Grooming Your Siberian

Maintaining the optimal health and happiness of your Siberian Husky is of utmost importance, and grooming plays a crucial role in achieving this. Contrary to popular belief, grooming is not a tedious task akin to cleaning household appliances. Rather, it presents an opportunity to bond with your furry companion. Moreover, with the advent of innovative grooming technology, the process has become more convenient than ever before. This chapter provides comprehensive guidance on grooming, covering everything from brushing and bathing to trimming nails and brushing teeth. Additionally, valuable tips on finding a reputable professional groomer are also included, which can complement your personal grooming efforts.

Brushing and Combing Your Husky

The Siberian Husky is a breed with a unique double coat of hair. The undercoat is woolly or downy and is protected by a harsh outercoat or guard coat, which grows through the undercoat. The outercoat is rainproof and provides protection from brambles and thorns, while the undercoat serves as insulation. Shedding is primarily caused by the undercoat. The Husky's double coat is an excellent protective device, as it prevents dirt from penetrating it. Additionally, the breed's grooming habits are meticulous, making it a self-cleaning machine. However, the challenge with grooming lies in managing the hair, rather than dirt.

Remember

A crucial component of successful grooming is to train your Siberian to calmly tolerate being brushed. In the wild, dogs frequently engage in grooming rituals with one another to strengthen social bonds and reinforce their hierarchy. This natural behavior can be replicated with your Husky, who will come to enjoy the affectionate attention received during grooming sessions. Additionally, these sessions provide an opportunity to inspect your dog for any signs of parasites, injuries, or unusual growths.

In the following sections, I will provide essential reminders for brushing and combing, as well as the most effective technique for brushing your Husky.

Basic grooming 101: Important points to remember

Introducing a Husky into your household is a significant decision, and an essential component of caring for your new companion is maintaining their grooming routine. To assist you with brushing and combing, please consider the following guidelines:

» Groom regularly, at least twice a week. Regular grooming promotes healthy skin and coat by eliminating loose hair and facilitating proper air circulation. It effectively eliminates dead, scaly skin while stimulating the sebaceous glands to produce essential oils for a healthy coat.

Remember

It is important to maintain a well-groomed coat for your Siberian, especially during the colder months. Mats can compromise the insulating properties of their coat, which can affect their comfort and warmth when outside. Therefore, it is recommended to continue grooming your pet regularly to prevent matting and ensure they stay cozy during the colder weather.

» Use a grooming table. If a suitable grooming table is not available, a kitchen table can suffice. To ensure stability, it is recommended to place a nonslip mat on the surface. Alternatively, a different table in a separate location, such as a basement or porch, may be used if preferred. In favorable weather conditions, grooming the Siberian outdoors is also an option. This may result in curious neighbors wondering about the unique tufts of hair left behind.

» Groom all your dog. Get all parts, including the belly and underneath the tail.

» Inspect for fleas. To effectively address the presence of fleas, it is recommended to utilize a fine-toothed metal flea comb. It is important to remain vigilant and promptly address any sightings of fleas. It is suggested to have a glass of hot water readily available to dip the comb in, as this will result in the fleas being drowned. For further information on managing fleas and ticks, please refer to Chapter Focusing on Your Husky’s Health and Wellbeing.

Combing and brushing: Easy-peasy

Mastering the art of grooming your Husky requires some practice, but with the following steps, you can become proficient and strengthen the bond with your furry companion.

1. Use a spray bottle and mist your Husky lightly all over his body.

   The utilization of misting facilitates the grooming process and effectively prevents the breakage of guard hairs.

2. Use a wide-toothed comb, preferably one with rounded teeth and break up mats.

   A wide-toothed comb is recommended for easier detangling, although a specialized de-matting tool can also be purchased for this purpose.

3. Brush the coat vigorously using a wide-toothed comb to break up the mats.

   If your Husky has a shorter coat, it may be possible to use a basic bristle brush, similar to a human hairbrush, but it is unlikely. To properly groom your Husky, it is important to start with the undercoat where mats tend to form. It is recommended to follow the natural hair stream and work on small sections of the coat at a time. For most of the coat, brush vigorously forward and then back, especially along the flanks. This back brushing is necessary to effectively remove mats and tangles from the thick undercoat.

   Tip

   When faced with tangles, it is recommended to start at the outermost part of the tangle and work your way towards the hair closest to the skin. Avoid starting at the root end and pulling, as this approach is not conducive to a positive grooming experience for either you or your pet. Additionally, starting at the root end may result in significant hair loss for your Siberian.

