Training Your Husky

Siberians are often perceived as being challenging to train, but this reputation is unfounded. When properly matched and trained, a team of Huskies can respond instantly to voice commands from a musher, making them highly trainable. However, as an owner of a Husky, it is important to understand that working with this breed requires training and dedication. Siberians have strong leadership qualities and will only respond to individuals who earn their respect. Additionally, they are highly intelligent and easily bored by routine.

Tip

To effectively work with your Husky, it's important to comprehend its natural characteristics. These include traits that are common among all dogs, breed-specific attributes that are common among all Siberians (refer to Chapter Recognizing What a Siberian Husky Is (and Isn’t) for more information about the breed), and your dog's own unique personality. Dogs, like people, have varying temperaments, so it's essential to understand your particular dog's tendencies for the greatest chance of success. Don't assume that a technique that worked with your other dogs will work with this one, even if they are siblings. If one technique doesn't work, try another one. Every dog has its own learning style, and training a Husky requires ingenuity. You'll need to put in as much effort as your dog, but the benefits are enormous for both of you.

In this chapter, we will provide an overview of how to train your Husky. If you require more detailed assistance, we recommend consulting the latest edition of "Dog Training for Dummies" by Wendy Volhard and Mary Ann Rombold-Ziegenfuse, published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Remember

A Siberian husky is a breed that values loyalty and companionship. They are not meant to be enslaved, but rather to be a proud and dependable friend.

Training the Family before You Train Your Dog

Before you can begin training your Siberian, it is important to train the entire family. Often, family dogs only respond to one person, leaving them untrained when that person is not present. By making dog training a family project, with one person as the training leader, everyone can master the same commands and be able to enforce them. The training leader will teach new skills and practice them with the dog and the rest of the family. A dog that only sits or comes for one member of the family is not fully trained, and a family member who allows a dog to do as it pleases undermines the entire training project.

Remember

Consistency is key when it comes to successful dog training. It can be difficult for a dog to learn what is and isn't allowed, such as being on the couch or jumping up on certain people. It's important to establish boundaries and stick to them, even when it comes to begging for food. By never allowing your Husky to do something that's typically prohibited, you'll set yourself up for long-term success. Siberians are intelligent dogs, so it's worth putting in the effort to train them properly the first time around. You may not get a second chance.

THE WEAK LINK

A Siberian is intelligent enough to find the weakest link in the family, which is usually the person who allows him to do anything, such as beg for food, rush to the door, pull on the leash, and so on. This person can unintentionally undermine all the careful training that the rest of the family has done. Typically, the weakest link is a child, so it is essential to train your children to be pet-savvy while also teaching your dog to obey. This involves instructing your child in kindness, consistency, and healthy leadership behavior.

Setting Your Training Goals

It is important to establish a clear objective for each training session. Without a defined goal, it can be difficult to measure progress and success. Consider the following suggestions to enhance the effectiveness and enjoyment of your training sessions with your Siberian.

» Begin training your Siberian immediately, whether you have a new puppy or a recently adopted older dog. Siberians are known for their strong will and independence. It is important to establish yourself as the alpha, or leader, from the beginning. However, it is crucial to earn your dog's respect through positive reinforcement and not through fear tactics.

» Wait until you’re in a calm and relaxed mood to work with your dog. Siberian Huskies possess an innate ability to perceive and respond to human emotions, making them highly attuned to mood changes. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a positive demeanor during training sessions to ensure that your dog associates the experience with joy and contentment.

» Before you begin training, exercise your Siberian, just to take a little of the edge off. Your Siberian is a lively and enthusiastic breed that requires mental stimulation. To begin training, it is recommended to choose a quiet and distraction-free environment. Short but frequent training sessions are advised, with a suggested frequency of three times a day for 15 minutes each. However, for puppies, it is recommended to keep sessions to 5 minutes at a time. It is important to keep in mind that your Siberian has a lot to process and focus on during training.

» Use the right collar, leash, or halter. To commence basic training for your dog, there are only two essential items required: a collar and a leash, which can be conveniently purchased at your local pet supply store. While not mandatory, a small quantity of treats such as a sliver of cheese or a piece of carrot can be advantageous during the training process. It is important to note that the treats should be in small portions, rather than a whole dog biscuit.

