Beautiful Siberian Husky Colors, Patterns and Markings

Huskies come in many colors and patterns. It is possible to selectively breed a litter of Husky puppies in the hope they will be born a certain color. Selective breeding takes a lot of experience and uses DNA testing. We have put together a list of the most striking Husky coat colors and patterns: 

Agouti

Agouti is an easily recognizable color of Huskies, as it most resembles their wolf ancestry. An agouti has a darker undercoat, usually black, brown, or grey, and a top coat that is lighter in color compared to the undercoat. This creates a stippling effect. There can be variations in the amount of dark and light hairs on the body for the agouti color. Points on an Agouti are black, and any white spots are called cream. 

Sable

The sable-colored husky has a deep red undercoat and the top coat contains hairs that vary in color intensity as you move up the hair tip, starting with more copper-colored at the root and black near the tip. This creates a warm glow of whites, copper, liver, black, and brown through the coat. 

Black and Tan

The black tan coat color has a mix of black and tan, and both colors can be of varying intensity. The black can range from coal black to a light silver color. This coat color is often associated with lines or stripes around the head, which enhances your Husky’s natural beauty. 

Red and White

This striking variation can have any amount of red and white on the body. The only two hair colors are red and white, no brown, grey, or black are seen. The red color varies from a deep liver color to a bright auburn or copper color. White stripes along the face, a white belly, and white legs are common in the red-white Husky. 

Grooming needs

Huskies have a thick, double coat to insulate themselves against the cold and rain. If you live in a warm region, they may struggle with the climate. Huskys can suffer heat stroke if exposed to too much sunshine or heat at any one time.  

Huskies need brushing two to three times a week to remove dead hair and promote good circulation. If they enjoy mud or dirt they may need bathing as much as once a week.

Costs of Husky ownership

Usually, the price for a well-bred Husky starts at around $800-1200. If this is not in your budget, check out your local animal shelter. The cost of adopting an adult is usually much lower than purchasing a puppy, and they come fully vaccinated and desexed. You may have to put in a little extra hard work to correct any behavioral issues but this can be achieved with the help of a good trainer. 

Unique personality traits

Before bringing a Husky home, do your research. Talk to people who own this breed so you can have a first-hand understanding of their needs. 

Huskies have a reputation for being fussy eaters. As they are such high-energy dogs, they need a prime source of nutrition to keep them fueled each day, or they can suffer weight loss and other conditions. 

The husky can develop separation anxiety and be a destructive dog if left alone for long periods or not exercised enough. Don’t choose this breed if you spend lots of time away from the home. A dog walker or doggy daycare can solve this problem if you are away on an odd occasion.  The husky is not suited to apartment living or if you have no garden to let your dog run around in. Garden fences must be at least one meter high, as huskies can jump easily over small fences and escape. 

Huskies are a ball of energy and need a lot of exercise. They need at least one hour per day and should be allowed to be playful at home with other dogs or people. Huskies fit in well with multi-dog households. They also get along well with children and older adults.