4. Focus on other areas when de-matting.

   It is important to pay close attention to the armpits and rump of the dog, as mats often tend to hide in these areas. When brushing, it is recommended to follow the direction of the coat at the rear end for optimal results.

5. Comb again.

   You may find it remarkable to discover the amount of hair that can be gathered through raking. Following the combing process, it is recommended to utilize a long-bristled brush to complete the task. It is imperative that the bristles are of sufficient length to effectively penetrate the dense coat of the Siberian. Neglecting to address mats can result in their enlargement and tightening near the skin, leading to various issues. Therefore, it is essential not to overlook this critical step.

6. Clean up.

   Proper cleaning is a crucial aspect of the grooming procedure. It is recommended to promptly vacuum up any loose Husky hair if grooming indoors to avoid the spread of hair throughout the household. It is advisable to utilize a disinfectant, preferably with bleach, to sanitize the grooming tools.

Warning

It is not recommended to shave, strip, or clip your Husky's fur too closely. This can have negative effects on their insulation against cold weather and protection from UV rays. Additionally, it is important to avoid clipping your dog's whiskers, as they serve as sensory devices and contribute to their unique appearance and character.

Technical stuff

From a technical standpoint, vibrissae refer to the commonly known whiskers of animals. These specialized hairs have the ability to vibrate upon contact with solid objects, serving as a warning mechanism.

It is recommended to trim any excess hair between the toes of your Siberian if it becomes unsightly, as this is a common issue with their thick fur. Some individuals have found success in removing loose hair with a pin brush, but it is important to exercise caution. Prior to use, it is advisable to test the brush on your own arm to ensure that it is not too scratchy for your cat's sensitive skin.

Remember

If your canine companion is severely tangled, it may be advisable to seek the assistance of a professional groomer. Once your pet has been adequately de-matted and cleaned, you can resume grooming him yourself. Prior to taking your Siberian to the groomer, ensure that he has received adequate exercise and has been let out to relieve himself. It is also important to avoid feeding him immediately before the appointment. Additionally, refrain from bathing your dog just before the appointment, as this may exacerbate any matting issues.

TACKLE YOUR HUSKY’S DOUBLE COAT

The FURminator is an essential tool for maintaining the double coat of a Husky. This comprehensive collection of grooming tools includes brushes, bath products, shedding aids, hair collectors, and more. By selecting the Husky breed on the company website, you can access their recommended products. For optimal results, we suggest using the Adjustable Dematter Tool, Undercoat deShedding Tool, Hair Collection Tool, and deShedding Ultra Premium Shampoo. Although the term "deshedding" may be unclear, these products are highly effective. When selecting a FURminator brush, be sure to choose the long hair version to avoid damaging the guard hair.

Remember

A lackluster coat can potentially be an indication of underlying health issues. Despite your efforts to maintain proper grooming habits, your dog's coat may signal a nutritional deficiency, heartworm, roundworm, hookworms, underactive thyroid, kidney problems, or even cancer. It is highly recommended to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Bathing Your Husky

Siberian dogs are known for their exceptional cleanliness. Due to their non-oily coat, they typically only require bathing three to four times a year, unless they have become particularly dirty. However, giving your dog a bath is always beneficial. I recommend using a mild, unmedicated shampoo. While inexpensive human shampoos work well, there are also high-quality texturizing shampoos specifically designed for double-coated dogs available in the pet market. These shampoos maintain the cleanliness of the coat while preserving its texture.

There is a common misconception that using human shampoo on dogs is harmful due to differences in pH values between human and canine skin. However, this is not supported by scientific evidence. Canine skin has a wide range of pH values, and there is no evidence that using a human shampoo based on average human pH values is harmful to dogs.

Shampooing not only improves the appearance of the coat but also promotes healthy skin and helps prevent parasite infestations and hot spots without resorting to chemical treatments. Aloe shampoo is particularly soothing, and conditioner can be added to prevent dryness. Additionally, there are specialized no-tear and hypoallergenic shampoos available for dogs. To prevent soap from getting into your dog's eyes, a drop of mineral oil and some petroleum jelly around the eyes can be used.

Tip

When bathing your canine companion, it is essential to prioritize thorough rinsing. It is recommended to allocate twice as much time for rinsing as for washing. Failing to remove soap residue can lead to the development of hotspots on the dog's skin.

