How to groom a Siberian Husky

Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky originated from Eastern Serbia where they were bred as sleigh dogs. They have a wolf-like appearance, with a keen, mischievous but always friendly expression. The coat itself is a dense, double coat – with the undercoat being thicker and softer than the outer coat. Huskies require frequent grooming – at least twice a week – to keep on top of their shedding coat. When they ‘blow’ their coats in Spring and Autumn their coat will need extra attention.

Professional groomers have the equipment to ensure that the coat is thoroughly dried after bathing, which is very important to reduce chances of skin infection. Due to the dense double coat, it can be very difficult to dry the coat without a blaster and finishing dryer

Coat Type

Double Coated / Dense

Grooming Requirement

Bathe & Brush Out

Grooming Notes

As a double coated breed, the Siberian Husky tends to shed more heavily in the Spring and Autumn
Ensure coat is thoroughly dry after bathing, to prevent the growth of bacteria and development of sores/infection

It is not recommended to clip the coat of a double coated breed, especially in warmer climates. It is much better to remove all undercoat by frequently brushing the coat as this allows cool air to reach the skin whilst the sun's rays are reflected. Clipping the coat will cause cool air to flow above the hair and the sun's rays will penetrate the remaining hair and there will be a higher risk of the dog overheating and also being sunburned.

Grooming Guide

A blaster can be particularly useful at all stages of grooming for this breed. Use the blaster prior to bathing to help lift skin dander, debris and loose coat. Use a blaster after bathing to help remove excess moisture from the coat
Use a slicker, rubber curry, undercoat rake and dematting tools to remove any loose hair
Neck, chest, and rump can get really packed with coat, pay close attention to these areas, but avoid repetitive/heavy handed brushing to prevent brush burn
If necessary, edge ears with detailing/safety scissors, with the tips of the scissors pointing towards the tips of the ears
Thoroughly comb/brush the entire dog, there should be little/no loose hair being removed in a medium/firm slicker when finished. You should also be able to sink a wide-toothed comb into the coat, down to the skin and pull it free with no tangles
Use a #15 – #40 blade or safety scissors to trim paw pads if necessary
Back brush the hair between toes and trim with thinning scissors to prevent discomfort and matting
Trim hocks and pastern with thinning scissors or using a #4F (in reverse) depending on the length and size of the dog
Use a soft bristle brush regularly to remove loose hair and distribute the natural coat oils around the coat
Apply a fine mist of coat polish to bring up the natural shine of the coat

Grooming Tool Recommendations

Other Health Recommendations

Clipper Blade Recommendations

Shampoo Recommendations

For everyday use mild/hypoallergenic shampoos are recommended. You can also use coat specific shampoos depending on the coat requirement, such as shedding treatment, deep clean, speed dry or itchy skin relief.

Conditioner Recommendations

Conditioner is essential for this coat type as it adds ‘slip’ to the hair, helping to release loose undercoat with a blaster/brush. There are some shed treatment conditioners which would be perfect for this coat type.