Beat The Summer Heat: Can You Leave A Husky Outside In Summer

your furry friend. Huskies are breeds more prone to heat exhaustion, so it’s important to take extra precautions when the weather gets warm. But is it okay to leave a husky outside in summer?

Most individuals see a Husky in a frigid region, generally tied to a dog sled and racing through a snowstorm. Those individuals do not see that Huskies are very fit and can take breaks from the cold.

This article will go over some tips to help you keep your husky safe in the summer months. We will also provide you with information about how heat exhaustion works and what symptoms to look out for.

Can You Leave A Husky Outside In Summer?

Huskies are quite adaptable to hot weather and can tolerate it as long as they get plenty of fluids. So, huskies don’t hate hot climates. However, they need extra care to prevent heat exhaustion, which is a danger for all dogs in the summer months.

Because of their distinctive coats, husky owners often believe that their dogs cannot endure high weather. While it is not wholly incorrect, it does not provide you with a clear picture of the truth. Huskies have a double coat that helps protect them from both cold and heat. The topcoat is waterproof and keeps the dog dry, while the undercoat is dense and insulating. In the summer, the undercoat sheds to help keep the husky cool.

While this process does help, it is not entirely foolproof. If the temperature is too high or the humidity too low, your husky can still overheat. In addition, if your Husky is overweight, has a heart condition, or is not used to exercising in the heat, they will be more susceptible to heat exhaustion.

Having a husky comes with many responsibilities, and one of those is to make sure they are safe and comfortable in all conditions. With a little planning, you can enjoy the summer weather with your husky by your side.

Huskies in Hot Weather: The Science Behind

Huskies are among the dog breeds with beautiful eye colors, sharp ears, and stunning coats. But they are also known to be used as sled dogs. They can handle cold environments because of their thick coat, but how do they fare when it heats up?

Here are some essential things to know about huskies and hot weather:

Huskies’ Coats

As mentioned above, the coat of a Husky is thick and double-layered. The topcoat comprises long, straight hairs that protect the dog from getting wet. The undercoat is shorter, denser hairs that work to insulate the dog in cold weather.

In the summer, the undercoat sheds to help keep the husky cool. This process is called “blowing coat” and usually happens once or twice a year. However, it can also happen in the spring and fall when the weather changes quickly.

While shedding is a critical process to help keep your husky cool, it does not mean that they don’t need extra care in hot weather. Many owners need to shave their Huskies’ coats for safety reasons.

Huskies’ Coat Blowing

When the weather gets warmer outside, you’ll notice your husky’s coat start to shed. This process is called “coat blowing,” and it’s the Husky’s way of preparing for summer.

The undercoat will shed first, which can leave the dog looking patchy. The topcoat will shed next, and this is when the dog will start to look thinner. The shedding process can take a few weeks to a couple of months.

During this time, it’s essential to brush your husky regularly to help remove the loose hair. You should also give your huskies baths to help keep their skin and coat healthy.

Shaving the Coat

Shaving your husky’s coat is a huge mistake. While it may seem like an excellent way to help keep them cool, it worsens things.

Huskies should have their coats for protection from the sun and other elements. They also need their coat to regulate body temperature. When you shave your husky’s coat, they lose these protections.

Additionally, shaving the coat can cause serious health problems. The hair follicles are very sensitive and can easily become irritated. It can lead to infections, hot spots, and other skin problems.

Also, the new growth after shaving will be much weaker than the original coat. This new coat will not protect from the sun or elements, and it will be more susceptible to damage.

So, unless your husky’s vet tells you to shave their coat for medical reasons, don’t do it!

Huskies and heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is a danger for all dogs in the summer months, but it is especially dangerous for Huskies. It is because they have a higher risk of developing heat stroke. Heatstroke occurs when the body cannot regulate its temperature, and the body temperature rises to dangerous levels.

The main causes of heatstroke in Huskies are:

– Overheating from being outside for too long

– Exercising on hot days without enough time to rest and cool down

– Not having access to freshwater

In any of the above scenarios, it’s essential to remove your Husky from the heat and make sure they are cooled down as quickly as possible.

How to Teach Your Husky To Stay Outside During Summer?

Training a Husky may be a difficult task. You must ensure that it has had previous training before bringing a new aspect into its life. Huskies may be stubborn when learning new things, so be prepared for some resistance. Here’s how to train your husky to stay outside.

Fencing

Huskies are a fun and energetic breed, and if you don’t take adequate precautions, you may expect them to jump over the fence or into your property. Prevent the Husky from crossing your backyard fence by installing high fencing.

Only your height will keep you safe from a husky who escapes your compound. Huskies are known for their digging abilities. As a result, you must also ensure that the fence is deep enough, in addition to having a high fence. Investing in a sturdy fence will go a long way in ensuring your dog’s safety.

Shade

No matter what the weather is like outside, having a good shade is a must-have item. Prolonged sun exposure may increase the body temperature to dangerous levels, putting your Husky’s health at risk.

