Siberian Huskies are excellent pets. However, they are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. And for owners who are working long hours, this can be a big dilemma. The good news is that the best companion dog for Husky can help you tackle this problem. Just make sure that you get a breed that matches you and your Husky in terms of temperament, personality, and maintenance level.
Aside from ensuring that your Husky and the companion dog will get along, you also have to factor in your readiness in raising a second dog. Make sure that you can handle another canine so the pooch won’t be neglected along the way.
Once you’re ready to give your Husky its new friend, the next step is to consider the breed you’re going to get. Here are 12 options that have complementing personalities with Huskies:
Best Companion Dog For Husky – 12 Breeds To Consider
If you’re looking for the best breed to be your Husky’s companion, the following will be excellent options:
1. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes and Huskies are often mistaken for each other. After all, both canines are snow dogs with a thick fur, wolf-like appearance, and uncontested popularity.
Nevertheless, Alaskan Malamutes are bigger and bulkier. Still, this breed shares the same high-energy personality as Huskies. With this, the two breeds can become great pals, especially during playtime.
However, it’s important to note that Malamutes are more aloof toward strangers and other dogs at first. They require a lot of training and socialization to ensure that they are a good match for Huskies.
Just like Huskies, Malamutes are heavy shedders. Such shedding becomes intense during the changing of seasons. With that, you should expect your grooming tasks to double. I suggest that you get the best robot vacuum for Husky hair to manage this problem.
When it comes to training potential, Malamutes are far superior to Huskies. But just like their Siberian cousins, Malamutes are escape artists and notorious ‘singers’, too. Malamutes are also dedicated hunters, so you should watch out for their prey drive.
2. Golden Retriever
If you prefer a more worthwhile companion for your Husky, you’ll never go wrong with a Golden Retriever. This popular breed is a total sweetheart and a joy to raise.
Goldies welcome everyone with wagging tails, so introducing your Husky to them won’t be a problem. Also, this breed is very intelligent and it responds well to training. After all, Golden Retrievers are one of the top picks when it comes to service work.
Moreover, Golden Retrievers are energetic dogs, but their intensity is quite manageable. Nevertheless, Goldies can surely keep up with the exercise needs of a Husky.
Unlike Husky dogs, Golden Retrievers aren’t escape artists. They prefer staying within their home and near their families. Also, Goldies aren’t fond of howling or barking, unless triggered by anxiety.
Another good thing here is that Huskies and Goldies are almost of the same size. However, Goldies also shed excessively, so grooming will surely be a challenge.
If you want to skip the guesswork, a Golden Retriever would be a fine choice for your Husky. Just make sure that you get it from a responsible breeder.
3. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers have a lot of similarities with their Golden cousin and the Husky breed. These three dogs are very friendly and welcoming of strangers, dogs, and even kids. So if you’re not into long-haired dogs as a companion for your Husky, a Lab might close the deal.
In terms of temperament, Labrador Retrievers are a joy to have. They are as intense as Huskies when it comes to energy level, so the two will surely have a good time outdoors. It’s because Labs are made for physically demanding and rigorous tasks.
While Labs also shed all year long, their short coat makes them easier to groom than a Husky. However, this breed is prone to obesity if you don’t watch over its diet.
Aside from that, Labs are also prone to separation anxiety. With that, their companionship with Huskies will be a two-way benefit.
While Labrador Retrievers are energetic, they usually tone down as they age. They can also remain calm when given ample physical and mental stimulation.
4. Standard Poodle
Do you want a second dog but not additional fur around your house? If so, the perfect companion for your Husky is a Standard Poodle. Unlike Huskies, Poodles don’t shed their hair. It’s a big plus for pet owners who are looking for a companion dog while considering low-shedding as a paramount trait.
Standard Poodles grow up to 70 lbs., though you can also find them in miniature and toy versions. They are also energetic dogs, which matches the upbeat nature of a Husky.
Moreover, Poodles are intelligent and easy-to-train dogs. You just have to watch out since they can be escape artists and accomplices to your Husky’s digging obsession.
In addition, Standard Poodles are very affectionate and almost similar to a Husky’s personality. They also suit novice dog owners and they can also thrive in apartment living.
Despite their low-shedding coat, Poodles are far from easy to groom. Without regular trimming and professional grooming, their coat can become heavily matted. This is something every aspiring owner should keep in mind.
5. Boxer
Are you looking for an easy-to-groom and mid-sized companion for your Husky? If so, you’ll never go wrong with a Boxer. This high-energy breed can put up with your Husky’s tireless personality. Also, Boxers are friendly and docile if trained well.
Although they also shed, their short coat makes them relatively easy to maintain. They aren’t droolers either, which is surprising for a brachycephalic canine.
As companions to Huskies, Boxers will also benefit since they are prone to separation anxiety when left alone. The good thing here is that this breed is suitable for novice owners.