Tip

To ensure a comfortable training experience for your dog, we recommend starting with a simple buckle collar. In the event that this proves ineffective or if your dog has a tendency to pull, more advanced options such as a choke collar or prong collar may be necessary. However, it is always best to begin with the gentlest approach possible. With proper training techniques, a buckle collar may be all that is required. For those seeking an alternative, head-halter type collars have proven successful in allowing even children to walk larger dogs with ease. For further discussion on leashes, harnesses, and collars, please refer to Chapter 4.

» Work on only one command at a time. Once your puppy has successfully completed three commands such as Sit, Down, or Heel, it is recommended to conclude the training session on a positive note. It is essential to ensure that your furry friend associates training with positivity. Take some time out to enjoy each other's company and engage in fun activities.

» If your dog doesn’t seem to be paying attention to your firm and repeated commands, try whispering. The lower tone and distorted voice may capture the attention of your Husky and encourage them to focus on understanding your message.

» Keep a logbook of your training sessions, and write down what your goal is for each session. It is recommended to keep a record of each training session and its outcomes. This practice will provide you with a valuable resource for future reference and help you stay focused on your specific goals. It is important to avoid overexertion during each session and maintain a realistic approach.

Agreeing on Commands

When communicating with your Husky, keep it simple. Your Siberian doesn't need to hear about Shakespeare. Use short, clear, and consistent commands. For example, decide on the "Come" command and stick to it. Avoid saying "Come" one time and "Here, boy" the next. Commands can be phrases, as Siberians are able to understand and pick out important words. Just remember that, from your Husky's perspective, important words are more likely to be "ride" and "pizza" than "stay".

Remember

Once your Husky understands a command, avoid repeating it. Repeating a command teaches your dog that there's no need to sit or come the first time you give it, which is not the message you want to convey. Give the command once and then wait. If your dog doesn't respond appropriately, enforce the command quietly in the same way you did during the initial training. Remember to stay calm and never lose your temper with your dog.

Tip

As part of your training, write down in your notebook every word you use during your lessons and the corresponding meaning for your dog. Mark every command that your Husky reliably obeys with a star. The purpose of the notebook is to track your progress in your lessons.

The sections below offer some helpful tips to assist your dog in becoming the well-behaved companion you desire. Remember, training requires cooperation and teamwork between owner and pet.

Commanding without words

You have the option to incorporate whistles or gestures as part of your dog's communication repertoire. Many individuals find it pleasant when their dogs acknowledge these cues in addition to verbal commands. You will observe that your Husky may spontaneously learn certain words such as "biscuit," "ride," or "bath," without explicit instruction from you, whereas other words, such as "come," may prove to be too complex for their cognitive abilities.

Paying attention to your tone of voice

When training your dog, it's important to use two distinct tones. The first is a bright tone, used for positive reinforcement like saying "Good girl!" or "Let's go for a walk!" The second tone is a darker tone, relying on the lower end of your vocal range, and is reserved for negative reinforcement like saying "Bad boy!" or "Quit that!" Consistently practicing these tones is crucial, as it's easy to mix them up.

Using your dog’s name

Tip

It's best to avoid using your dog's name in negative situations, such as scolding or forcibly taking them to the bathroom. Doing so could make it less likely that they'll respond positively when called. While there's no guarantee that they'll respond positively anyway, there's no need to decrease the likelihood.

Teaching Your Husky the Basics

It is important for every dog to learn certain commands. In the following sections, I will provide information on the most crucial commands and how to effectively teach them to your dog. Any additional commands learned are considered a bonus. It is recommended to incorporate the word "please" when giving commands. This serves as a reminder to use a calm and pleasant tone of voice, which in turn promotes a positive and relaxed environment for the dog. It is important to maintain a positive attitude and work collaboratively with your dog. Utilizing the word "please" is not a form of begging, but rather a display of common courtesy.

Remember

There are various ways to reward your dog, including treats, affection, or playtime with another canine. A study conducted by Swedish scientists, utilizing Beagles, revealed that dogs exhibit a greater interest in their rewards when they have to complete a task to obtain them. This indicates that dogs possess a natural inclination to acquire knowledge, which can be beneficial for their training and development.

Watch Me!

