Siberian Husky Training Tips

Siberian huskies are known as stubborn and independent animals, so Siberian husky training is important when you bring home your new dog. They love people and are generally friendly to other dogs, but they also love to pull and run, so they need to be taught appropriate outlets for those things.

Appropriate Exercise

Huskies, especially in their adolescence, need lots of exercise. They need 40 to 60 minutes of full blown running each day, in addition to loose-leash walks. Fortunately, huskies are perfect for running next to a jogger, biker or skateboarder, so you have a lot of outlets for that energy. Dog backpacks are a great way to make these activities even more strenuous. Just remember to get your dog used to the pack before putting weights in it.

Huskies left alone with nothing to do will howl and bark, so make sure to get him plenty of exercise and leave him with mental stimulation. This doesn't mean toys, which most dogs won't play with when alone. Instead, put his kibble in a ball that spits it out when he plays with it or wet down the food, stuff it in a hollow toy and freeze it.

Pulling vs. Loose-Leash Walking

Huskies have an instinct to pull, so put that to use in training. Teach your dog to pull you while jogging, skiing, biking or skateboarding, using a special harness.

However, don't teach these skills until you have taught him not to pull on regular walks. Choke chains and prong collars won't work with these dogs, because they are sensitive and don't respond well to corrections. Instead, use the calm method of stopping every time your dog pulls.

This may sound frustrating, but if you're consistent, training moves quickly. If you usually walk your dog for an hour, set your watch. If you only get around the block in that hour, never fear. Tomorrow, your dog will try harder. He will soon learn that pulling gets him nowhere. Then, when the pulling harness comes out, he will be even more excited.

Reliable Recall

Huskies are independent and have a desire to run, so teach your dog a recall as soon as you bring him home. Start on a 6-foot leash. Don't overuse the word when your dog isn't on leash or he will learn to ignore it. Instead, teach it only when on leash at first.

Toss a treat in front of you so your dog's back is to you. Say his name and run backward. When he is running toward you, say "Come" and reward with treats and praise. Use the best treats and praise for this.

Gradually, build up distractions until you can call your dog off of any distraction on a 6-foot leash. Then, start using a 30-foot leash. Repeat training, building up until you can call your dog off any distraction. Then your dog is ready for off-leash.

Boundaries

It also helps to create boundaries at doors and gates for Siberian husky training, so your pet doesn't learn to bolt. To do this, put on a leash, but don't jerk with it. Eventually, you will want to do this without a leash. Instead, use your body to guard the door/gate. Tell your dog, "Wait." If he runs forward, walk toward him firmly to back him up.

Once he stops pushing forward and looks at you, say "Release" or "Okay" in a loud and happy voice. Never let your dog cross that boundary without the release word, so he learns that he's waiting for something. Then he won't go, even if you aren't there to block it.

Just a few simple self-control commands can really help your independent husky become the perfect family pet.

 

Comments