Just note that Boxers aren’t very tolerant of extreme temperatures. You should keep them indoors during summer and don’t let them stay outside for too long during winter.
When it comes to training, Boxers are pretty smart dogs. They have a moderate prey drive, though it’s not as strong as that of a Malamute.
However, one thing you should be careful about is a Boxer’s affinity for wandering. They can become a partner-in-crime of your Husky when it comes to escaping and even vocalizing all day long.
6. Australian Shepherd
Are you looking for a companion dog that will match your Husky’s energy? If so, an Australian Shepherd might be the best choice.
This herding breed is happy when they have a job to do, much like Huskies. They are sporty, agile, and bred with outstanding physical endurance. If paired with a Husky, an Aussie Shepherd will surely have a good time.
Moreover, Australian Shepherds are one of the most intelligent dogs. They are very responsive to training, though they are also escape artists like Huskies. Once they got fixated on a target, they will try to escape to herd the other animal or person.
Despite their intense prey drive, an Aussie Shepherd remains friendly and affectionate. They are the right balance of active and docile, which is quite similar to a Husky’s personality.
Just remember that this breed requires a lot of physical and mental stimulation. They will be the happiest living in a home with a large yard or even a farm.
7. German Shepherd
Another great pair for an anxious Husky is an independent breed like the German Shepherd Dog (GSD). Like Huskies, GSDs have an unending supply of energy. These canines are intense and require a lot of physical stimulation to stay disciplined.
Aside from that, German Shepherd dogs are an intelligent bunch. It’s the reason why they are a top choice for military work and even as a household pet.
GSDs are loyal canines and they will remain on your property as watchdogs. However, they also love vocalizing like Huskies and their prey drive is something to be dampened during training.
Despite a German Shepherd’s consistent shedding, they remain easy to groom. They are also fairly healthy as long as you got the pup from a respectable breeder.
As for introducing a GSD to your Husky, training and desensitization are necessary. It’s because German Shepherds usually impose dominance over other dogs. Also, don’t forget that these dogs are huge and can grow up to 95 lbs.
8. Border Collie
Dubbed as the smartest dog breed, the Border Collie is a great pair with that a Husky’s energetic and feisty attitude. Border Collies are herding dogs, so they are happy to focus on a task, whether it’s playing with your Husky or stopping the latter from escaping.
Moreover, Border Collies are affectionate and friendly dogs. Still, you have to watch out if you have small kids as this breed may nip them at the foot.
When it comes to living with other dogs, Border Collies are quite amenable. However, training and socialization are crucial to ensure that the two dogs will get along. If possible, you should consider raising a Husky and a Border Collie together from puppyhood.
Remember that Border Collies are workaholic dogs. If not given ample physical stimulation, these dogs will become unruly and a problem in your household.
Also, the noisy howling and vocalizing of Huskies can trigger a Border Collie’s herding and nipping. It can be beneficial if you train your Collie to utilize this skill.
9. Dalmatian
Dalmatians are known for their unique spots, athletic body, and versatile capacity. They can be trained as firehouse dogs, hunters, performers, and even a reliable companion for Huskies.
These spotted canines love the outdoors and they will surely put your Husky’s energy level to the test. And since Dalmatians don’t like being left alone for long periods, their companionship with Huskies will be beneficial both ways.
Moreover, Dalmatians are consistent shedders, but their short coat remains easy to groom. They are fairly healthy, but susceptible to obesity if their diet isn’t controlled.
Another thing aspiring owners should know is that Dalmatians are Houdini dogs. They will not stop your Husky from escaping and they will even join the fray.
Nevertheless, Dalmatians are fairly smart and they can be trained out of their wanderlust. Just make sure that you provide them with a task to distract them from escaping. Also, Dalmatians can be headstrong, so early training and socialization are necessary to combat this predisposition.
10. English Pointer
English Pointers are as energetic as Huskies but more intense. As companion dogs, this breed will keep your Husky on its paws.
Due to its energy level, expect English Pointers to be escape artists. They are also notorious predators who will pursue a target once they got hooked on it. Still, this can be dampened since this canine is also intelligent and easy to train.
When it comes to grooming, Pointers shed moderately and they don’t drool. This is a big plus if you no longer want to add up to the task of Husky grooming.
Aside from that, English Pointers are also prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. With that, companionship with a Husky is a two-way benefit.
Aspiring owners of English Pointers should keep in mind that this dog can be destructive if not given ample physical and mental stimulation. They are also best raised in a home with access to a yard.
11. Irish Setter
Irish Setters have a build similar to Golden Retrievers, except that their coat is more regal and rich in feathers (fringe-like fur).
When it comes to energy level, Irish Setters are almost the same as Huskies. They are energetic but not too intense.
As family pets, Irish Setters are very affectionate. They do well with kids, strangers, and other dogs, so introducing one to your Husky wouldn’t be a hard task.
