It’s common knowledge that Siberian Huskies are built for snow and freezing conditions. But what if you live in Texas where the temperature can get very hot? Can you still get a husky?
Actually, you still can – and it’s great that you’ve thought about it, as any ethical pet owner should! However, you’ll need to put in a lot of effort to help them adapt.
First, we’ll look at the pros and cons of a husky living in Texas. Then, we’ll provide tips so they don’t just survive, but thrive and enjoy their living in Texas with you.
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How Bad Would Living in Texas Be For A Husky?
It’s not too bad in Texas for a husky, so long as you’re not living smackdab in the desert areas. The only cause for concern would be the annual increase in the Texan average temperature.
According to a study conducted in 2020 by American meteorologist John W. Nielsen-Gammon and associates, Texas is on a constant track toward being hotter and drier than it’s ever been in a thousand years.
Despite this, a responsible owner can give the best living conditions for their puppy despite the rising heat. Proper knowledge and consideration for a husky’s needs will ensure they live a long and happy life. More on this below.
How Hot Can A Husky Tolerate?
Like any organism, dogs can tolerate a certain level of temperature peak or drop. Huskies can tolerate cold as low as -75℉, thanks to their double-layered winter coats and natural body fat keeping them warm.
Sadly, the same heat-conserving qualities turn detrimental while trying to withstand up to 90℉.
To compare, the average temperature during the middle of summer in Texas in 2022 was 91.8℉. Unfortunately, huskies can only tolerate temperatures up to ~85℉ for brief periods of time.
So it’s clearly too hot for huskies in Texas during the middle of summer. But the temperature for most of the year ranges from ~45℉ to ~80℉. So they should be ok outside the summer months.
To combat the Texan summer heat, you’ll need to ensure a few things. More on this below.
7 Potential Dangers for Huskies in Texas
A good Lone Star State husky owner would want their puppy ready for the temperature and the natural dangers within the area.
As such, here is a quick list of the most common threats to dogs in Texas, based on Envirocon Pest Control’s Texas pest watchlist.
1. Coyotes
Texas has become a hunting ground for this wild dog species. Although a rare sight during the day, a coyote pack actively hunts at night.
Sure, an adult husky might make coyotes think twice before approaching, but steer clear from clearings that might be in their territory to avoid the risk altogether.
Further reading: Husky vs Coyotes
2. Venomous Snakes
Rattlesnakes, water moccasins, copperheads, and coral snakes are all native to Texas. While they wouldn’t initiate a fight against the average adult husky, it’s still best to let your dog walk away from rock ledges, hollow logs, and riverside holes.
If your dog is bitten, seek a veterinarian as soon as possible.
3. Alligators
If you reside in East Texas or anywhere near the coast that may be home to gators, please ensure your dog doesn’t venture anywhere along the shoreline at night time – especially if there are alligator warning signs posted.
4. Rodents
They come in different species, but have one thing in common: being a sanitary threat for your pup as disease carriers.
It’s best to keep both human and dog food supplies sealed airtight and eat only in the designated areas. You can also train your husky to avoid leaving food crumbs!
Sealing cracks and holes that may allow pathways for these small uninvited creatures would also be a good idea.
5. Parasites
There are fleas, there are ticks, and then there’s the worst among the three: kissing bugs. While the former two are already known hindrances to pet health, the latter is potentially a serious cardiovascular threat to both pet and owner.
For ticks and fleas, the usual careful removal (done best by a veterinarian) along with the use of oral treatments and repellents would work wonders.
However, kissing bugs require more attention. You’ll need regular consultations with your doctor, and your husky will need vet check-ups. You’ll would also need pest control from expert entomologists and exterminators to prevent further outbreaks.
6. Creepy Crawlies!
Scorpions, tarantulas, fire ants, mosquitos, and killer bees should all serve as nightmare fuel for both you and your husky. As such, both owners and pets should stay away from smaller mounds in the ground, webbed/dried/hollow trees, overly-thick bushes, and dusty underlit areas.
7. Flash Floods
If it’s not the heat, then it’s the surprising rise of water levels!
Flash floods are common occurrences in Austin and other riverside parts, so if the weather’s too risky for a walk with your husky, try to just spend your bonding time within the yard.
Benefits of Raising a Husky in Texas
It’s not all strong sunlight and dangers in Texas, as there’s a lot for your husky to enjoy.
Some of the most notable ones include:
- Cheaper cost-of-living and lower taxes in comparison to other states, which means more money you can spend on your puppy (higher chance of having a wider yard for playing!)
- Barbecue happens to be the local specialty, perfect for any meat-loving dog
- Large national and state parks for you and your husky to explore
- Numerous rivers for your husky to take a dip in and cool off
14 Tips for Raising a Husky in Texas
Here are 14 tips for raising a husky in warmer climates like Texas:
- Hydration: Ensure your husky always has access to fresh water to prevent dehydration.
- Access to shaded areas: Provide plenty of shaded spots outdoors for your husky to escape the sun.
- Air conditioning: Keep indoor spaces cool with air conditioning to help your husky cope with the heat.
- Fans: Use fans to improve air circulation and create cooler spots indoors.
- Exercise during cooler hours: Schedule walks and outdoor playtime for early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are lower.
- Take breaks while traveling in cars: Allow your husky to cool off during car trips by taking regular breaks, and ensure the car has air conditioning.
- Grooming and coat maintenance: Grooming your husky by regularly brushing its coat to remove loose hair and improve air circulation to the skin.
- Cooling mats and vests: Invest in cooling mats or vests designed for dogs to help regulate their body temperature.
- Monitor for signs of heatstroke: Watch for symptoms of overheating, and contact your vet if you suspect heatstroke.
- Kiddie pools or water play: Provide a shallow kiddie pool or engage in water-based activities to help your husky cool off.
- Adjust their diet: Consult with your veterinarian to ensure your husky’s diet is appropriate for the warmer climate.
- Regular vet check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups to monitor your husky’s health and adapt their care plan as needed.
- Educate yourself: Learn about the specific needs of raising a husky in a warm climate, and connect with local husky owners or breed-specific groups for support and advice.
- Indoor enrichment: Provide indoor activities and mental stimulation for huskies during hot days when outdoor exercise is limited.
By following these tips, husky owners in Texas can help ensure their dogs remain safe and comfortable in the hot climate.
Should You Get a Husky in Texas?
With enough knowledge and effort, a husky will remain happily content and healthy – even through the blazing days and nights in Texas, or any warm state or country.
If you still can’t decide whether you should get a Siberian husky or not, take our husky quiz.
