With their striking eyes and snow-born stamina, Siberian Huskies turn heads. But behind that majestic exterior is a clever, independent thinker who loves to test boundaries just as much as they love to run. Originally bred to work, Huskies thrive on challenge and purpose — which means training isn’t just helpful, it’s essential. 

In this guide, we break down how to work with your Husky’s unique temperament. From decoding their quirks to using positive reinforcement techniques that actually stick, you’ll find practical tips to help your Husky thrive. 

Read more: Siberian Husky breed insights: care, personality & expert tips 

Siberian Husky temperament and trainability 

Siberian Huskies are known for their outgoing, mischievous, and independent temperament. They’re incredibly smart — but not necessarily eager to please. Unlike breeds that thrive on commands, Huskies tend to think for themselves, often assessing whether an action is truly worth their time. 

Their strong prey drive and instinct to run can make recall training particularly challenging. That said, Huskies are also loyal, pack-oriented dogs that respond well to a consistent, positive training environment. 

Don’t be discouraged by their stubborn streak. With firm boundaries, clear communication, and high-value rewards, your Husky can become a well-mannered and cooperative companion. 

Health considerations that can affect training 

Siberian Huskies are generally a healthy and robust breed, but a few common issues can impact their ability or motivation to train: 

Joint conditions

Joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia can be common in Huskies. In these conditions, the ball and socket of the joints haven't developed properly. Instead of moving smoothly, they grind and rub, leading to inflammation, pain, and reduced mobility. Over time, this can result in arthritis or more severe damage.  

Joint discomfort often shows subtly at first, like slower movement or hesitation during training — before becoming a more serious barrier to exercise and focus. 

Try this:  
Although you can’t change your dog’s genes, you can support joint health with ingredients containing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties like turmeric, ginger, and omega-3s from fish oil —  found in Lyka meals. 

Lyka’s Joint Supplement also contains active ingredients like Green-lipped mussels and curcumin extract to promote joint health.  

Read more: Hip dysplasia: how can your dog’s diet help?

Obesity

Excess weight or obesity can put stress on joints, decrease motivation to exercise and impact your dog’s ability to focus during training. Being overweight can also affect mood, energy levels and overall health. 

Try this: 
Feeding a real food diet that’s high in protein and full of fresh low-glycaemic index ingredients can help your Siberian Huskies stay lean and energised. Lyka meals are custom-portioned for your dog’s ideal weight, made with real food that supports a healthy metabolism and sustained energy. 

Read more: Lyka's vet guide to healthy dog weight (with charts and videos)

If your Husky seems disinterested or unusually distracted, it’s wise to check with your vet to rule out any underlying issues. 

How real food fuels your Husky’s focus 

Just like us, dogs learn best when they’re feeling healthy, balanced and energised. Diet plays a big role in your pup’s ability to focus, stay calm, and retain information. 

Siberian Huskies benefit from: 

• Steady energy sources like butternut squash and purple sweet potato, which have a low glycaemic load and help release energy slowly. 

• Essential fatty acids like DHA and EPA (omega-3s from fish, mussels, or fish oil), which support brain health and development, memory, and learning 

• Fresh, bioactive nutrients from ingredients like blueberries and shiitake mushrooms, to support immunity, skin health, and overall wellbeing 

   

“A fresh food diet packed with brain-boosting nutrients supports your dog’s ability to learn and adapt. Omega-3s, especially DHA, are critical for memory and cognitive function.”  

– Dr Alex England, Lyka Veterinarian, BVetMed MANZCVS (Small Animal Veterinary Practice)   

Learn more about Dr Alexander England and his veterinary experience. 
 

All Lyka meals are formulated by Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionists to provide complete and balanced nutrition for learning, growth, and everyday health.  

Read more: What do Siberian Huskies eat? Breed-specific nutrition tips  
Read more: Fuelling your dog’s focus: how nutrition impacts your dog’s training 

Exercise first for improved focus 

Exercising your Husky before a training session is essential. With high stamina and energy levels, a Husky that hasn’t had a chance to burn off steam will find it nearly impossible to sit still and concentrate. 