When in need, a dry shampoo formulated for dogs can be used to remove excess oils from their coat. Although it may not be as effective as regular shampoo, it can be a useful alternative. It is important to note that most dogs dislike getting a bath, but with proper training, they can learn to tolerate it. While bathing your Husky outdoors may be an option during the summer, using a bathtub year-round is recommended. There are long, flexible attachments available to make showering your pet easier, and a raised dog bathing tub can also be beneficial. It is crucial to ensure the water is at a comfortable temperature before beginning the bath. When applying shampoo, starting at the neck area can create a natural flea barrier to prevent them from climbing up to the dog's head.

Tip

If your canine companion is uncooperative during bath time and you are unable to seek assistance from another individual, there are a variety of devices available for purchase that can be secured around the dog's body to prevent them from sitting down.

Remember

To ensure the safety and comfort of your canine companion during bath time, it is recommended to provide a rubber bathmat. This will help prevent slipping in the tub and alleviate any potential anxiety caused by the slick surface.

After bathing your Siberian, it is important to dry them thoroughly to prevent any discomfort or illness, especially in colder weather. To avoid getting drenched by your dog's shake, it is recommended to firmly hold their head and stop the shake at the front. Once you have prevented the shake, you can proceed to dry your dog using a handheld dryer set on low or a specially designed dog dryer. This process may take up to an hour, so it is important to allocate sufficient time. Alternatively, if the weather is favorable, you may consider allowing your dog to dry outdoors.

Dealing with Shedding

“Wait a minute! I thought Huskies didn’t shed!” I can hear you saying it. I know, that’s what they told me, too. And they don’t. At least not in Siberia, which is cold and dry. They merely blow their coats twice a year. But if you don’t live in Siberia, you may be in for a little shock. In most of the United States, with its rapid climate changes, the Husky may shed his coat all year long — by the bushel. Just think, all that stuff that looks like a mixture of dandelion seeds and tumbleweed used to be on your Siberian.

Technical stuff

Shedding is a common occurrence in dogs. The process of hair growth follows a three-phase cycle, beginning with the active growth phase known as anagen. Once the hair has reached its predetermined length, it enters the catagen phase, during which growth stops. In the final telegen phase, new hair grows in while the old hair falls out. As dogs only perspire through their paw pads, it is crucial to manage shedding in the spring to prevent heat stress.

If you reside in a northern region and your Husky spends a significant amount of time outdoors, it is likely that he will adhere to his ancestral pattern and shed his coat only twice a year - during spring and fall. This process, known as "blowing the coat," may take anywhere from three to six weeks to complete and can result in the hair coming out in clumps, particularly during periods of dry heat. Apart from the normal seasonal shed, Siberians may lose hair due to a variety of factors, such as stress, illness, or whelping, and dogs who undergo a lifestyle change may also experience shedding. Some individuals believe that central heating and artificial lighting may also contribute to shedding. It is critical to keep a close eye on your Husky to determine whether the shedding is normal or indicative of a more serious issue. Even in regions where the male sheds only once, the female will shed twice due to estrus (the female's time of heat), usually during the spring and fall. Additionally, Huskies undergo a significant shedding event known as the "big shed" when they mature from cute little puppies to adult dogs. Over the course of a few weeks, all of the fine puppy hair is shed, and the coarser hair of the adult dog takes its place. This event typically occurs between 10 and 14 months of age and requires preparation.

SHOULD YOU SHAVE YOUR SIBERIAN?

Many pet owners residing in regions with prolonged hot weather may question whether shaving their Siberian Husky is a wise decision. As these dogs are originally from arctic climates, they may not be well-suited to the heat of places like Fort Lauderdale. Experts generally advise against shaving a Siberian Husky, as it can increase the risk of heat stroke, sunburn, and skin cancer. This is particularly true if you intend to shave your dog completely down to the skin, which is not recommended.

However, if you groom your dog carefully and remove the thick undercoat, your pet should be able to handle the heat. The thin outercoat acts as a barrier against the sun and insects while allowing air to circulate and cool the dog. Regular brushing and access to cool water, both for drinking and playing, can help keep your Siberian Husky comfortable during hot weather.

As shedding is a natural process, it cannot be completely prevented. It is recommended to ensure that your pet is receiving adequate amounts of B vitamins and unsaturated fatty acids to help reduce shedding caused by stress or whelping.

Mrs. Allen's Shed-Stop is a liquid dietary supplement that contains sunflower oil, vitamins, antioxidants, and other beneficial ingredients. This product has the potential to aid in reducing shedding.