Creating a shaded place within your outdoor area will help keep your dog cool and comfortable, even on the hottest days. Consider putting up an umbrella or installing a canopy in the yard to create a shady spot for your Husky to relax. A well-ventilated and shady area will help to keep your husky cool in hot weather.

Access to Water and Food

Staying hydrated is extremely important for any dog, especially in hot weather. You can’t simply leave the dog outdoors without giving it enough food and water.

It may get hungry due to the activity and hopping about, and you must ensure that it obtains the nourishment it needs.

Since huskies become thirsty, water is an important aspect of this training. Heatstroke may occur in the summer if the Husky doesn’t even have enough water.

You must ensure that the water does not evaporate quickly by placing it in a shady area. Place the water bowl in the sun, and your Husky will not have anything to drink.

Place the food bowl away from the sun as well. If the food is placed in direct sunlight, it may get too hot, and your Husky may not want to eat it.

Training Tips

1. Get your Husky used to being outdoors gradually: If your Husky isn’t used to being outdoors, start by letting it out for short periods. Gradually increase the amount of time it spends outside until it is comfortable staying outside for long periods.

2. Put a collar and leash on your Husky when staying outdoors: It will help you keep control of your Husky and prevent it from running off.

3. Encourage your Husky to stay in the shade: If there is a tree or umbrella in the yard, encourage your Husky to stay under it by placing its food or water bowl nearby.

4. Never leave your Husky outside for long periods without supervision: Even if your Husky is trained to stay outdoors, it is important to never leave it unsupervised. If you must leave it alone, make sure someone else is there to check on it periodically.

5. Take your Husky for walks in the cooler hours of the day: Huskies are energetic and love to run, so take them for walks in the morning or evening when it is cooler outside. It will help keep their body temperature down and prevent heatstroke. With proper training and care, you can safely leave your Husky outdoors during the summer months.

How to Cool Down a Husky?

If your Husky got used to staying outside even during hot weather, you might want to know how to cool down a husky. Here are some tips:

Install a kiddie pool.

Fill it fully and place it in the shade, or add some ice to keep the water cool. Dogs like jumping in and out of the pool for a quick cool-down. It will allow your Husky to cool down by taking a dip when it gets too hot. There are many choices on Amazon, and you may want to get something that you can use indoors as well.

Use a pet cooling vest.

Use a cooling vest if you don’t have access to a kiddie pool or the weather is too hot for your Husky’s skin. It will keep your dog cool without exposing it to direct water contact. These vests usually work using evaporation and are easy to put on.

Hang a wet towel.

You can also make a cooling towel for your Husky by soaking a regular towel in cool water and then ringing it out. Hang the towel in the shade and let your dog lie down on it to cool off.

Use cooling mats.

You can place these cooling mats in the shade. They are often made from a special material that helps cool down your dog’s body temperature. Place the cooling mat below the air conditioner for the greatest benefits.

Use a fan.

A small, portable, battery-operated fan will help circulate the air and keep your Husky cool. You can place it near the dog bed or kennel so that your Husky can enjoy the cooling effect of the fan.

Give your Husky a frozen treat.

You can make your frozen treats from chicken broth, yogurt, and other healthy ingredients. These treats will help keep your dog hydrated while cooling it down simultaneously.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What climate is ideal for Huskies?

A: Huskies are a breed of dog originally bred in the Arctic, so they’re best suited for cold climates. They can tolerate cold weather better than most other breeds and love to run around in the snow. However, they can also adapt well to warmer climates if necessary.

Q: Is it okay if I let my Huskies exercise in hot places?

A: Yes, as long as you take precautions to keep them safe. Dogs can overheat quickly in hot weather, so never leave them chained or penned in a hot spot without plenty of water and shade. Make sure to walk your Huskies during the coolest parts of the day, and avoid strenuous exercises like running or fetching balls during the hottest hours.

Q: Do Huskies overheat easily?

A: Yes, Huskies overheat easily. They are one of the breeds most susceptible to heatstroke. They have a thick coat of fur that insulates them from the cold and traps the heat. Additionally, their body structure makes it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. If you live in a warm climate or plan on spending any time outdoors with your Husky during the summer months, it is important to take steps to prevent them from overheating.

Q: Do huskies shed in the summer?

A: Yes, huskies will shed their fur in the summertime. It is because they are adjusting to the warmer weather, and their coat helps them regulate their body temperature. In addition to shedding more in the summer, huskies will typically blow their coat twice a year – once in the spring and again in the fall. During these times, you may notice that your husky’s fur is coming out in clumps and that they are shedding significantly more than usual.

Final Thoughts

Huskies are bred for cold weather, but that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy the summer months. With proper care and training, you can safely leave your Husky outdoors during the summer. Be sure to provide plenty of water and shade, and take breaks from the heat by taking walks in cooler hours or letting your Husky lie down on a cooling mat. If you are concerned about your Husky overheating, speak to your veterinarian for more tips and advice.