Siberian Huskies are hard working dogs. I was always curious about how much food Huskies need to eat to keep going. To please this curiosity, I decided to do a bit more research into how much these active pups need to eat.
So, do Huskies eat a lot? No, most Siberian Huskies do not eat a lot. The majority of Huskies eat far less than other dog breeds of the same size. If a Husky does not move much, they will eat less. Those who are more active will eat more.
There are many reasons why your Husky might eat less than you expect. Some reasons are down to your dog’s genetics, while others are behavioral. Don’t worry if your dog is not eating – there are a few great ways to help them increase their appetite.
Why Huskies Don’t Eat a Lot
Your Husky may have a few reasons for their small appetite. Genetics, poor habits, and illness are all possible causes. But if you notice a sudden change in your dogs appetite, get them checked at the vet.
So, what are some of the reasons your dog might need to eat less than you expect?
Huskies have very high metabolisms. A very small amount of food will keep a Husky going for a long time. This trait comes from their past as sled dogs. Their ancestors ran long distances with only a tiny amount of sustenance.
Today, your Husky might not be pulling a sled, but they still remember their history!
Another reason for the small appetite of many Huskies is the weather. A Husky will eat more in the colder seasons, and less in warmer weather. But if you live somewhere warm year-round – this might be a little confusing for your dog’s instincts.
But this doesn’t mean that your Husky will suffer in a hot climate. Unlike many other dogs, Huskies are able to thrive in almost all temperatures.
Huskies also change their food consumption depending on their exercise levels. A busy Husky will eat more, while an idle dog will want to eat far less. If you notice your dog eating less, think about increasing their exercise routine.
If your dog goes off their food, it might also be boredom. Huskies can be quite picky eaters, and it’s not uncommon for one to get tired of their diet. A bad experience with food (such as getting sick) could turn your Husky off their food for good.
Frustrating if your dog has expensive taste to begin with!
A final reason for your dog’s low appetite could be a poor routine. If you worry about your Husky’s consumption of food, it can be tempting to give them treats during the day. But this can make the problem worse.
If your dog is not hungry during meal time, they will have no incentive to eat. Many Huskies would be happy to live on snacks, treats, and the occasional meal.
While our dogs may be happy with their unhealthy diet, us humans know that they need far more nutrition. But don’t worry! There are a few great ways to help your Husky to put on the pounds.
8 Ways to Help Your Husky Gain Weight
1. Make sure they’re not allergic to their food
If you’re feeding your Husky a commercial dog kibble, check the ingredients. Some cheaper brands bulk out their foods with common allergens like corn. On the list of ingredients, meat should be one of the very first ingredients.
But some dogs can also be allergic to some meats. If your dog seems sick, itchy, lethargic, and their coat looks dull – they might be suffering from an allergy.
Keep an eye on them, and switch their food if they don’t seem right.
2. Give their food a flavor boost
Some Huskies are picky eaters. Even if there’s nothing wrong with their food, one day they might refuse to eat it!
If this sounds like your dog, think about spicing up their food. You can use a little bit of organic peanut butter, wet food, or even a strong smelling dog food seasoning.
Dogs love food with a strong scent – it’s why they are so interested in human food!
Sometimes an extra boost of scent and flavor can reignite a dog’s appetite.
3. Let them cool down
If it’s hotter than usual out, your Husky may be suffering from a low appetite. Many Huskies will eat less on hot days out of instinct.
In summer, make sure that your pup has a good place to cool down. You can get cooling pads, or even shallow metal beds for them to chill out in.
4. Give them chicken broth
If your dog is struggling with gaining weight, try giving them chicken broth. Broth might give them a small extra calorie boost, and increase their appetite. But make sure to choose an unsalted broth, and check that they are still consuming water.
You can also try pouring a little bit of broth over their kibble.
5. Supplement with home cooked snacks
Your dog might get more excited about food with the occasional homemade snack. Try cooking a small treat for your Husky to see if they are more interested in eating.
But remember that your Husky should be getting the majority of their calories from food.
6. Pick a more calorie dense food
If your dog cannot increase their appetite, take a look at the sort of food you are giving them. Different foods have different calorie densities. A high calorie food will help to encourage your dog to gain weight, without them having to eat more.
There are even special dog foods designed to help dogs to gain weight. Make sure to talk to your vet for specific advice on your dog’s nutritional needs.
7. Improve your feeding routine
Keeping a good routine is one of the keys to a happy, healthy dog. If your dog always has food available, they will graze all day, and never feel hunger.
Give your dog the chance to eat at specified times, and then take away their food outside of these times. Call your dog for their food and leave them to eat for ten minutes. After the ten minutes pass, take away the food and don’t give them snacks.
It’s normal for your dog to miss a few meals while they learn their new routine. Don’t force them to eat – they will get hungry!
8. Give them more exercise
As an active breed, your Husky needs a LOT of exercise.
If you don’t encourage your dog to get enough activity, they will eat less and less.
Make sure to give your pup enough to do during the day. They might start eating more on their own.
Related Questions
Your Husky will need at least two hours of exercise per day. But most will need far more than that. Without enough exercise, Huskies will develop behavioral and emotional problems. Take them on long walks, go on jogs, and play with them throughout the day. Also encourage them to use their brains on puzzle toys.
Many dog owners swear by a raw diet for their dogs. They report glossier coats, less stool production, and more energy. But there is still very little evidence about raw diets. Experts disagree on whether this is the best way to feed your dog. If you want to give your dog a raw diet, first talk to your vet.
