As many people know, Huskies are bred to thrive in the cold. Their thick coat allows them to bound through snow and ice without discomfort. But, how do they feel about warm weather? Do they like being in the heat for a change? Do huskies like to sunbathe after a long, cold winter?
Huskies like to sunbathe. Many husky owners report that they often find their dogs lying out in the sun, enjoying the warmth that it brings. Just like humans, huskies love the feeling of the sun and get many benefits out of it.
Although huskies enjoy being in the sun, you will want to watch them while they are out there to make sure that they are not getting overheated. If you want to find out more about why huskies like to sunbathe, the best climates for a husky, and how to keep your husky cool, you’re in the right place.
Disclaimer: The Can My Dog articles contain information based on the individual research and opinions of the author of the site – who just so happens to be a dog. How you utilize the information given is completely up to you. Proceed at your own risk.
Huskies Love to Sunbathe
Some huskies just love to sunbathe. You may still be concerned, though. If your husky goes out and into the backyard and starts sunbathing, won’t they get overheated? Well, in moderation, sunbathing should be perfectly fine! Just keep an eye on them and watch for signs that they may be too hot.
Signs of an overheated dog include:
- Heavy non-stop panting
- Glazed eyes
- Excessive drooling
Gallant has a full list of what to watch for.
Sunbathing is Good For Huskies
As long as you make sure your husky does not overheat, the sun can be really good for them! First of all, they are usually super happy lying outside, with a huge smile on their face. The sun also provides them with certain absorbable vitamins, which is a pro-hormone for them.
Simply put, Vitamin D is really good for dogs, because the vitamin helps to support bone formation and helps to regulate chemicals like calcium.
*But can a dog actually absorb Vitamin D from the sun?
So, if you see your Husky sunbathing, don’t discourage it. Let them enjoy the warmth of the sun. Just make sure they don’t get too hot!
There is a discussion thread talking about this topic on the forum Husky Owners A Breed Above The Rest. In the forum, a user expressed concern over her huskie’s sunbathing habits. But, many users responded, assuring her that it is very normal for them to enjoy spending time outside in the sun.
Best Climates For a Husky
Huskies were originally bred by the Chukchi people of Northeast Asia. The husky breed was introduced to North America by William Goosak, who was a Russian fur trader. So, as you can probably imagine, huskies are bred to thrive in the cold. They are totally fine in temperatures as cold as -60 degrees Fahrenheit!
But what many don’t know is that Huskies are an adaptable breed, and even though they do best in cold climates, they can also do well in warm climates. There are just a few precautions you may need to take, especially in the raging heat of the summer:
- Although they can still go out on moderately hot days, make sure they get lots of time inside with AC.
- On very hot days, it is best to stay inside. Walks should be done in the morning and evening when temperatures are lowest.
- If you must take your husky out on a scorching day, make sure that it is a short walk, and stick to grassy areas. The street and sidewalk could burn their paws. A good rule of thumb to help you gauge what’s safe is “if it is too hot for you to be outside, then it is definitely too hot for your dog”.
- Do not shave your husky in the summer, as their undercoat helps regulate their body temperature (source).
Huskies are great animals that people in every climate can own. Just be sure you provide them with what they need depending on the climate that you are in.
What Should I Do If My Husky Overheats?
| Temperature (in degrees Fahrenheit) | Level of Heat |
| 101-102.5 degrees | Normal |
| 103-105 | Slightly Overheating |
| 105-108 | Overheating |
| 108-109+ | Extremely Overheating / Possible Organ Damage |
Once your dog’s temp goes over 103 degrees, you should begin taking measures to reduce their temperature.
The VCA recommends a few steps to help a dog overcome heatstroke:
- Cool water, NOT cold water, can be poured on their “head, stomach, armpits, and feet.” A cool cloth can be used too.
- Rubbing alcohol, applied to the footpads, will dilate their pores and increase their perspiration.
- Ice put around the mouth and buttocks.
What happens if, despite your best efforts to prevent it, your husky begins to show signs of overheating? What should you do next to help them?
If your dog is in really bad shape, and showing the more serious signs of heatstroke, you will need to take them into an animal hospital/emergency room. There, they may help your husky with the use of:
- Intravenous fluids
- Mild sedation
- Oxygen therapy
Don’t let this scare you from allowing your husky time in the sun. Just like humans, huskies need to sunbathe. Just make sure that they are not out too long, and they should be just fine.
As long as you pay attention to your husky, their body language, and their physical signs, you are in the best possible position to be able to intervene before your dog overheats.
Cooling Your Husky Down After Time in the Sun
Earlier, we covered ways to make sure your husky does not get too hot; this included keeping them inside on very hot days and watching for signs of overheating.
But, there are extra measures you can take and supplies you can buy to further ensure that your husky stays cool while outside on hot days. They are listed below:
- Provide them with fresh water. Your dog gets thirsty when out in the heat, just like you do. So, make sure they have a full bowl of water outside that they can drink from whenever they become thirsty.
- Keep them cool with a baby pool. Fill the pool with shallow water and leave it for your husky to go into at their leisure. Huskies are not bred to swim, so they may be a bit nervous about stepping in at first. To remedy this, show them that it is safe to get in and that it will cool them off.
- A cooling dog bed is a good option too. They essentially pull heat from your dog’s body, ensuring that they do not go above their normal body temperature.
- A shady spot is also a must-have if your husky is sunbathing. Shade from a tree is ok, but it is unreliable. Instead, you could put an umbrella over the spot where they typically lay down to provide more consistent shade. There are also dog beds that have a canopy over them!
Conclusion
The next time you are going to the park, or just hanging out in your backyard, bring your husky with you and let them enjoy the comforting warmth of the sun! Just don’t forget to provide them ways to cool down. If it seems like they are getting too hot, then bring them inside.
It is better to be safe than sorry.
From now on, when your dog baby wants to go and get their tan on, instead of being worried about overheating, you can relish in the moment.
And as always, continue to Live, Love, Laugh, and Scratch our bellies often.
Love you guys,
JTB
P.S. If you’re new to this world, you may want to check out my Ultimate Guide for First Time Dog Parents. It’s a great reference to get you started on this journey.
This article has been reviewed by our Editorial Board and has been approved for publication in accordance with our Editorial Policies.
