Do Huskies Get Along With Small Dogs: Everything Considered

Over the years i’ve been asked thousands of questions about husky health and behavior, but something that keeps on coming up is how huskies behave with small dogs.

If you’re a husky owner or considering getting a husky and you also have a small dog, you may be wondering if huskies can get along with small dogs peacefully.

Everything you need to know is covered below. Let’s get started!

What are Huskies like? (quick basics)

Huskies are active and playful dogs that are known for their independent nature. They are intelligent and social, and they thrive on human interaction. However, they can also be stubborn and willful, which can make them difficult to train. As pack animals, huskies have a strong prey drive, which means they may be more likely to chase after small animals. This includes small dogs.

Do Huskies get along with Small Dogs? (everything considered)

The answer to this question is not a straightforward yes or no. Some huskies may get along well with small dogs, while others may not.

The key to understanding whether your husky will get along with your small dog is to understand their personality and temperament.

Personality and Temperament

Huskies have a strong prey drive, which means they may be more likely to chase after small animals, including small dogs. However, this does not mean that all huskies will exhibit this behavior. Some huskies may be more tolerant of small dogs, while others may view them as prey.

Socialization

Socialization is a critical part of a husky’s training. When a husky is socialized properly, they are more likely to get along with small dogs. Socialization involves exposing your husky to a variety of people, animals, and environments. This helps your husky learn how to interact with different types of dogs and people.

Training

Training is another essential aspect of a husky’s behavior towards small dogs. A well-trained husky is less likely to exhibit aggressive or dominant behavior towards small dogs. When training your husky, it’s important to be firm but gentle. Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior, such as treats or praise.

Supervision

Supervision is crucial when introducing your husky to a small dog. Never leave your husky and small dog alone without supervision, even if you think they are getting along well. Huskies have a strong prey drive, and they may view a small dog as prey, even if they have been getting along well.

Introducing your Husky to a Small Dog

When introducing your husky to a small dog, it’s important to do it slowly and carefully. Here are some tips to help you introduce your husky to a small dog:

1. Choose a Neutral Location: Choose a neutral location for the introduction, such as a park or backyard. This will help your husky and small dog feel more comfortable.
2. Keep the Dogs on a Leash: Keep both dogs on a leash during the introduction. This will allow you to control the dogs and prevent any aggression.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. Give treats or praise when both dogs are calm and interacting well.
4. Separate the Dogs if Necessary: If one dog becomes aggressive or dominant, separate them immediately. This will prevent any injuries to either dog.

What this all means…

In conclusion, huskies can get along with small dogs, but it depends on their personality, temperament, socialization, and training.

Personally, I know more huskies that get along just fine with smaller dogs, than huskies that don’t.

If you have a husky and a small dog, it’s important to introduce them slowly and carefully, and to always supervise them when they are together.

By understanding your husky’s behavior and taking the necessary steps, you can ensure a peaceful and happy coexistence between your husky and small dog.

Remember that every dog is different, and it’s essential to understand your husky’s behavior to ensure a safe and happy environment for both dogs.

If you’re considering getting a husky and you already have a small dog, it’s important to understand the potential risks and responsibilities that come with owning two dogs. However, if you take the time to train and socialize your husky and small dog, you can create a harmonious and loving household.

Some additional tips for husky owners:

• Exercise your husky regularly. Huskies are high-energy dogs and need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. A well-exercised husky is less likely to exhibit aggressive or destructive behavior.
• Provide plenty of mental stimulation. Huskies are intelligent dogs that thrive on mental stimulation. Provide plenty of toys and games to keep your husky entertained and mentally stimulated.
• Be patient and consistent. Huskies can be stubborn and willful, so it’s essential to be patient and consistent with your training. Use positive reinforcement and be firm but gentle with your husky.
• Consider professional training. If you’re struggling with training your husky or need additional help, consider hiring a professional dog trainer. A trainer can help you develop a training plan that’s tailored to your husky’s specific needs and behavior.

By following these tips and understanding your husky’s behavior, you can create a loving and happy home for your husky and small dog.

With patience, consistency, and proper training, your husky can become a loyal and loving companion to both you and your small dog.