Siberian Husky Health Guide
A hardy Arctic breed with specific vulnerabilities—especially eye problems and autoimmune conditions.
12-14
Years Lifespan
35-60
Pounds
Moderate
Health Risk
#21
AKC Popularity
Eye Health is Critical
Huskies are prone to multiple hereditary eye conditions that can cause blindness. Annual eye exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist are strongly recommended. Reputable breeders should have CAER eye certifications.
The Husky Health Profile
Siberian Huskies are generally healthy dogs with good longevity, but they have breed-specific vulnerabilities:
- Eye problems: Multiple hereditary conditions affecting vision
- Autoimmune diseases: Hypothyroidism, uveodermatologic syndrome, lupus
- Zinc deficiency: Arctic breeds don't absorb zinc well
- Epilepsy: Higher than average seizure disorder rates
Major Health Conditions
1. Eye Problems
Breed predisposedHuskies are prone to multiple hereditary eye conditions. Their beautiful blue eyes aren't the cause—these are genetic conditions that require screening.
Common conditions:
- • Juvenile cataracts
- • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- • Corneal dystrophy
- • Glaucoma
- • Uveodermatologic syndrome
Prevention & care:
- • Annual eye exams (CAER)
- • DNA tests available for some conditions
- • Buy from eye-tested parents
- • Early detection helps management
2. Autoimmune Diseases
Breed predisposedHuskies are prone to autoimmune conditions where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues. Early recognition and treatment is important.
Conditions:
- • Uveodermatologic syndrome — eyes & skin
- • Hypothyroidism
- • Lupus (discoid and systemic)
- • Pemphigus
Signs to watch:
- • Eye redness/inflammation
- • Skin lesions, crusting
- • Nose depigmentation
- • Hair loss
3. Zinc-Responsive Dermatosis
Arctic breed issueHuskies and other Arctic breeds have trouble absorbing zinc from their diet. This causes skin problems that respond to zinc supplementation.
Signs:
- • Crusty, scaly skin
- • Hair loss around eyes/muzzle
- • Cracked paw pads
- • Dull coat
Treatment:
- • Zinc supplementation (often lifelong)
- • High-quality diet
- • May need injectable zinc initially
- • Usually responds well
4. Hip Dysplasia
~5% affectedWhile lower than many breeds, hip dysplasia still occurs in Huskies. Important for a breed bred for endurance running.
Signs:
- • Limping or stiffness
- • Difficulty rising
- • Bunny-hopping gait
- • Decreased activity
Prevention:
- • Buy from OFA-tested parents
- • Maintain healthy weight
- • Appropriate exercise
- • Joint supplements
5. Epilepsy
Elevated riskHuskies have higher than average rates of idiopathic epilepsy. Usually appears between 1-5 years of age and is manageable with medication.
Seizure signs:
- • Collapse, stiffening
- • Paddling legs
- • Loss of consciousness
- • Drooling, loss of bladder
Management:
- • Anti-seizure medications
- • Keep seizure diary
- • Regular blood monitoring
- • Most live normal lives
Husky Care Tips
Dietary Needs: The Arctic Heritage
Huskies Have Unique Nutritional Requirements
Siberian Huskies evolved to thrive on a high-protein, high-fat diet in harsh Arctic conditions. Their metabolism is more efficient than most breeds—they can do more with less food, but the quality matters.
- • Higher protein needs: 25-30% protein content recommended
- • Higher fat tolerance: Can handle 15-20% fat content well
- • Fish-based diets: Often well-tolerated due to ancestral diet
- • Avoid overfeeding: They're efficient—need less food than expected for their size
- • Zinc-rich foods: Help prevent zinc deficiency (red meat, fish, eggs)
Coat Care & Heat
Never Shave a Husky's Coat
Their double coat actually insulates against heat AND cold. Shaving doesn't help them stay cool, destroys the coat's protective properties, and it often doesn't grow back correctly. Instead: provide shade, water, AC, and avoid exercise in hot weather.
Emergency Signs:
- Seizure lasting more than 5 minutes
- Sudden vision loss or severe eye pain
- Signs of heatstroke (excessive panting, collapse)
- Severe skin lesions or bleeding
Understand Your Husky's Health Better
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Upload Your Dog's Records FreeFrequently Asked Questions
What is the lifespan of a Siberian Husky?
Huskies typically live 12-14 years—longer than many breeds their size. They're generally hardy but prone to specific conditions like eye problems and autoimmune diseases.
What eye problems do Huskies get?
Huskies are prone to cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), corneal dystrophy, and glaucoma. Annual eye exams are recommended. Their blue eyes don't cause problems—these are hereditary conditions.
What is zinc deficiency in Huskies?
Huskies don't absorb zinc well, causing crusty, scaly skin around the eyes, muzzle, and feet. It's managed with zinc supplementation, often lifelong.
Do Huskies have autoimmune problems?
Yes, including hypothyroidism, uveodermatologic syndrome, and lupus. Signs include skin lesions, eye inflammation, and nose depigmentation. Early treatment is important.
Are Huskies prone to hip dysplasia?
About 5% have hip dysplasia—lower than many breeds but it still occurs. Reputable breeders should have OFA certifications.
Do Huskies overheat easily?
They can overheat in hot climates. Never shave their coat—it protects from both heat and sun. Provide shade, water, AC, and avoid exercise in heat.