As for attitude, Irish Setters are notorious Houdini dogs. They will not hesitate to join your Husky in digging and escaping the yard, so make sure that your fences are well-reinforced.
Moreover, Irish Setters have an intense prey drive, which is innate to a sporting dog. They also like vocalizing and putting things in their mouth whenever they have a chance to do so.
On the upside, Irish Setters are smart and easy to train. At the hands of an experienced owner, this breed would be an amazing pet and a harmonious companion to a Husky. Just make sure that you focus on obedience training as this dog can be headstrong most of the time.
12. Another Husky
If you don’t want to start from scratch with a new breed, you can simply get another Husky to accompany your resident doggo. Since you already know the needs and temperament of the breed, it will be easier for you to manage and raise the canine.
As much as possible, get a second Husky from the opposite gender of your current pet. This is to prevent competition and aggression, which are commonly observed in same-sex dogs.
You should also know that getting a second Husky also means doubling down on tumblefurs around your house. With that, make sure that you have the time and energy to keep up with the added grooming and cleaning needs.
Always remember that your second dog is as important as your first one. And even though you’re getting another Husky doesn’t mean you can skip training and socialization. These two aspects are crucial to ensure that both dogs will thrive harmoniously.
Additional advice when choosing a companion dog for your Husky
Picking a second dog isn’t easy for a variety of reasons. First, you have to ensure that the new canine will match your Husky’s personality. Second, you have to ensure that the second dog is also suitable for your family.
To help you decide which breed to choose, here are some points that you should keep in mind:
Consider the breed’s size
Consider the breed’s sizeHuskies can grow up to 60 lbs. and while not the largest, they can be pretty rambunctious. A small breed can get easily hurt when a Husky accidentally runs them over.
Still, this isn’t to say that a small breed is no longer possible to raise with a Husky. However, it entails a lot of training, socialization, and monitoring.
Think about the breed’s energy
Siberian Huskies are high-energy dogs, so it can be a good idea to get them a companion that matches this level. This way, your Husky will have an avenue to drain its excess energy without your round-the-clock presence.
Consider the breed’s health
Raising two dogs at once isn’t an easy task. With this, it will be ideal to get a ‘healthier’ breed to pair with your Husky. This is unless you don’t mind spending a lot on vet fees and extra care.
Personally, I won’t pair a Husky with small brachycephalic breeds. Since Huskies are quite energetic, they may push flat-nosed breeds to the limits in terms of physical exertion.
Get the opposite gender
This isn’t an absolute rule, but as much as you can, try to get a dog of the opposite as your Husky. It’s because dogs of the same gender tend to clash due to territorialism and competition.
If you want to play it safe, it’s best to stick to the male-female pairing. Of course, this is totally up to you.
Think about the grooming needs
Huskies are heavy shedders so grooming them is a chore. If you’re too busy to get another dog with the same maintenance level, you should opt for low-shedding canines.
Still, it all depends on you and the balance of the points mentioned above. Just remember that whatever breed you choose as a second dog, it will always entail a big responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do Huskies need other dogs?
A: It’s not really a requirement to raise a Husky with another dog. However, if your Husky is left alone at home and is prone to anxiety, a second canine would be an ideal choice. Still, socialization and training are necessary to ensure that both canines will get along really well. You should also provide the same level of care and attention to both dogs.
Q: Do Huskies get along with small breeds?
A: Huskies are known to be very versatile when it comes to living with other pets. If trained well, Huskies can get along with a smaller breed. However, make sure that such a breed has a personality and temperament that matches your Husky. This is to prevent dog fights and behavioral problems
Q: Is it advisable to have two Huskies?
A: Two Huskies can get well along together given proper training. If you are to get another one, try to consider the opposite gender of your current pet. It’s because same-gender dogs tend to fight more, especially if you’re thinking of raising two unneutered male dogs.
Q: Do Huskies get jealous of other dogs?
A: Huskies are sweet canines, but they can be overprotective at times. They can get jealous of other dogs, especially if you’re starting to pay less attention to them. It’s important to be mindful of the amount of time you spent on each dog to avoid this problem. Also, training and desensitization will help prevent jealousy and tension between your pets.
Q: Do Huskies need other dogs?
A: Huskies will be happy to live with other dogs that match their personality. Nevertheless, this breed is quite tolerant and can put up with other dogs, given proper training and socialization. Also, Huskies with anxiety will benefit a lot from a companion dog, especially if they are always left alone at home.
Final words
Just like any breed, Siberian Huskies are pack creatures. This is why they will likely benefit from having the best companion dog for Husky at home. Just make sure that your choice of breed is a perfect match for your current dog. Above all, training and socialization are crucial to raising disciplined and well-structured canines.
Do you have other breeds in mind? Share it in the comment section below!