Athletic, outgoing, and loyal, Huskies are one of the most popular dog breeds among dog lovers everywhere.
Huskies are indeed a very beautiful dog breed. Their uniquely colored sharp and piercing eyes (that come in blue, brown, and sometimes a combination of the two), their fun personality, and their powerful stature makes the Husky a very popular breed with all dog lovers alike. But how much do husky puppies cost?
FYI: when people say the word Huskies, they're usually referring to a Siberian Husky, which is the most commonly known Husky dog. Ranking at No. 15 on the American Kennel Club's (AKC) 2020 list of most popular dog breeds, it's easy to see why the Siberian Husky has captured the hearts of many!
If you want to bring home one of these beautiful purebred dogs, keep in mind that dog food (even dry food), vaccinations, supplements, and veterinary care for health issues can cost just as much as any dog, but Huskies themselves are much more expensive than labradors or mixed breeds. Potential pet parents should keep in mind that as beautiful as Huskies are, they are not a breed for everyone; make sure to do your homework before bringing one home! Here is what a Siberian Husky puppy will cost you.
How Much Do Huskies Cost?
While Siberian Husky puppy prices differ greatly on things such as location, breed lineage, and a breeder versus a private sale (like pet stores), the average Siberian Husky price won't run you and your wallet up too much. But as with most pets, there is a pretty wide price range. Potential Husky dog owners should expect to pay around $800 to $1500 give or take, with the average cost range of a quality puppy being from $800 to $1200 in most states.
Of course, Husky puppy costs will largely depend on whether you go through a reputable breeder, a backyard breeder, or your local pet store. Though many states no longer allow puppies to be adopted through pet stores anymore.
Even though backyard breeders and private sales like pet stores will often have a lower price tag for Husky puppies, it's often better to adopt through reputable breeders. Husky breeders care about the well-being of the pup and their reputation is based on having high-quality dogs. You can usually see what the parents look like as well as have more information about their lineage and health history. Going through a reputable breeder for your new dog also ensures you are not getting a pet from a puppy mill. Reputable breeders will also start initial dog training before the puppies head to their new home and will have 1-2 checkups under their belt. They will have some socialization with other dogs and people.
Coat color can also affect the cost of your Husky puppy. Pure white Huskies or those with the Agouti coat pattern can cost upwards of $3,000. Some non-purebred huskies are often mixed with Alaskan Malamutes or German Shepherds, especially those that are found in shelters and at animal rescues. If you get your pup from a rescue or shelter the cost will depend on the shelter's pricing whether they are purebred or not.
Fun Fact: Siberian Husky dogs with better bloodlines or a higher pedigree will cost you more! A purebred Siberian Husky costs up to $2,500 especially if you are looking at show-quality dogs.
Siberian Husky Health Costs
A working dog, Siberian Huskies were first developed as endurance sled dogs. Their athleticism and strength allow them to, by working in packs, pull light loads quickly across the frozen tundra. These are a generally healthy breed, but prone to certain health problems like cataracts, corneal dystrophy, entropion, deafness, and the common hip dysplasia in adult dogs.
It is wise to get pet insurance for your new dog because some of their health issues can lead to pretty hefty vet bills. If you are getting your pup from a breeder you will also need to factor in the cost to spay or neuter your pup.
Is a Husky Right for Me?
Huskies are cute, but it's important to figure out if this breed is right for you. Husky abandonment is a real problem, as this breed is often adopted for its looks before owners realize its other needs. Huskies have a very high activity level and can get bored easily. As a new Husky owner, you will need to make sure they have plenty of toys and activities or they will get bored. These dogs will, like most extremely active dogs, become destructive if their high activity needs are not met.
Potential dog owners should not adopt a Husky puppy if they can't provide regular exercise and enrichment for this pup. Huskies love having a job, and are not particularly good apartment dwellers. Before adopting a Husky, also make sure that they're compatible with your other pets. While some cats and Huskies get along, there are also plenty of horror stories about Huskies and feline friends. As always, taking on a dog is a responsibility. Make sure you can provide adequately for your Husky before you run out to buy one!
If you buy a Husky puppy, make sure to buy a quality set of grooming tools. Coat blow is no joke!
Do you live with a Husky? Share your Siberian on the Wide Open Pets Facebook page!
This article was originally published on December 30, 2020.
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