The Truth About Huskies in India and Why They Suffer
Tanisha Kumari | Dec 29, 2025, 16:11 IST
Siberian Husky
Image credit : Pexels
Siberian Huskies admired for their striking looks are increasingly popular in India. However, the country’s hot climate, urban lifestyle and limited exercise opportunities make life extremely difficult for this Arctic breed. From heatstroke risks and constant shedding to emotional distress and destructive behavior, Huskies suffer when kept in unsuitable environments. Responsible pet ownership means understanding their needs and considering native breeds better adapted to Indian conditions.
Huskies have become one of the sought after dog breeds in India because of their striking blue eyes, fluffy fur and wolf like appearance that dominate social media feeds. But behind the aesthetic lies a difficult truth that India is not a natural home for this Arctic breed. While many people fall in love with their looks, only few understand what it really takes to care for them in a harsh tropical climate.
Built for Cold, Not Summer
![Arctic Breed]()
Siberian Huskies were bred in freezing regions to pull sleds across icy landscapes. Their dense double coat traps heat allowing them to survive temperatures well below freezing. In India summers cross 35 to 45 degree Celsius which becomes a disadvantage.
Huskies are unable to tolerate prolonged exposure to heat and without constant cooling, they risk heatstroke which is fatal for them. Even in winter most Indian cities remain warmer than a Husky’s natural climate. The result of keeping them here is continuous discomfort and the need for artificial cooling which owners underestimate.
A Husky is not a couch dog. These dogs have high stamina as they are bred to run long distances. They need 2 to 3 hours of exercise a day along with mental stimulation like agility training, sniff walks or running.
In reality urban lifestyle with busy schedules, limited access to parks and apartment living makes this nearly impossible. Huskies end up spending long hours alone indoors. Without activity they become anxious and destructive. Chewing furniture, digging floors, howling for hours or attempting to escape is not misbehaviour but an unmet instinctual need.
![High Maintenance]()
Life in India brings additional challenges that first time owners do not expect like
Huskies are extremely social and easily feel lonely. They crave company, communications and physical play. When confined indoors without interaction, they experience stress and emotional suffering that owners mistake for stubbornness.
A husky’s famous ‘escape artist’ behaviour like jumping walls or digging under gates are just signs of boredom or a desperate attempt to seek attention. Their intelligence and sensitivity make them wonderful companions but those same traits turn into frustration when their needs are ignored.
Responsible Choices Before Bringing One Home
Loving a Husky means respecting the breed’s history and limitations. For people who already have one, there are ways to reduce suffering like early morning and late evening walks, cooling mats , water access at all times, brain games, indoor play and constant human interaction. But for those planning to get a pet, it is worth considering breeds suited to India’s climate like Indies, Mudhol Hounds, Rajapalayams or Caravan Hounds are healthier and happier in Indian conditions.
Celebrate the bond with your pets, explore Health & Nutrition, discover Breeds, master Training Tips, Behavior Decoder, and set out on exciting Travel Tails with Times Pets!
Built for Cold, Not Summer
Arctic Breed
Image credit : Freepik
Siberian Huskies were bred in freezing regions to pull sleds across icy landscapes. Their dense double coat traps heat allowing them to survive temperatures well below freezing. In India summers cross 35 to 45 degree Celsius which becomes a disadvantage.
Huskies are unable to tolerate prolonged exposure to heat and without constant cooling, they risk heatstroke which is fatal for them. Even in winter most Indian cities remain warmer than a Husky’s natural climate. The result of keeping them here is continuous discomfort and the need for artificial cooling which owners underestimate.
Exercise Needs Most Homes Can’t Meet
In reality urban lifestyle with busy schedules, limited access to parks and apartment living makes this nearly impossible. Huskies end up spending long hours alone indoors. Without activity they become anxious and destructive. Chewing furniture, digging floors, howling for hours or attempting to escape is not misbehaviour but an unmet instinctual need.
High Maintenance and Heat-Related Health Problems
High Maintenance
Image credit : Pexels
Life in India brings additional challenges that first time owners do not expect like
- Continuous shedding due to climate strain requiring brushing every day.
- More chances of skin infections aggravated by humidity and heat.
- Tick and flea issues because their dense fur becomes home for parasites.
- Expensive diets and grooming push monthly costs higher than most breeds.
Emotional Costs: Mental Strain and Loneliness
A husky’s famous ‘escape artist’ behaviour like jumping walls or digging under gates are just signs of boredom or a desperate attempt to seek attention. Their intelligence and sensitivity make them wonderful companions but those same traits turn into frustration when their needs are ignored.
Responsible Choices Before Bringing One Home
Loving a Husky means respecting the breed’s history and limitations. For people who already have one, there are ways to reduce suffering like early morning and late evening walks, cooling mats , water access at all times, brain games, indoor play and constant human interaction. But for those planning to get a pet, it is worth considering breeds suited to India’s climate like Indies, Mudhol Hounds, Rajapalayams or Caravan Hounds are healthier and happier in Indian conditions.
Celebrate the bond with your pets, explore Health & Nutrition, discover Breeds, master Training Tips, Behavior Decoder, and set out on exciting Travel Tails with Times Pets!