Although huskies hail Siberia, these snow dogs can also live in warmer environments. From tropical nations to the driest deserts — any husky pup can thrive with proper care. So, how to take care of a husky puppy in hot weather? I’ve listed ten proven ways to keep your husky puppy cool under hot weather.
See which one works best for your husky pup.
Can a Husky Puppy Thrive in Hot Weather?
Although famous for thriving in colder places, husky puppies can live in hot areas. It’s not uncommon to see huskies integrated into many homes across different nations. And it wouldn’t be surprising to spot these snow dogs in the driest and hottest places worldwide!
Huskies are adaptable dogs that can thrive in any environment. And with some help from their owners, these snow dogs shouldn’t have an issue living in hot climates. Still, it’s your responsibility as an owner to keep your husky puppy safe and happy. So, even if it’s safe for these dogs to live in hot weather, it pays to be cautious.
Hyperthermia, commonly known as heatstroke, is common in huskies in hotter climates. It forces a husky pup to go into shock and suffer from irreparable organ damage, impacting the liver, kidney, and heart. And it can be fatal when left untreated.
So, be attentive and watch out for these common symptoms and signs of heatstroke in husky puppies:
- Excess panting
- Rapid heart rate
- Disoriented movements
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Vibrantly red gums
- Confusion
- High body temperature (>104°F)
- Seizures
- Collapse
- Coma
Ideally, husky puppies shouldn’t get exposed to temperatures over 86°F (30°C). Higher temperatures may lead to dehydration, heat stroke, or death. You can prevent those from happening by providing ample shade, air, and water. Still, it’s better to keep husky puppies under their ideal temperature of 70°F (20°C).
But remember that these differ for husky pups with underlying health issues. They require more robust protection against heat.
Addressing Heat Exhaustion in a Husky Puppy: How Can You Help?
Before diving into how to take care of a husky puppy in hot weather, know how to address heat exhaustion first! It happens when your husky’s body temp rises beyond the healthy range. And when this occurs, your pup will have difficulty regulating its body heat, which can be fatal.
Like any other dog, huskies are prone to heat exhaustion as they pant instead of sweating to regulate their body temperature.
Heat exhaustion has varying intensity levels, ranging from mild symptoms you can treat at home to severe heatstroke, where your husky’s organs might start shutting down.
Here’s a more in-depth look at the earliest signs of heat exhaustion to watch out for in husky puppies:
- Difficulty in breathing. If your husky puppy is panting excessively or hyperventilating, it might be overheated.
- Excess drooling. Husky puppies who suddenly drool or have thicker drool may be experiencing heatstroke.
- Dehydration symptoms. These include a dry nose, sluggish behavior, excess panting, and sunken eyes.
- Reduced urination. If your husky puppy is having trouble urinating, it might be overheated.
- Red, purple-ish, grayish, or bluish gums. Husky pups with differently-colored gums might be experiencing dehydration,
- Sudden onset of fever. A husky puppy with a body temperature exceeding 103°F (39°C) may suddenly develop a fever.
- Muscle tremors. If your young husky suddenly starts shaking or shivering despite the hot weather, it might be experiencing severe heat exhaustion.
- Rapid heartbeat. You can check your husky puppy’s pulse by putting your hand on its chest by its front elbow joints. Overheating can cause an increase in heart rate.
- Weakness. If your husky puppy begins showing sluggish behavior, it might be due to overheating. It forces your dog to nap more than usual.
- Excess diarrhea. Soft and bloody stools are huskies’ most prominent sign of heat exhaustion.
- Vomiting. If your pup starts vomiting, with or without blood, it indicates hyperthermia.
- Dizziness or confusion. Your husky may experience lightheadedness when suffering from heat exhaustion. Usually, young pups have difficulty walking in straight lines when overheating.
These are among the most noticeable signs of heat exhaustion in husky puppies. Still, if you see unusual behavior from your pup not listed here, take action, especially if it happens in hot weather. And when in doubt, you can always consult your husky’s vet to ensure your puppy’s safety, health, and well-being.
Treating Heat Exhaustion in a Husky Puppy
Here’s how to take care of a husky puppy experiencing heat exhaustion in hot weather:
- Bring your husky to a cool area ASAP. Grab your husky puppy and place it in a shaded area outdoors, or more preferably, indoors.
- Lower the body temperature. Wet your dog with lukewarm water, not ice water! Pouring ice on your husky might spike its body temperature too fast, causing more harm than good.
- Get it everywhere. Apply more water to your puppy’s body, especially around the ears and paws. Doing so helps reduce their fever.
- Place your husky in front of a fan. Let your pup dry off before a fan until their body temperature drops to 103°F (39°C) or less. Once it does, turn the fan off.
Always provide your pup with drinking water when treating your husky puppy. It speeds up the cooling process while keeping your dog hydrated.
Once you’ve done everything but your husky is still showing symptoms, or your dog suddenly gets worse or passes out, bring them to the vet ASAP. Not only will they be able to treat your puppy better, but they may also check your dog for complications from heat exhaustion.
