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Everyone knows that Huskies adore snow and cold weather. These breeds were developed specifically to live in the harsh winter climate, after all. But how do Huskies feel about snow in its liquid state? Do they like to swim?
Huskies definitely donât have the natural affinity for water and swimming as breeds like Labrador Retrievers or Portuguese Water Dogs, but that doesnât mean all Huskies wonât enjoy the water. Read on to learn more.
What Are Huskies?
Before we delve a little deeper into Huskies and their feelings about water, itâs essential to define a Husky.
When most people think of the word âhusky,â they think of the Siberian Husky. However, there are nearly two dozen Northern dog breeds that can sometimes be colloquially referred to as Huskies. Other Husky-like breeds include:
Alaskan Malamutes
Alaskan Klee Kais
Chinooks
American Eskimo Dogs
Greenland Dogs
Samoyeds
Alaskan Huskies
Image Credit: coolcoolleah, Pixabay
Do Huskies Like Water?
Huskies, as a general rule, donât particularly care for water, but that doesnât mean that every Husky hates it. Try Googling âHusky swimming,â and youâll see just how many Huskies enjoy spending time in the water, and some are even fantastic swimmers.
Why Donât Many Huskies Like Water?
Arctic Origins
Huskies arenât considered water-loving breeds mainly because of their Arctic origins. Many Husky breeds were initially bred to work as sled dogs in frigid, snowy climates, where freezing temperatures make swimming inadvisable and even life-threatening. This means that theyâre not naturally inclined to enjoy swimming.
Image Credit: Sofia Dudova, Shutterstock
Dislike of Water
Many Husky breeds will groom themselves much the same way as cats, and because their undercoats contain natural oils that naturally repel dirt, they donât need baths as often as other breeds. For these reasons, Huskies are not accustomed to getting wet and can be naturally suspicious and fearful of water.
Personality Traits
Like all dogs, each Husky will have personality traits that can influence how they feel about water and swimming. Some pups may be naturally curious and confident, which may make them more apt to try new water-related activities. In contrast, others may be extremely hesitant about trying new things and will turn their noses up at their ownerâs insistence to explore water games. Some Huskies absolutely despise all water-related activities, including baths.
Image Credit: Ratthaphong Ekariyasap, Shutterstock
Can Huskies Be Taught to Swim?
Huskies are intelligent and active dogs, and both of these traits can lend themselves well to teaching them new, fun activities. Some Huskies can absolutely be taught how to swim. However, if your pup despises the water or is afraid of it, forcing them into the water is not advisable.
If you decide to introduce water-related activities to your Husky, itâs essential to do so safely to prevent accidents and ensure your pup doesnât create negative associations with water. Here are some tips on how to introduce your Husky to water:
Gradual introductions. Donât take your pup to the ocean and expect them to run right into the water and know what to do. Instead, set up a kiddie pool or sprinkler in your backyard to let them get used to the idea of water first.
Go slowly. If your dog is open to exploring water more after exposing them to the kiddie pool or sprinkler, try taking them to a dog-friendly beach. Once theyâre comfortable with just their feet in the water, you can encourage them to move in deeper. This should be their choice, however. Do not force them.
Supervision. All dogs, even those that are pro swimmers, should be supervised around water. You should also invest in a high-quality flotation device thatâs comfortable and well-suited for your pup.
Offer rewards. Rewards and praise will go a long way in encouraging your dog to continue fostering their curiosity about the water. Be sure to use high-value treats that they donât get every day so theyâre motivated to continue exploring their curiosities.
Final Thoughts
Although Huskies arenât generally known for their water-loving traits, that doesnât mean that they all wonât take to swimming or water activities. If your pup is expressing interest in exploring the water, use our tips above to help them foster that curiosity. Never force your dog into spending time in the water if theyâre not interested in it or are fearful of it. This will not only create negative associations with the water, but it can also negatively impact your relationship.
Featured Image Credit: Valeriia Miller, Shutterstock
The post Do Huskies Like Water? Vet-Verified Facts & Info by Chantelle Fowler appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