Effective training can only commence if your dog has been trained to maintain eye contact with you while responding to your commands. Although some dogs may have a natural inclination towards this behavior, Huskies in particular tend to take pleasure in looking away from their owners. Nonetheless, this behavior can be easily corrected through training. According to scientific research, this exchange of affectionate gazes between dogs and their owners has been shown to release oxytocin, commonly referred to as the love hormone.

Tip

To capture your Husky's focus, utilize treats or a toy that you know your dog enjoys. This will create an association between paying attention to you and something desirable. While most dogs can quickly learn this behavior, some may perceive direct eye contact as a threat. It is crucial to reward your dog patiently and kindly when they look at you on command to help them regain their confidence. Begin by holding the reward near their nose and gradually move it up to your eye level. As your training advances, you can introduce distractions.

Come

The command that holds the utmost significance for any canine is Come, also known as the Recall command in advanced obedience courses and the show circuit. Regrettably, it is also the most challenging directive for dogs to comply with. Even the most well-trained Siberian Husky, who responds promptly to the command in the obedience ring, may not do so outside if given an opportunity to run swiftly and extensively in the opposite direction. Moreover, the dog does not require any justification for its actions, as being unrestrained and unencumbered is a matter of great importance to many Siberians.

Warning

When a dog responds to a command only about half of the time, it cannot be considered a reliable recall. It is rare for Huskies to return to their owner consistently when they are distracted and in an unfenced area. Although Huskies are intelligent and attractive, their unreliability makes the Come command a challenging objective to achieve.

If your Siberian dog happens to run away, it is important to take responsibility for the situation. It is crucial to remind yourself that you were advised to keep your dog on a leash. It is recommended to locate your dog promptly. Teaching your dog the "Come" command is essential, as it increases the likelihood of obedience in challenging situations. This command should be the first one taught, as it can be a vital tool for retrieving your dog if they escape from the house or slip their leash. It is important to have a plan in place to ensure your dog's safety.

Warning

Numerous resources offer guidance on effectively training your dog to consistently respond to your call. However, it is important to note that certain breeds, such as Huskies, may not always comply. To ensure the safety of your pet, it is recommended to keep them on a leash.

In order to enhance the likelihood of success, it is recommended to consistently associate positive experiences with approaching behavior in dogs. This can be achieved through offering small treats or verbal praise each time the dog approaches. It is important to refrain from calling the dog for activities that may be perceived as punishment, such as nail clipping or bathing. It is crucial to consistently provide positive reinforcement for the dog's behavior, even in situations where the owner may have been previously frustrated.

When calling your Husky, it is important to maintain a positive and upbeat tone, regardless of any personal frustration. Disciplining your dog upon their arrival may result in confusion or defiance, as they may not understand the appropriate response to your command. It is crucial to avoid undermining your dog's intelligence or trust, as this may lead to further disobedience.

Tip

To commence training the Come command, it is recommended to utilize a 10- or 12-foot lead attached to the dog. This approach will prevent your Siberian from disregarding your instructions. In the event that the dog moves in an incorrect direction, gently pull on the lead to guide them towards you. It is important to offer positive reinforcement by praising the dog for their efforts.

It is recommended to keep your dog on a lead until they respond eagerly every time. If you find yourself having to pull your dog to come, they may not be ready for off-lead training. One of the most common mistakes people make is overestimating their dog's obedience and allowing them off the lead too soon. When beginning off-lead training, it is important to ensure your dog is in a confined area, preferably the house, where you can easily retrieve them if they choose to ignore your call or whistle. It is important to avoid punishing your dog for errors and instead, reward them for correct behavior. Remember to only praise or reward your dog once they come all the way to you, right to your feet, as dogs are clever at knowing precisely how far your reach is.

Tip

It is recommended to consider incorporating a whistle, clicker, or other unique sound in conjunction with the Come command. Dog whistles can be particularly helpful tools as they emit a far-reaching and distinct sound. It is important to note that the sound may not be audible to the human ear, making it difficult to determine its effectiveness. However, it is a technique that requires trust in its effectiveness.

Remember

Positive reinforcement is an essential aspect of effective training. To optimize its effectiveness, it is recommended to provide treats and enthusiastic praise intermittently, even after the desired behavior has been learned. It is important to note that if praise is discontinued after the behavior has been learned, the dog may revert to disobedient behavior in order to receive rewards, as was previously observed.

No!

