Huskies are known for their thick, distinctive double coats and ability to shed large amounts of fur, especially as the seasons change between hot and cold. If you own a husky, or if you are interested in adopting a husky, you may be wondering the best way to care for their coat.
In this guide, we tell you all about the husky’s grooming needs, including whether or not you can shave a husky. Proper coat care will help your husky feel and look their best.
Understanding Your Husky’s Coat
The husky is a breed who has adapted to live in cold climates. As a result, they have a double coat comprised of a short, dense undercoat that helps insulate them from extreme temperatures, and a longer, water-resistant outer coat.
This thick double coat is what gives the husky their fluffy and lush feel, and it can make petting them very enjoyable (and therapeutic). However, because the husky has an undercoat, they shed more often than other breeds. They need regular grooming and brushing to help ensure that their coat stays free of tangles and excess fur.
Can You Shave a Husky?
If you want to take care of your husky’s coat, you may think that shaving is the best way to keep your dog feeling their best. However, you should never shave a husky’s coat.
As a double-coated dog, shaving their coat down to the undercoat can result in the coat being destroyed, and it may never grow back the right way. This can leave your dog unable to regulate their temperature properly, and it can even lead to health complications.
A husky’s coat is typically only shaved in circumstances like medical emergencies, where there is no other option, and even then, many veterinarians will try to avoid shaving their fur.
How Do I Properly Groom My Husky?
Now that you know shaving your husky is not a good idea, you might be wondering what the best way to keep their coat in shape is. We generally recommend professional grooming every other month, and regular brushing at home a few times a week.
You will need at least two main types of brushes to take care of your husky. This includes an undercoat rake that helps you detangle and remove shed fur, and a slicker brush that helps you clean up the fur and smooth out the top layer of guard hairs.
Another benefit of keeping up a regular grooming routine is that it allows you to easily catch any skin conditions, ticks, or painful spots on your pup’s body. You can talk to your vet if you have questions or concerns about your husky’s health.
Where Do I Buy a Husky Puppy?
If all of this sounds manageable to you, and you’re also happy with their high exercise needs and sassy personality, you might be wondering where to get a husky.
In general, husky puppies will need to be purchased from a breeder. However, you should make sure that the breeder you work with is reputable and ethical, and keeps their dogs’ health and needs in mind.
You can check out Dog Academy’s guide on purchasing a husky puppy, as there are several other important factors you need to consider when searching for the perfect dog to add to your family.
Closing Thoughts on Can You Shave a Husky
Huskies are unique yet lovable dogs, and they do have more high-maintenance grooming and exercise needs than some other breeds.
However, as long as you research what it takes to care for the husky and ensure that you never shave their coat, you will help them feel and look their best as they enjoy life by your side.
