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Adopting a 8 yr, Alaskan Husky


Magda

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Future companions eagerly awaiting to be united with the 8 yr old ,husky we adopted. We’re in the PNW, and our dog is coming from a rescue shelter in Texas later in the month. I have been reading up on husky behavior, needs, etc. And wondering if there is any advice out there for husky adopters?

From what I know from the rescue shelter, he has sweet demeanor, loves kisses, and is a couch potato. They’ve said he is friendly, and chill with other dogs large and small. Although I’m unsure of just how much time he gets playing and socializing with others dogs at the rescue shelter. They’ve also said he does well with the male and female workers. And on his adoption page it said he was good with kids.  We have a 13 yr, Lakeland Terrier and have already got our house ready for introducing them to each other. We live right next to a dog park and lake, lots of trails around us for walks. We just want to give our new family addition the best life possible whilst also being mindful of his breed.

 

Thank you!

With Goodness,

Magda

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Hi and welcome to the forum.   Well done in making a decision to rescue a husky  (I have two rescues - both totally different to each other). I have had one for 8 years and the other for 4 years now.  The two I have were my first huskies, but I had wanted one all my life.      Huskies generally are very opinionated -  I regularly have arguments with mine,  I want them to do something - they usually just ask what is in it for them.   If they cannot see an advantage in doing it  - they usually wont.    I LOVE that about the breed.   (You will no doubt have heard the saying that if you wanted an obedient dog  - you should have gotten a Labrador).

They are excellent escape artists - so reinforce your 6ft minimum fencing.     Never let the dog off lead unless in a very secure dog park  - to say they are not known for their recall is an understatement.    Huskies as a rule do not like being left alone   -   they get bored very easily   ........  and a bored husky is something to be feared  -  I know to my cost  (the cost was my sofa and chairs).

Beware of your husky around small furries  (cats/squirrels etc)  -  they move MUCH quicker than you think they can, the chances are that the small furry creature will not survive the interaction.

Just have a couple of buckets of patience in each room (for emergencies),  and a massive sense of humour when your new dog makes you feel like an idiot because you have just been totally outwitted by them.     One of the best quotes I have seen in describing huskies (and the most accurate) is that they have 18 muscles in each ear - and use each and every one of them to ignore you.

I love the uniqueness of them and would never consider any other dog now.

Good Luck !!!

 

 

 

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It’s wonderful that you’re preparing so thoughtfully for your new Husky! But be mindful of Husky specific traits like their high energy levels and love for running. Even if he seems like a couch potato now, he’ll likely appreciate daily exercise. When introducing him to your Lakeland Terrier, go slow and supervise their interactions. Huskies can have a strong prey drive, so it's important to ensure both dogs are comfortable.

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