It is recommended to refrain from adding the word "please" to the command "no" when training your dog, as it can send the wrong message. "No" should be used to immediately stop unwanted behavior, and can be combined with a specific reference to what the dog is doing wrong, such as "No chew" to indicate that the dog should stop chewing on a particular item. Some may believe that using "no" too frequently can be harsh, but it is simply a guide to correct behavior that dogs can easily learn and understand. If your dog is engaging in inappropriate behavior, redirect their attention with a more appropriate activity and offer praise for good behavior. It is important to maintain consistency in both tone and body language when giving commands, as dogs can easily pick up on any inconsistencies and become confused about what is expected of them.

Remember

The word "no" can be confusing to dogs if it is not used immediately after the undesirable behavior. It is not effective to enter a room several minutes after a doily has been eaten, hold one up to the dog's face, and yell "no" repeatedly. This will only lead to confusion, and the dog may not understand the reason for the reprimand.

Sit

Teaching your Husky to sit is a straightforward process. Begin by gently pushing their rump to the ground and using a firm, encouraging tone to say, "Sit, Icicle." You may also use a treat to encourage them to sit by holding it slightly above their eye level. Remember to praise your dog when they succeed, but be sure to do so as they sit down, not as they begin to stand up. To signal that it's time for your Siberian to stand up, use a release command such as "break." Avoid using common words like "okay," which may lead to confusion. While the Sit command may not be particularly useful in everyday situations, it is a popular command due to its ease of teaching and perceived control over the dog.

Warning

It is recommended to avoid using the Sit command to address negative behavior in dogs as this does not effectively teach them to halt the behavior. Rather, it reinforces the Sit command and the dog is likely to continue with the negative behavior until instructed to sit again. This can become a repetitive cycle throughout the dog's life. The Sit command should solely mean to sit and not serve as a way to stop unwanted behavior. To effectively address unwanted behavior, it is important to teach the dog to cease that specific behavior. In instances where you want the dog to stop a behavior immediately, using the command "No" is recommended.

Stay

When training your dog, there are different approaches to teaching the Stay command. Some trainers opt for a separate Stay command, while others prefer to use the Sit command for both actions. The Stay command is based on the philosophy that the dog will anticipate a longer wait period and be less stressed. Conversely, using one command is believed to be simpler for the dog and teaches patience. Both methods have proven successful in practice. It is also possible to use the Stay command with a standing dog. When beginning training, it is important to start small and not expect the dog to stay for more than a few seconds initially. To begin training the Stay command, it is recommended to have your Husky stay in a corner to reduce the number of escape routes. Gradually, the stay time can be increased. If the dog starts to get up, simply say "Stay!" and shake the lead before putting them back in position. Praise should be given when the dog responds correctly.

Down

Teaching the Down command to your Husky requires a considerable amount of trust between you and your pet. Although it may pose some challenges, using this command can prove to be beneficial. However, it's important to note that in most cases, the Sit command is sufficient. To begin, instruct your dog to sit and then say, "Down," while applying gentle pressure to their withers or luring them down with a treat. If your Husky tries to get up, lean against their shoulder until they resume the down position. It's recommended to teach this command when your dog is well-exercised and perhaps a little tired. Afterward, praise them quietly and refrain from getting too excited as it may cause them to get up. Remember to never force or bully your dog into a Down as it's not worth it.

Leave or Get Out

A recommended method to remove dogs from the kitchen while cooking or dining is by using the Leave or Get Out command. To teach this command, gently remove your dog by the collar to the desired room and offer praise. When your dog returns, calmly say "Please leave" and repeat until it is understood. Treats may be used to reinforce this behavior. It is important to note that dogs, such as Huskies, can comprehend the function of doorways and will soon leave any room when requested. While some dogs may test their boundaries, they will ultimately stay out of the forbidden room.

Off

The command "off" is used to prompt a dog to get off the couch. It is a specific and effective command that provides clear direction to the animal. Additionally, "off" serves as a positive reinforcer and can be utilized for a variety of tasks, such as instructing the dog to jump out of the back of a vehicle.

Give It and Drop It

The aforementioned commands hold distinct meanings, and it is imperative for a well-trained dog to understand both. For instance, while you may desire your dog to relinquish the stick he has retrieved for you, you may prefer him to drop the mouse he has found. It is advisable to train your Siberian to allow you to remove any object from his mouth without resistance. This training process requires the use of high-value treats.