Paying Attention to Your Husky’s Entire Body

Regular grooming is a crucial aspect of maintaining your Husky's health. Through grooming, you have the opportunity to thoroughly examine every aspect of your dog's body. By paying attention to the following body areas, you can ensure that everything is in order. Additionally, regular grooming increases the likelihood of detecting any potential issues early on.

Feet

It is recommended to frequently check the pads of your dog's feet for any mats between the toes, sores or gravel. It has been observed that Siberians tend to retain the hair between their toes, which can collect various debris. It is important to be cautious of lawn and snow-melting chemicals that can cause burns on your Husky's feet. Additionally, fungal infections similar to athlete's foot can affect a dog's pads, and weed seeds can penetrate the tender skin between the pads. Any excessive licking of paws should be taken as a sign of trouble. It is worth noting that Siberians can be sensitive about having their feet touched, so patience is advised.

Nails

It is recommended to maintain your Husky's nail length by trimming them at least once every two weeks. Delaying the trimming process can cause the nails and the quick to overgrow, as illustrated in Figure 12-1. In such cases, it is advised to trim the nails gradually over several days, allowing the quick to recede gradually as well. Overgrown nails can lead to severe foot problems, but it is equally important not to trim them too short that they become barely visible. Dogs require their nails to gain traction while running, and nails of the appropriate length should not touch the ground while the dog is standing.

FIGURE 12-1: When you trim your Husky’s nails, avoid the quick.

It is important to keep your Husky's nails trimmed to avoid discomfort and potential damage. If your dog does not naturally keep their nails short from exercise, it is up to you to take care of it. If you hear clicking on the floor, it is time for a trim. If you are unsure about the process, seek guidance from a professional groomer or veterinarian. A recommended tool for nail trimming is a variable-speed Dremel tool, which allows for a quicker and cleaner job with minimal risk of injury. Additionally, the Dremel tool can automatically cauterize any accidental cuts. Overall, keeping your Husky's nails trimmed is an essential part of their grooming routine.

Remember

It is recommended to trim the dewclaws, which are an extra toenail located higher up on the inside of the front leg, if they are present in your Siberian. Dewclaws are so named due to their alleged ability to brush dew away from the grass, but they are generally considered useless. It is common for breeders to remove them.

For those who opt for hand clippers, it is recommended to choose guillotine clippers that have replaceable blades. When clipping, approach the nail from the back and bottom at a slight angle, taking care to avoid cutting the quick. It is important to quickly and firmly squeeze the clipper to prevent splitting the nail. In the event of accidentally cutting into the quick, styptic powder, flour, or cornstarch can be used to stop the bleeding.

Teeth

Proper dental care is essential for the health and well-being of your canine companion. Given that dogs have 42 teeth, maintaining their oral hygiene can be a daunting task. It is imperative to regularly clean your Husky's teeth and gums to prevent tartar buildup. While feeding your dog hard kibble and teeth-cleaning bones can be beneficial, these products alone cannot eliminate plaque from your Husky's teeth. Failure to address plaque buildup can lead to periodontal disease, which can result in tooth loss and the release of harmful bacteria into the bloodstream. Some of these bacteria can even cause cardiac problems. Therefore, it is crucial to brush your dog's teeth regularly to ensure optimal dental health.

Tip

It is recommended to use toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs on a regular basis, ideally daily, or at least once a week. These toothpastes are available in various flavors, such as beef and chicken.

Although young puppies typically do not experience dental issues, it is advantageous to introduce them to the toothbrushing process during their early developmental stages. Consider utilizing the following toothbrush options:

» A baby’s toothbrush (with nylon bristles)

» A specially designed canine toothbrush that fits over your finger

» A regular looking toothbrush from the grooming supply store (see Figure 12-2)

» A washcloth

» A piece of cotton gauze wrapped around the finger

» Your bare finger

FIGURE 12-2: Make brushing your Husky’s teeth part of your daily routine.

Tip

We recommend beginning the process of dental care for your dog with your finger, as they are likely to accept it without hesitation. Once your dog becomes accustomed to this, you can gradually introduce a toothbrush. The bristles of the toothbrush will effectively clean the area along the gum line where plaque tends to accumulate.

To ensure proper oral hygiene, it is recommended to position the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle and use a circular motion while brushing. It is important to scrub from the crown to the gum, as most plaque buildup occurs on the outer surface of the tooth. It is advisable to focus on both upper and lower teeth, paying particular attention to the larger canines and carnassials located towards the back of the mouth.

