Afraid of Water??

Question
My husky is deathly afraid of water.  We will put a baby pool up in the 90 deg weather and the other dogs will play in it, and he stays 10 feet clear of it.  Even if there is a puddle on the ground he will walk all the way around it.  He dreads his yearly bath with a passion.  Is it normal for Huskies to HATE water?  What can I do to make him more comfortable with swimming?

Answer
Yes it is normal for a husky to be afraid of water. In Siberia if they would of gotten wet, it would of meant their death, it is ingrained into some of them. I isn't completely uncommon for them not to fear water ether. It is like tossing a coin how they will land on this phobia.
This may sound mean but don't react at all to his fear of water. I would in fact take him in the bathroom for about a weeks time and play with him in the bathroom (or wherever you give him baths) with the tub, basin or pool empty. As soon as he doesn't hesitate going into the areas, and seems to look forward to his playtime, start running water or just put a inch or less of water into the places he fears. Continue playing you can add more water as he gets comfortable don't force him near the water just keep him in a comfortable distance and bring him closer slowly. After he gets comfortable you might want to give him baths more often. Use warm water (not hot or cold)and take a long time with the shampooing, this is my dogs favorite part of the bath, so I let them enjoy it for quite a while.
If I need to clarify anything please ask!
-Michelle B