Heel

A well-trained, obedient dog that walks calmly by your side can be a source of great joy. The effort invested in teaching your canine companion to heel will pay off in spades when you find yourself strolling with ease, confidently carrying a baby, groceries, or even a trophy won at a dog show. For those with a puppy, take solace in the fact that teaching them to heel is much simpler than with an older dog. Puppies are naturally inclined to follow their owner and have yet to develop any undesirable behaviors that need to be corrected.

Tip

For optimal training exercises, we recommend utilizing a 6-foot nylon or leather lead. Nylon provides an advantage over leather as it is less susceptible to being chewed by your Husky. However, it is important to note that pulling on a nylon leash can result in a serious rope burn. It is crucial to train your Siberian not to strain at the leash to prevent any potential discomfort or injury.

Warning

Don’t use a chain leash. They are too heavy and noisy.

When selecting a collar for your dog, it is recommended to use a regular collar if your dog responds well to it. This will create a more enjoyable experience for both you and your dog, resulting in better behavior in the long run. It is important to ensure that the collar is properly fitted, allowing for two fingers to be comfortably slipped under it. In the event that a choke collar must be used, it is crucial to adjust it correctly. It is not recommended to use a harness for training a dog to walk with you.

Warning

It is recommended to avoid wrapping the leash around your hand as it may be less effective and can potentially harm your hand if the dog suddenly pulls. While dogs are traditionally trained to heel on the left side, there is no strict rule about it. If you prefer your Husky to heel on the right side, that is acceptable. It is worth noting that some left-handed individuals may also prefer walking their dogs on the right side. However, if you plan on showing your dog in conformation or obedience, it is advisable to follow the customary practice of heeling on the left side.

To begin training your Husky to heel, start by making physical contact with him. This will prompt him to look up at you, which is a positive sign. Your goal is to capture his attention and ensure he remains focused on you throughout the exercise. Give the command, "Tundra, heel," and begin walking. It's important to keep your dog's chest in line with your knee and prevent him from leading with his nose. While some owners use treats as a training aid, it's up to you to decide whether or not this method aligns with your training philosophy.

Remember

During the heeling exercise, it is important to maintain focus and avoid distractions. It is recommended to discourage your Siberian from stopping, lagging, lunging ahead, or getting distracted while training. However, after a successful Heel, it is acceptable to take a brief break from training. To signal the break, loosen the leash and use a clear command such as "Relax." During this time, your dog may be allowed to sniff around, but it is important to ensure that they do not pull on the leash.

Tip

During the heeling exercise, it is recommended to stop at every curb as it serves as a beneficial practice for both you and your Husky. It is important to prevent your Husky from assuming that it is acceptable to run across the street. Once the heeling exercise is completed, it is advised to loosen the lead entirely and use the command "Break" to indicate that your Husky may now explore and behave naturally.

Correcting forging in your Husky

Siberians are known to have a tendency to pull at the lead, also referred to as forging. This characteristic is innate in the independent-minded breed and requires encouragement from their owners to differentiate between pulling a sled and walking with a human. Forging behavior can start even before attaching the lead to the collar, and it is crucial to address this behavior beforehand to ensure a smooth walk. It is recommended to have the Siberian sit or stand quietly during the lead attachment process, and to avoid putting the lead on while the dog is overly excited. Consistently reinforcing calm behavior will help the dog understand that quiet behavior is necessary for walks. Failure to do so may result in a struggle before the walk even begins.

Training your dog not to forge

When your Husky starts to pull, you can try these few suggestions to get him to stop:

» Turn the other way. Continuously execute this technique without any specific pattern to draw the subject's attention towards you. As no individual appreciates being forcefully pulled, their focus will naturally shift towards you, prompting them to anticipate your next moves. Employ a calm and assertive tone while instructing them to heel as you turn.

» Don’t go around aimlessly turning, however, just in order to confuse the dog. It is recommended to utilize those turns only when your Husky pulls against you. Typically, Huskies possess the ability to identify the path and will walk along it independently. This is also applicable to sled dogs, as they tend to follow the trail they observe.

