huskies should not be trimmed or shaved, even if they live in a warm climate. Each layer of your Husky’s fur serves a crucial purpose. The undercoat acts as insulation during the cold months and the outer layer protects from the sun’s warmth and rays. If Huskies are trimmed or shaven, they become at risk for heat stroke because their cooling outer layer has been removed, but the warm insulation still remains. Therefore, you do not need to worry about shaving or styling your Husky’s fur.

Huskies do not require shaving or trimming, and they also do not need many baths. Huskies are naturally clean dogs, with less oily fur than many breeds.

When over-bathed, this can strip the coat of its natural oils and irritate the skin. Unless your Husky gets into mud or desperately needs a bath for another reason, you can limit your Husky’s baths to a couple a year.

This is less work for you and keeps your Husky’s coat happy! When bath time does roll around, you can take your pup to the groomers or wash him yourself. If you opt to do it at home, fill the tub with lukewarm water, making sure it is not hot.

Gently get your Husky’s entire coat wet before using an organic oatmeal shampoo and conditioner to wash the coat. After you have thoroughly rinsed all shampoo and conditioner off of your dog, dry him off as much as possible using a towel. You can use a blowdryer as well, but make sure it is set to “cool” instead of warm or hot.

Overall, grooming a Siberian Husky is a simple task that primarily involves regular brushing. By committing to a routine, your Husky’s coat will be healthier and it will minimize shedding. This daily routine can be a great bonding experience for you and your dog, and it will keep his coat looking and feeling its best.