Tip

To promote healthy dental hygiene in canines, it is recommended to incorporate dry dog food into their daily diet and provide them with durable chew toys. However, it is important to exercise caution as certain toys may be excessively hard and pose a risk of tooth fracture.

Warning

Halitosis, or bad breath, may indicate dental issues, such as receding or inflamed gums. It can also be linked to stomach disorders or decayed and abscessed teeth.

Regular dental care is essential for maintaining your Husky's oral health, even with diligent brushing. It is recommended to schedule an annual appointment with your veterinarian for a thorough tooth-cleaning procedure, particularly once your dog reaches the age of 6 years. During the procedure, your vet will use ultrasound technology to clean and scale the teeth, removing plaque that cannot be reached through brushing alone, especially below the gum line.

Eyes

It is recommended to clean any ocular discharge from your dog's eyes daily using a clean, damp cloth. It is advised to avoid using cotton balls as they contain fibers that may cause irritation to your dog's eyes. For Siberian dogs with sensitive eyes, it is advisable to use a cream during bathing.

Ears

Siberian dogs are less susceptible to ear problems due to their erect ears. It is important to note that foul-smelling, red, or exudative ears are not normal for this breed. Clear or pale yellow ear wax is normal, whereas black or brown discharge may indicate ear mites or a yeast infection. Additionally, yellow or pus-like discharge is a sign of infection. If your pet exhibits frequent ear scratching or head shaking, it is important to suspect mites or an infection. In the case of a mite infestation, a specialized preparation from a veterinarian is necessary.

Tip

To maintain proper ear hygiene, it is recommended to delicately clean the ear using a cotton ball or a liquid ear-cleaning product, or an alcohol-vinegar solution. It is important to avoid inserting any objects into the dog's ear canal to prevent the risk of damaging the eardrum.

Anal sacs

Emptying your dog's anal sacs is an essential aspect of responsible dog ownership. While dogs usually handle this task themselves, there may be instances where you need to provide assistance. If you observe your dog scooting along the ground, it may be necessary to express or empty the sacs. To do this, gently apply pressure to the outside of each sac at the 10 and 2 o'clock positions below the tail using your thumb and forefinger. It is advisable to use a tissue and stand to one side, as the odor can be unpleasant. If you are uncomfortable performing this task, your veterinarian or groomer can do it for you. It is important to note that routine expression of anal sacs may contribute to future impaction, so it should only be done when necessary.

Warning

In certain instances, it is possible for the anal sacs to become impacted, and in severe cases, surgical removal may be necessary. Fortunately, Siberians do not heavily rely on these sacs, making the procedure relatively inconsequential.

Finding a Professional Groomer

There are situations where it may be beneficial to seek the assistance of a professional groomer for your Husky. It is recommended to seek recommendations from your veterinarian, breeders, boarding kennels, or acquaintances who have had positive experiences with groomers that specialize in Siberians.

Tip

Please contact the potential groomer to inquire about their pricing, products, and procedures. It is important to avoid any unexpected fees. Additionally, kindly confirm whether the groomer mandates proof of bordetella (kennel cough) vaccination. Even if it is not required, please ensure that your dog is vaccinated against it, as there may be other dogs present who have contracted it.

Remember

While a professional groomer can certainly improve the appearance of your Siberian, it is important to remember that regular ear, eye, foot, and tooth care are essential and must be performed by the owner. The groomer should be viewed as a complement to your overall dog care routine, rather than a substitute for it.

It is recommended to observe the groomer's interaction with your dog before entrusting them with the care of your beloved Siberian. It is important to avoid any groomer who exhibits rough handling techniques. Siberians can be a challenging breed to groom, and it is advisable to seek out a groomer with experience in handling this breed. In rare instances, your Husky may require a mild tranquilizer before grooming. It is essential to consult with your veterinarian, who should provide the medication, not the groomer. If a tranquilizer is necessary, it is imperative to ensure that the groomer is knowledgeable in administering the medication or perform the task yourself.

Warning

Please make sure to inform the groomer if your Husky has any fear or discomfort related to grooming, or if they have exhibited any aggressive behavior such as growling or snapping during previous grooming sessions. It is also important to inform the groomer of any underlying health conditions such as arthritis, heart problems, epilepsy, or any other condition that may be exacerbated by the grooming process. This will ensure that the groomer can provide the necessary care and attention to your pet while keeping them safe and comfortable during the grooming session.