Either way, your vet should be able to advise you on the best solutions for your husky puppy.
How to Take Care of a Husky Puppy in Hot Weather?
Knowing how to take care of a husky puppy in hot weather is crucial when you live in a hotter climate. It helps you address signs of heatstroke or overheating fast. And most importantly, it lets you keep your husky pup stay cool and comfortable. Here’s how to do it:
Keep the Coat
Coat care is one of the most crucial things to know when learning how to take care of a husky puppy in hot weather. No, it’s never a good idea to shave or cut this breed’s fur, no matter how hot it gets!
Husk puppies have a double coat with a particular undercoat layer of fur regulating their body temperature. Removing it exposes your dog more, increasing their risk for overheating or heatstroke. And both can prove to be fatal when ignored. So, no matter how intense the weather gets, keep the coat.
To help you stay on top of your husky’s condition, here are signs of overheating or heatstroke to remember:
- Vomiting
- Visible confusion
- Increased heart rate
- Lethargy
- Collapse
Aside from those mentioned, it would be best if you also considered excess panting. That action alone is usual behavior for these snow dogs as it helps regulate their body temp. But if your husky puppy is displaying confusion or unresponsiveness — take action!
If you see any of these signs on your husky puppy, bring them to the vet ASAP.
Have Your Husky Puppy Stay Indoors, Especially in Scorching Hot Weather
Anyone living in hot or warm climates knows that the hottest time of the day is usually midday! We are aware of staying inside from 12 pm to 3 pm as it’s often when the sun’s blaring. So, applying the same rule to your husky puppy only makes sense to save it from the hot weather.
Ensure your husky puppy has a cool area to lie in away from the blazing sun. You can bring your pup indoors with the AC on or have them lie down on a patch of tile flooring. Both help expel excess heat, keeping your young husky cool and comfy!
Meanwhile, I recommend investing in blinds or sun shields if you don’t have AC. These keep your home and your husky pup safe against the blazing heat and UV rays. But I suggest turning on some fans to make the place cooler for your dog.
Let Your Husky Puppy Exercise During Cooler Times of the Day
Living in a hotter climate doesn’t mean you should deprive your husky puppy of exercise! You only need to change the time. I recommend bringing your pup outdoors to play or exercise during the cooler times of the day. Usually, early morning or evening is ideal.
Bringing husky puppies outdoors during those times allows them to release their energy while staying cool. It prevents them from overheating in extreme heat. And don’t forget to bring some water for your pup during these mini outings to keep it hydrated and cool.
Always Have Water Available for Your Husky Puppy in Hot Weather
Husky owners should always ensure their puppies have easy access to clean water. And this is especially crucial during the summer months or in hotter climates. So, always have water ready for your husky puppy, whether at home or in public. Doing so keeps your pup hydrated and cool.
I recommend bringing clean water and a dog bowl whenever outdoors. With this, you don’t have to struggle to find some clean water for your husky puppy to drink. Meanwhile, it’s best to add potable water sources inside and out at home. It makes it easier for your husky puppy to find water whenever they get thirsty.
Also, when you’re going out for a while, have a friend or family member look after your husky puppy. Have them ensure your pup is drinking enough water during your absence. After all, huskies are notorious for being clumsy, and spilling water is a likely scenario.
Paw Care is Essential Too
A husky puppy’s paw pads are sensitive to heat as they’re still developing. So, when you let your pup walk on heated pavements or any other surface, their paws can get severely burnt. Remember, exterior surfaces are likely to retain heat more as they get exposed to the sun a lot. As a result, they may cause burns.
So, if you notice that the hard surfaces at home or outdoors are too hot for your hands or feet, it’s likely twice as bad for your husky’s feet. Therefore, have your puppy stay under the shade and or have them wear sturdy shoes.
Remember, paw care is essential in keeping a husky puppy cool in hot weather!
Additional Tips for Keeping a Husky Puppy Cool in the Heat
Here are other tips on how to take care of a husky puppy in hot weather:
Regularly Brush Your Husky Puppy’s Fur
As mentioned earlier, cutting or shaving your husky puppy’s fur is never a good idea. Instead, you can brush your dog’s coat! Brushing your husky’s coat helps spread their skin’s natural oils, keeping it clean. When you remove the excess debris and loose fur, your puppy can enjoy better air circulation in its skin.
Aside from keeping your husky pup cool, brushing also helps when they’re shedding. That’s one efficient step back from heat exhaustion or overheating! But most importantly, it helps your husky puppy feel happier and more comfortable.
I recommend brushing your husky’s coat whenever you bathe them or your pup goes for a swim. It’s safer and promotes better air circulation.
Limit Your Husky’s Time Outdoors
When the sun’s out and blazing, it’s common sense to limit your husky puppy’s time outdoors. I recommend allowing your pup to do its business or play outdoors for half an hour during the daytime. Once done, bring your dog inside your home to keep them cool and safe.
