The Siberian Husky also known as the Husky Sibe is a gorgeous dog breed! It’s one that is lovable, hard-working, and more than a bit of a handful if you let them get away with too much! However, what many prospective dog owners may wish to know before taking on their own Siberian husky or sled dog is their life expectancy. How long can you expect to enjoy the company of a Siberian husky in the long run?
What is the Common Siberian Husky Lifespan?
Siberian huskies can live for around 12 to 15 years with caring owners. However, there are a few factors which can impact their lifespans. Generally, if you are providing your Siberian husky with the right nutrition, plenty of exercise and are keeping them up to date on vaccinations, there are no reasons why they won’t live to a ripe old age.
The life expectancy of a Siberian husky can also vary from case to case. For example, some rescue pets may not live as long as those huskies you may rear from pups. That said, environment and diet can have just as much of an effect as anything else. Look after your Siberian husky and you should have nothing to worry about.
What Makes a Siberian Husky a Good Pet?
The Siberian husky is known for being a mischievous breed of dog famous for pulling sleds. This is a loving and excitable dog that can grow to a fair size, meaning that you’re going to need to be strong enough to handle them at their most boisterous. What’s more, you are also going to have to make plenty of space for a dog of this size!
A Siberian husky is likely to be a huge bundle of energy. They demand a lot of exercise and playtime, which means if you are looking for a dog that works hard, plays hard and loves its rest, you might just have found your perfect pet. However, even into their advanced years of living, a Siberian husky is likely to continue demanding long runs and lots of play.
This is a dog which is a great fit for young families and active people, particularly those who have plenty of time to give them the exercise and attention they demand. As this is such an active breed of dog, if you have reduced mobility or struggle to get out and about much, you may wish to look for dogs with gentler expectations.
That said, these wonderful dogs can give you years of love and attention. They care deeply about everyone in the pack – and a Siberian husky is going to give you a lifetime of loyalty and love. What more could you really want from a dog?
Therefore – it makes sense to pay attention to the average Siberian husky expectancy and to ensure they live as long and as happy a time with you as possible. Treat your dogs well, and they will stick with you!
What Health Issues Can Huskies Die From?
Unfortunately, with Siberian Huskies, there are going to be a few health problems which can impact on the average Siberian husky life span. As a very active and specific breed of dog, they may be at risk of conditions specific to their joints and mobility. before you consider breeding or rehoming dogs of this nature, ensure that you check what might be likely to impact the life expectancy of sled dogs in general.
Hip Dysplasia
This breed of dog is, unfortunately, at risk of developing hereditary hip problems. Hip dysplasia is a condition that can affect the mobility and relief of the hips and their movement. In many cases, this can result in inflammation and ongoing pain for an affected husky.
Hip problems for a Siberian husky or similar dog breeds will, generally, lead to mild pain and stiffness. However, this may worsen in later years. If this is the case, then for the best quality of living, and to lower pain, a dog may need to undergo a hip replacement.
This surgery is invasive and may be necessary in many cases. Sadly, a dog may need to be put to sleep if it appears that there is no humane way to lessen ongoing agony. That is why this hereditary problem could, in the long run, affect the life expectancy of your dog.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
A husky is a dog breed which may also be at risk of developing moderate to severe eye and sight problems. PRA occurs, again, as a result of hereditary conditions.
Specifically, PRA can affect the thinning of dogs’ retinas. This means that, even from their early years, a husky or similar dog might be at risk of blindness. On its own, PRA does not pose any specific danger to the life span of a husky or similar dog. However, it can affect their mobility, and as a husky is such an active dog, this means that they may be at risk of suffering physical accidents.
Therefore, to increase the life expectancy of your husky, you are going to need to be their eyes and ears when out and about in public.
Other Eye Problems
Typically, these loving and boisterous dogs will be at risk of other eye conditions from an early age. This dog breed may be at particular risk of developing cataracts, which can restrict vision. A husky may also develop glaucoma in later years, which is a painful condition which can also impact sight.
However, providing you care for your dog well, there is no reason why these conditions should impact on the Siberian husky life span. As always, you must be sure that you exercise and feed your husky healthily. It is a lot of work, but you will be giving lots of wonderful years back to your dog.
How Can You Help a Siberian Husky Lead a Healthy Life?
There are plenty of ways to maximise the years you’ll have with your husky. To start, Huskies need a lot of exercise. While they are bundles of energy at the best of times, if you keep treating them and going lax on walks and playtime, you are going to add unnecessary pounds to their weight. Any breed of overweight dog is at risk of more life-threatening conditions than most.
Otherwise, always ensure you keep your dog topped up on vaccinations and regular vet visits. Ensure your dog has access to freshwater, fresh air, and lots of love. With plenty of space and the best dog food, a husky is going to be a happy, healthy dog with incredible life expectancy.
Cases may vary. However, giving your dog the best exercise and routine you can ensure their life expectancy maxes out to the fullest. This is a dog breed that demands time, attention, and lots of energy! Are you up to the challenge? Of course, you are!
