Huskies As Animal "Houdinis”
While Huskies’ playful and curious nature makes them lovable family companions, that same nature “encourages” them to be masters of escape. Whether they’re slipping stealthily through narrow gaps, digging adroitly under fences or lithely climbing over barriers, Huskies are known as animal "Houdinis" – named for the world-famous escape artist Harry Houdini.
Why, then, do they try to escape and how can you keep your own cherished canine companion from pulling a Houdini?
High energy levels: Because Huskies are, by nature, a working breed, designed for stamina and endurance, they require a significant amount of daily exercise to keep them satisfied. Without it, they may attempt to escape in an effort to expend the rest of their excess energy.
Curiosity: Innately and eminently curious, Huskies love and thrive on exploring any and all new environments. Is it any wonder then that this adventurous spirit and need for stimulation often leads them to wander off in search of new worlds to “conquer?”
Hunting instincts: Given the strength of their natural prey drive, Huskies are virtually programmed to chase after small animals such as squirrels, rabbits, lizards and birds. If they’re outdoors – unsupervised -- and they catch sight of something interesting flitting by, they may, quite naturally, bolt.
Social behavior: Being pack animals, Huskies, quite simply, crave companionship. Should they feel ignored, isolated or lonely, they may try to escape in an effort to find the attention they seek by interacting with other dogs or other people.
Boredom: Without sufficient and satisfying mental and physical stimulation, Huskies can quickly grow bored, leading to such destructive behaviors as escaping and digging.
Anxiety and/or fear: Excessively loud and unexpected noises, such as thunder and fireworks, can be terrifying for some Huskies and lead them to frantically affect an escape.
When Huskies escape, they face various dangers, among them:
Injuries: Digging under barriers and jumping over fences can result in physical injuries – from minor to severe.
Traffic accidents: By wandering the streets, they can all too easily be hit by passing cars.
Encounters with other animals: By running loose, they risk being confronted by and engaging in conflicts with other animals, both domesticated and wild.Losing their way: Huskies may travel so far afield that they may struggle, sometimes unsuccessfully, to find their way back home again.
Legal trouble: Since so many areas now have leash laws, fleeing Huskies can cause their owners to be fined or to face other legal problems.
To keep Huskies safe at home:
Install a fence around your property that’s at least 6 feet tall to prevent them from jumping it.
Bury the base of the fence at least 12 inches underground or add chicken wire to prevent any digging.
Add inward-facing slanted extensions to make all climbing harder.
Use strong locks and latches to prevent any accidental openings or create a double-gate system for added security.
Provide your Huskies with satisfying stimulation:
Daily exercise: Huskies need at least 60–90 minutes of intense physical activity a day, including walks, runs, hikes and playtime.
Mental games: Use puzzle toys, treat-dispensing balls and obedience training to engage their inquisitive minds.
Interactive play: Engaging in such games as fetch and tug-o-war keep them both focused and entertained.
Agility training: If feasible, set up an obstacle course to truly challenge their physical and mental abilities.
Common sense suggestions:
Never leave your Huskies alone in the yard for long periods since regular supervision helps deter any attempt they may make to escape.
Rotate both their toys and their activities to keep them eagerly engaged and hold their interest.
Equip them with a GPS tracker collar for “real-time” location tracking purposes.
Ensure that they wear ID tags with updated contact information in case they do escape.
Teach them specific recall commands like “come,” “stay” and “leave it” to improve your control over their behavior.
Always use positive reinforcement and high-value treats during your training sessions.
Practice “recall drills” on a regular basis to reinforce their obedience.
Escape-proof the inside of your home:
Use baby gates or pet barriers to block all doorways and staircases.
Secure your windows and doors by installing locks to prevent any accidental openings.
Provide them with a comfortable crate to create a “safe space” whenever they’re left on their own.