Options include: 

• Long walks or jogs 

• Off-lead playtime in secure areas 

• Tug or agility games to engage both body and mind 

Expend some of their energy first, and your training sessions should be more productive. 

Training tips for Siberian Huskies 

Training a Husky can be a test of patience and creativity — but it’s also incredibly rewarding when you see progress. 

Keep sessions short, sweet, and full of positive vibes. Here’s what works best: 

Positive reinforcement 

This is the gold standard for training. Marking good behaviour with rewards like praise, affection, treats, or continued interaction, teaches your pup how to behave and supports a strong and positive relationship. 

Double up on rewards to mark excellent responses from your Husky, like praise and a pat, or praise and a treat. 

Find their favourite motivator 

Discovering your pup’s hierarchy of high-value rewards is a great way to keep your Siberian Husky motivated. Is it a nibble of roast chicken, their favourite squeaky toy, or playtime with you? 

Train at the right time 

Sometimes dogs don’t have the energy or desire to learn, especially if they’re too tired, too full, or hot and bothered. 

Mental enrichment through training can be tiring for dogs, so find the right time to train and stop if you notice your dog starting to lose focus or fatigue. 

Stay consistent 

Consistency is key to training. Not just in setting your expectations, but in using the same verbal and non-verbal cues. 

Be playful and engaging 

Dogs are sensitive souls that can pick up on your mood. Keep your sessions fun, and your positive energy will be contagious. 

Watch their body language 

If your pup starts to show signs of stress or tiredness, give them a break. If they’ve reached saturation point, it can be counterproductive to persevere. You can always come back to the training at another point. 

Training your Husky puppy 

Husky puppies are spirited, smart, and endlessly curious — but don’t expect them to pick up commands right away. Early training focuses on: 

• A consistent toilet routine 

• Positive crate training 

• Socialisation with people, animals, and environments 

Huskies don’t respond well to harsh corrections, so focus on gentle, reward-based methods to build their trust and confidence. 

Read more: Force-free puppy training: what the experts want you to know

Training your adult Husky 

Just because your Husky’s out of puppyhood doesn’t mean the training stops. In fact, ongoing mental stimulation is essential to keep their mind sharp and behaviour balanced. 

This might look like: 

• Reinforcing polite greetings 

• Learning new tricks 

• Adapting to life changes 

• Training for mobility support 

Dogs have neuroplasticity, meaning their brains adapt and change making them lifelong learners. Keep sessions engaging, and celebrate small wins along the way. 

When to call in a trainer or behaviourist 

Not sure if your Husky’s quirks are just stubbornness — or something deeper? 

A trainer is your go-to for obedience, manners, and routine behaviours. A qualified behaviourist, on the other hand, is best for issues like: 

• Reactivity 

• Anxiety or phobias 

• Aggression 

• Resource guarding 

They work closely with your vet to address underlying causes and create a tailored plan. The earlier you seek support, the easier it is to create lasting change. 

“If training your dog is very challenging, it may be worth considering a trainer or a behaviourist. A trainer can help you identify what may be triggering their behaviour and show you how to help your dog cope in those situations. The solution may be as simple as reframing what we expect from our dogs and our behaviours around them.”  

— Laura V, qualified dog behaviourist 

New to Lyka? Let’s rethink dog food together 

Training your Husky is a journey — one that requires consistency, creativity, and compassion. Whether you’re navigating house training with a stubborn puppy or teaching your senior dog new routines, every small win is a step toward a calmer, more connected life together. 

And remember, a well-fed brain is a trainable brain. Supporting your Husky’s learning with fresh, real food meals helps unlock their full potential. 

Lyka nourishes hundreds of Huskies across Australia – from energetic pups to seniors in their golden years – they’re all thriving on Lyka.