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Huskies and Climate

20 9:16:03

Question
I have a question.  My wife went to the SPCA and saw a siberian husky mix.  Looks almost 100% and wants to buy him.  I am fine with it except I just want to make sure it's the right decision for us.  We live in Texas and as imagined, it is hot here.  We have a dog now, which stays in the house while we are at work, but we take him on walks and take him to the beach or whatever.  I was thinking it might be to hot here as they are "Siberian" huskies.  I know we keep them inside but would you recommend for or against owning a dog in a generally warm/hot climate?  I know the obvious things we can do.  I guess I am just looking for a confirmation that its the right place for the dog.

Answer
It is good to be concerned, and if you are concerned - generally you'll take the necessary precautions.  Siberians are arctic dogs and thrive in cold weather.  Once you've seen a Sibe running through the snow, tongue hanging out and plowing through it, you know they were bred to be in it.  However, Siberians are also great dogs that love people, and people aren't always in snow.  With some precautions I know Siberian Huskies that thrive in places like Mexico City, South Africa and the Australian outback.  They can do just fine in warmer climates.  Also, while there is a temptation to shave the coats, the fur acts as an insulation both against heat and cold, so they do better with the fur in the summer months then you might think.  Also, fleas and ticks which are more prevalent in the summer months, have problems with the thick Siberian fur.  Also, as the dog gets older and lives in the climate longer, the coat will thin some to a more apporpriate level.  Of course, massive amounts of shedding will be the method to this change, but an indoor dog in Texas should be just fine.  Afterall, if the dog is at the SPCA, it's already in Texas - the dog will probably do much better at a home that is concerned about the heat than one who isn't.  If the SPCA is in Alaska though, I'd recommend letting it stay there.  :)