The Siberian Husky runs. When they can they will run and run and run. And if you prevent them from running – fence it in or whatever, and fail to take it for a supervised run every day at least, they will find a way to escape and run. The thing is, do Huskies run away (and not come back)? In other words, do they run away with the express intention of not returning?
Do Huskies run away a lot? Usually not. They will escape but usually they will come back. They will come when you call and if they are still close enough to hear.
The problem with Huskies escaping is that they run so fast and can go on for so long that they often get lost or run over, especially in urban areas. There is also the problem that they love humans and will go with a well-meaning, or ill-meaning, human who spots them and tries to rescue them. Many lessons here to take to heart.
What Would Make a Husky Escape? (And How to Deal With it)
Escaping to run is not running away. However, you could say that they run “away” because you would not be able to catch them when they’re going at top speed. That’s 28 miles per hour, just in case you think you can.
Huskies are intelligent, inquisitive, active and sociable. Even if you have taken all precautions, it may still be enticed to escape (and run). Here are some reasons why it may escape and some ideas on what to do about it.
1. It is Not Getting Enough Exercise
Insufficient exercise is the #1 reason why a Husky will escape.
If your Husky is running up and down the fence or around in circles for an inordinate length of time (check with neighbors, they often see things that you do not) it is a sure sign that it needs more exercise than you are giving it.
2. It is Alone, and Therefore Lonely
It is best if you can spend the whole day with your Husky. Of course, that is rarely possible for most people.
If there really is nobody at home – no adult, no kids, no gardener, nobody – it is better to at least get it another canine companion.
Naturally, it would be the ultimate to get another Husky. If you can not, another dog that can keep up with the energetic, playful Husky is an option. Consider Labs, Retrievers, Standard Poodles and Pointers.
3. The Dog is Bored
Even with another dog to play with and lots of physical exercise, your Husky may be mentally bored.
Remember you have an exceptionally sharp dog who is also inquisitive. An easy (obvious) solution is to supply her with interesting dog toys.
Husky owners advise that you should have a large selection available but not give it all at once. Rather exchange the toys every so often to keep the newness stimulation going.
4. Your Husky is Horny!
There is a bitch in heat nearby and your dog is not neutered.
It’s the animal kingdom, baby!
Oh, Harry. Why do you not neuter your dog?
There are so many more benefits than disadvantages. If you are keeping him “whole” for breeding purposes you know what to do during mating season so do it.
If the reason is anything else, think again.
Is misplaced sentimentality really worth the trouble for your dog, yourself, and everybody around?
Other Behavior
- Running in agitated small circles or chasing its tail until it collapses is called the zoomies. It is different from the endless patrolling of a fence or yard perimeter. But do not be fooled by the fun tag – it could be an indicator of serious problems. It is called FRAP by vets – Frenetic Random Activity Periods. If it lasts for a few minutes and occurs only occasionally, it’s just a way of getting rid of too much energy. If it lasts for longer times and occurs every day, it is a sure sign of stress and may lead to escape attempts.
- Digging underneath a fence and then escaping may seem like it is done intentionally. Keep in mind that Huskies used to dig hollows for shelter in the snow when they were living out in the tundra. This behavior is ingrained and it is natural for them to dig. Pair this with their curiosity and the absence of snow, and they will dig at other objects, most notably the fence. Once it discovers that digging opens up a way to get on the other side of the fence, your trouble is booked.
Tips to Help Find a Runaway Husky
1. Microchip Your Husky
A dog tag and collar is the traditional way of identifying a dog and supplying a number where a lost dog’s owner can be contacted. For any active dog that is not such a good idea.
Tags and collars are notorious for snagging on fences, bushes, and other obstacles. If it does not break off, it can strangle the dog. You do not want that.
Rather, microchip your Sibe. It is more expensive but it can not get lost.
2. GPS Your Husky
If you really want to go high tech, there are GPS tracking systems that enable you to track your dog using your computer.
Unfortunately, this does mean that your dog will have to wear a collar with the device attached. Lighter and smaller devices are available but have a shorter range, about 400 feet.
3. The Husky Call
It’s too late when the dog has already disappeared but here is one of the best tips to find it: train your Husky from puppyhood to always come when you give a specific call.
Yeah, yeah, I can hear all of you hosing yourselves out there, but try it. This call must mean:
Divine treat, come immediately!
For you, it means emergency, but never let the Husky discover that.
You must pick a unique and very loud sound and connect it with something absolutely divine for your dog. This divinity you must discover for yourself, each individual dog is different.
The huge trick is not to overuse it because then the association with the divine treat that follows is lost. If you use this call when the dog has run away, and it is at all within hearing distance it should come.
Be very careful because they will run right across the road and in front of traffic in their eagerness to get the special treat.
4. Post Fliers
This may seem obvious but it can catch you out. Making up fliers and posters to paste in the neighborhood and in the shops is a method that most owners use.
But for that to work you have to have a recent photograph of your dog!
And it must be clear, in sharp focus, showing any special markings it may have! Now have a look at all your mobile phone pictures of your dog.
Not good enough.
Take a picture that fits all of the requirements mentioned with a good camera and then save it. If you need to use it, you are going to be very, very glad that you made sure your dog’s pic is the best possible.
Related Questions
Huskies can disappear because they have been stolen and not because they have run away. They are friendly and not aggressive, so it is not hard to steal them. Anybody can steal a dog for any reason, but usually, they do so in order to sell the dog. Watch the internet, local pet shops, and crazy dog lovers in the neighborhood for ads that may fit your dog’s profile. Alert all the vets in the town or city where you live to be on the lookout.