If the weather is hotter than usual, you can limit it to less than 30 minutes and let your husky pup continue indoors. Make sure it’s cool inside by turning your AC or fans on. Alternatively, your puppy can lounge around in your home if you have tiled flooring. They’re cool and help expel the heat from your dog’s body.
Even if huskies can handle the hot weather, it’s better not to let them overdo it. After all, if your pup can’t breathe well, it’ll increase its risk of overheating.
Frozen Treats is a Tasty and Efficient Way to Keep Cool in Hot Weather
An efficient and fun way to take care of a husky puppy in hot weather is via frozen treats! They can make your pup happy, full, and cool. There are many recipes you can make, such as the following:
- Blended cantaloupe mixed with plain yogurt.
- Pureed watermelon or pineapple.
- Frozen slices of bananas.
Whatever frozen treats you go for, ensure they’re safe for your husky puppy to consume. Either way, I recommend whipping up big batches so you can give your pup a treat whenever it gets too hot.
Invest in a Cooling Bed
If you don’t have an air conditioner at home, a cooling bed can be a lifesaver for your husky puppy on hot days! You fill these mini beds with water, giving your pup a cool place to lie on whenever they wish to cool off. And not only do they help expel your puppy’s body heat, but they also relieve aching joints.
Some cooling beds need to be refrigerated, while others only need water. Either way, you can place them inside your home or outside under some shade.
Alternatively, you can create a makeshift cooling pad made of wet towels. These are easy to make, provides the same effects, and are excellent replacements in a pinch!
Provide Your Husky Puppy with Plenty of Shade
If you can’t contain your husky puppy outdoors, keep them cool by providing ample shade. These can be in the form of trees, patio umbrellas, or tents! Having these areas ready for your pup lets them rest whenever they feel too hot. But aside from shade, ensure your husky has plenty of access to clean water outdoors.
Have a Mini Pool Party for Your Husky Puppy
If there’s no nearby beach or other body of water for your husky puppy to swim in on hot days, throw a pool party at home. A small kiddie pool or laundry basin should be enough for a growing husky pup. All you need to do is fill them up with water and have your puppy go for a swim.
Even if your husky puppy isn’t fond of swimming, the hot weather will let it think otherwise!
Give Your Husky Puppy Ample Space
Even growing husky puppies need plenty of space! And this is especially the case during hotter days since lying in one place every time can be uncomfortable for them. So, if you’re looking to leave your pup at home for hours due to work or other reasons, ensure your husky has ample space!
If not possible, have someone bring your husky puppy out to play or do their business to keep your dog cool and happy.
Ice Baths for Instant Cool Downs
One of the fastest ways to cool down a hot husky puppy is by giving them an ice bath. This method is only ideal for those living in dry and hot areas. It keeps your pup cool and happy even under the scorching sun. So, grab your kiddie pool or laundry basin, fill it with ice, and place it outside under ample shade. You can also do this indoors if you don’t mind cleaning up after.
But never do this if your husky shows visible heat exhaustion. After all, the sudden change in body temperature can cause more harm than good.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a husky puppy overheat in hot weather?
A: Husky puppies can overheat and experience heatstroke. Their double coats protect them from the heat, but they may also cause overheating. So, if you live where it’s hot 24/7 or are in the middle of summer, protect your pup from the heat! I recommend taking precautions to keep your husky puppy cool and comfortable.
Q: What temperature is too hot for a husky puppy?
A: Generally, huskies can withstand heat up to 75°F (24°C), but anything more than that can be harmful to the dog. But husky puppies can also thrive in hot environments, even if they’re famous for being snow dogs. Just make sure they don’t exceed the stated temperature!
Q: Do I need to get my husky puppy an AC for the hot weather?
A: If you live in a tropical area, where it’s hot 24/7, buying your husky pup an AC is a must! You must ensure your dog stays in a cold place in your home. If not, you’re putting your husky puppy at risk for heatstroke. Alternatively, you can get a quality cooling bed for huskies — these are cheaper and keep your pup cold and comfortable under hot weather.
Q: Should I shave my husky puppy in the summer due to the hot weather?
A: Shaving a husky puppy is never a good idea, no matter how hot it gets. Even the ASPCA is against shaving any dog breed, but this is particularly true for huskies. These show dogs have double coats insulating them from the heat. And when you shave that off, your husky pup will struggle to regulate its body temperature.
Q: How to take care of a husky puppy in hot weather at night?
A: Since nighttime is generally colder than daytime, bringing your husky puppy outside is a good idea. Even if you live in a place notorious for its scorching hot climate, leaving your pup outside at night is ideal. You don’t need to do anything special, and bringing your husky outside should be enough. I recommend letting your husky puppy go out for a few hours every night to keep them cool under hot weather.
Final Words
How to take care of a husky puppy in hot weather? From keeping their coat to making a delicious icy treat, these are some of the best ways to keep your pup cool in the heat. Explore the listed methods to see which helps your husky puppy beat the heat best!
