Care Guide for Arctic Breeds
Welcoming an arctic breed into your home is one of life's great joys, and one of its great responsibilities. The dogs rehomed through Summit Farms Rescue are extraordinary animals with specific needs rooted in thousands of years of working in some of the world's harshest conditions. This guide covers everything you need to know to give your dog a long, healthy and happy life.
Training
Consistent, positive and patient. Arctic breeds are intelligent but independent thinkers.
Grooming
Regular brushing is essential. Expect heavy seasonal shedding twice a year.
Health
Routine vet visits and awareness of breed-specific conditions will keep your dog thriving.
Nutrition
High quality, high protein food tailored to size, age and activity level.
Training
Arctic breeds are highly intelligent dogs that respond best to respectful, consistent leadership rather than harsh corrections. Their independent nature, a trait bred into them over thousands of years of working autonomously, means they may question commands rather than obey blindly. This is not stubbornness, it is intelligence.
Training Tips
- Begin socialization and basic obedience as early as possible, ideally as a puppy
- Use positive reinforcement including treats, praise and play rewards
- Keep training sessions short and varied to hold their attention
- Practice recall intensively before allowing off-leash in open areas
- Expose your dog to a wide variety of people, animals, sounds and environments early on
- Enroll in a structured obedience class with an experienced trainer familiar with working breeds
All dogs adopted from Summit Farms have completed a basic behavioral assessment. We will share this report with you at the time of adoption to help you understand your new dog's individual needs.
Grooming
Arctic breeds have thick double coats designed to protect them in extreme cold. This coat requires regular maintenance to keep your dog comfortable and your home manageable. Both Malamutes and Huskies shed heavily twice a year in a process called blowing the coat, during which they release their entire undercoat over several weeks.
Grooming Routine
- Brush 3 to 4 times per week during normal periods
- Brush daily during seasonal coat blowing periods
- Bathe every 6 to 8 weeks or as needed
- Trim nails every 3 to 4 weeks
- Check and clean ears weekly
- Brush teeth regularly to prevent dental disease
- Never shave an arctic breed's double coat, it protects against both cold and heat
Invest in a high quality undercoat rake and slicker brush. A deshedding tool used weekly can dramatically reduce the amount of hair in your home during shedding season.
Health
With proper care, arctic breeds enjoy life expectancies of 10 to 14 years. Routine veterinary visits are essential for catching potential issues early. Being aware of breed-specific health conditions will help you monitor your dog and take action quickly when needed.
Common Health Concerns
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia , common in large breeds, manage with regular screening and weight control
- Hypothyroidism , watch for weight gain and coat changes, regular blood tests recommended
- Cataracts and Eye Conditions , annual ophthalmic exams are recommended for all arctic breeds
- Bloat (GDV) , life-threatening condition, prevent by avoiding exercise immediately after meals
- Zinc-Responsive Dermatosis , skin and coat issues related to zinc absorption, more common in Huskies
- Polyneuropathy , a neuromuscular condition seen in some Alaskan Huskies, watch for weakness or coordination issues
All Summit Farms dogs receive a full veterinary health check before adoption. Records of vaccinations, spay or neuter, and any known health history will be provided at the time of adoption.
Nutrition
Proper nutrition is the foundation of a long and healthy life for your arctic breed. These are active, high-energy dogs that require a high quality, high protein diet tailored to their size, age and activity level. Always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog's diet.
Feeding Guidelines
- Choose a high quality commercial dog food formulated for large, active breeds
- Alaskan Malamutes typically require 2 to 4.5 cups of dry food daily depending on size and activity level
- Siberian Huskies typically require 1.5 to 3 cups of dry food daily
- Divide daily portions into two meals to reduce the risk of bloat
- Always ensure fresh water is available at all times
- Avoid feeding immediately before or after vigorous exercise
- Monitor weight carefully, obesity puts significant stress on joints in large breeds
We will provide information on what each dog has been eating during their time with us. We recommend transitioning to any new food gradually over 7 to 10 days to avoid digestive upset.
Exercise
These breeds were built to run. At least one to two hours of vigorous exercise every day is the minimum requirement for a healthy and well-behaved arctic breed. A dog that does not get enough exercise will find its own entertainment, which rarely aligns with what their owner has in mind.
Daily Walks
At least one long walk per day, ideally two. These dogs need to cover ground. A fifteen-minute stroll around the block will not be sufficient.
- Minimum 45 to 60 minutes per walk
- Use a secure harness
- Practice leash manners consistently
Off Leash Activity
A securely fenced yard is ideal for off-leash play. These dogs have a strong wandering instinct and should never be trusted off leash in an unfenced area.
- Fencing must be at least 6 feet tall
- Check for digging escape routes regularly
- Supervise outdoor time always
Mental Stimulation
Physical exercise alone is not enough. Arctic breeds need mental challenges to stay balanced and content. A bored arctic breed is a destructive one.
- Puzzle feeders and enrichment toys
- Nose work and scent games
- Obedience training as daily mental exercise
Ready to Adopt?
If you feel prepared to welcome one of these magnificent dogs into your home, we would love to hear from you. Browse our available dogs or contact Brad and Janet directly with any questions. We are here to help you find the perfect match.