» Walk backward. It is recommended that one does not allow their dog to pull them during walks. Using an anti-pulling harness may be necessary, especially in the beginning stages of training. The goal is to discourage the habit of forging, which can be achieved through consistent training. It is important to note that Huskies typically do not lag behind during walks.

» Gradually loosen the lead. As your Husky's walking behavior progresses, it is advisable to gradually loosen the lead to enable a pleasant stroll without any leadership struggles. Once your dog is well-trained to heel, you can allow him to wander around, sniff, and explore. However, it is crucial to ensure that when you give the command "Heel, Snowbird," he immediately resumes correct heeling. It is important to remember that the leash is an extension of you, and it is not advisable to praise or treat your dog when the leash is taut. This is because a taut lead indicates that your dog is resisting you, and it is not a behavior you want to reward.

Using devices to stop forging

At times, it may be necessary to seek mechanical assistance when initiating your dog's walking training. This is particularly applicable when dealing with an adult dog lacking prior heel training, and if you lack the necessary strength.

The effectiveness of the traditional choke collar may be limited due to the opposition reflex exhibited by some dogs. Pulling back on the collar can actually cause the dog to resist further. This is particularly true for Huskies, who have a natural inclination to pull and can even snap a choke chain due to their impressive strength. If you are struggling to control your Husky's pulling behavior, it may be beneficial to consider using a supplementary training device.

» No-pull harness: There are several types of "no pull" harnesses that are currently available in the market. However, the front loop harness is my preferred choice due to its simplicity and effectiveness. Unlike regular harnesses, this type of harness allows you to lead your dog without triggering a pull reflex. This is particularly useful for Huskies. If you need your dog to pull a sled, you can use a traditional sledding harness. For a peaceful walk, the front loop harness is the ideal choice. The best part is that no training is required.

» Halter: Head halters such as the Halti-collar, Gentle Leader, or Snoot Loop are highly effective in steering a dog's head, while being gentle at the same time. They can be safely used in lieu of a regular collar and are particularly useful when a child is walking the dog. While it may take some time for your dog to adjust to the head halter, it is a kind and effective device. However, it is important to exercise caution and avoid yanking on the leash when your dog is wearing a head halter, as this can cause neck sprains and injuries.

» Self-correcting collar: A different type of collar, which is referred to as a pinch, self-correcting, prong, spike, or German collar, may appear intimidating at first glance, but it is not. Its function mimics the gentle nipping that a mother dog administers to her young. It is important to note that the use of such collars indicates that your dog requires training and is not well-behaved. Prolonged use of these collars is not recommended and may indicate improper use.

Taking Advantage of Formal Obedience Training

If you find yourself struggling to handle your Siberian or would like additional guidance, consider enlisting the help of a professional trainer. Taking classes can provide the motivation and structure necessary to properly train your dog. Additionally, if you have aspirations of more advanced training, working with a professional trainer from the outset can set you on the right path.

Tip

It is important to establish your goals when it comes to training your pet. Consider whether you are seeking to improve your pet's behavior or if you have aspirations to compete in obedience competitions. It is recommended that you seek out a professional trainer who can cater to your specific needs. Keep in mind that a reputable trainer will invest significant time training you as well as your pet.

Finding a qualified dog trainer can be a challenging task as there are no state licensing requirements for this profession. It is important to conduct a thorough evaluation of the trainer's qualifications, experience, and recommendations before making a decision. Inquiring about membership in dog trainers' organizations can provide insight into the trainer's commitment to staying current with the latest research. Additionally, it is important to find a trainer who has experience working with breeds beyond the typical obedience naturals such as Border Collies and Labrador Retrievers. For instance, a Siberian Husky requires specialized attention and training techniques, such as treats, that may not be used with standard obedience breeds.

Tip

When seeking an instructor for dog training, it is important to find someone who will attentively listen to you and utilize positive reinforcement methods. It is also recommended to select an instructor who has a positive rapport with your dog and vice versa to avoid any potential personality conflicts during the training process. It is advisable to seek recommendations from your veterinarian, breed club, or trusted acquaintances who have worked with a reputable trainer. Additionally, it is prudent to conduct an interview with the trainer prior to making a commitment.

Remember

A competent trainer will provide you with a comprehensive pricing guide and attainable objectives. They will assign you and your furry companion tasks to complete, and guide you towards achieving your desired outcomes.