Caring for your Huskamute

Huskamutes are used abroad for the following activities. Both the Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky are working dogs

Maintenance

As a medium coated breed, the Huskamute requires grooming once a week. Females will moult twice a year (1 seasonal and 1 hormonal moult) and males once a year. During moulting season, the dog should be groomed once daily.

De-sexed dogs will need less grooming due to reduced hormonal influences. Huskamute will adjust to most climates and should not be clipped. Huskamutes will eat less than other large type breeds. This is due to the slow metabolism of the dog. This is a genetic adaptation to working in harsh conditions with minimal food supplies, as known in both primary breeds.

Exercise

Sled racing: A team of dogs is driven by a driver, whilst pulling a sled over groomed snow trails. The contestants race against the clock to record the fastest time. Dry sled racing utilizes three wheeled gigs, during the warmer months, except summer.

Weight pulling: A strength competition. A Huskamute is harnessed to an empty trolley, which is then pulled by the dog over 4-5 meter's. Weights are gradually added until the dog is unable to move the trolley. These competitions are strictly controlled, and no dog is forced to compete beyond its capabilities.

Backpacking: Huskamutes provide companionship and additional carrying capacity for bush and trail walkers. A backpack is harnessed to the dog, and used to store additional supplies and equipment.

This is important, as Huskamutes get bored very easily. Please keep this in mind if you are working long hours. If you can't give your Huskamute these requirements, then maybe they are not the breed for you.