Be Wise › Pet Wise guides › Dogs › Siberian Husky
Siberian Husky: temperament, health and care
Siberian Husky: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this dog suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Medium, about 16–27 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 12–14 years |
| Exercise | Very high: long daily exercise |
| Grooming | Dense double coat; heavy seasonal shedding |
Temperament and who it suits
Friendly, independent and strong-willed; high prey drive and escape artist.
Often suits: very active owners with secure fencing.
Recall is unreliable, and they struggle in hot weather.
Health problems to know about
- Eye problems (cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy)
- Hip dysplasia
- Skin conditions
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Siberian Husky
- See the puppy with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped and registered by eight weeks old
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have dogs of this breed looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to dogs for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Siberian Husky live?
A Siberian Husky typically lives 12–14 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Siberian Husky need?
Very high: long daily exercise.
What health problems are common in a Siberian Husky?
Common concerns include eye problems (cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy), hip dysplasia and skin conditions. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Siberian Husky need?
Dense double coat; heavy seasonal shedding.
Who does a Siberian Husky suit?
It often suits very active owners with secure fencing. Recall is unreliable, and they struggle in hot weather.
Similar dogs
Sources
- The Royal Kennel Club: breed information and health schemes
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council: Lucy's Law
Want answers for your situation?
The Be Pet Wise app lets you choose your country and pet, and ask PetBot follow-up questions.
Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.