Walking with your Husky
Huskies and sled dogs often instinctively pull when out and about. Although patient positive training methods can persuade them to subdue the instinct somewhat, the sight of a rabbit, cat, squirrel, seagull, other dogs or anything else that interests them will probably have them straining at the leash and they can be very strong, This means that you need a good strong leash that optimizes control.
Basic 'police training' type leashes are a good idea as they have clips ideal for fixing to walking belts. Police training leads can be shortened easily in order to give more control and keep your dog close by.
Ladder leashes also serve the same purpose as police training leashess. Both kinds are available in various widths and colors.
A good tip if walking more than one husky is to have a different color leash for each dog so that they can be identified easily if they get tangled up.
It is a good idea to try and find a leash with a little bit of 'give' in it to absorb shock and try and minimize stress on the dog's neck when walking in a collar. So called 'Bungee-leashes' are good for this. Dogs inclined to pull on the leash and bounce around as sled dogs do, benefit from the shock absorbing design of these leashes - the need for this recognized in tug lines used in racing that all have bungee attachments to protect the dog's neck and spine.
Although we know many owners use them successfully, we would not personally recommend using flexi-leashes for walking sled dogs.
If you want to give your husky a longer reign, there are some
extremely long leashes available. Equestrian ropes with brass clips are also available in much longer lengths
Longer 'lunge leashes'are great for trips to the beach, as you can stay dry and still let your dog have a swim.
Collars
Rogz For Dogz collars are popular among husky and sled dogs owners. They have large metal clip rings that are easy to grab hold of if your dog is goofing around. We buy the 'Beach Bum' collars for our dogs - we find that medium collars suit our adult Siberians;
our Malamute owning friends usually find they need large sized collars for their adult mallies.
They come in a load of different colours and designs and we've found both the rogz collars and leads to be pretty durable.
The Spiffy range of collars are strong and well made. They come in a wide range of designs and also have large metal clip rings - we like their leashes and other accessories too.
Walking Belts
As many owners come to find, it is much easier to walk a husky or sled dog with the lead attached to a belt around your waist than one that you hold in your hand. Huskies are not 'off lead' dogs. As a husky owner you will spend a lot of time walking with your dog to give it the exercise it requires.
Given that huskies tend to pull on the lead, a walking belt can significantly increase your comfort while out and about. Walking belts take the strain off your arms and focus it on your hips. This allows for better balance and resistance against sudden tugs on the lead when your husky gets excited over something up ahead (We're not going to pretend that any of our own huskies are perfectly trained never to pull on the lead!). You can still use your hands for extra control on the leash, and draw the dog closer to you at roadsides etc. Walking belts mean that, where the paths are suitable, you can rely on the belt to hold the dog and keep your hands and arms free.
Make sure that the belt you buy is strong enough to hold your husky at its most excitable - they can pull very hard when they see a squirrel up ahead!
Backpacks and Other Accessories
Back-packs with built-in 'walking belts' are available. These are handy for longer walks and hikes when you need to carry supplies with you.
Collapsible food and water bowls are always handy to have, and fold down small enough to stash in a small bag and carry with you on a walk.