Huskies can run approximately 10-20 miles in a single session. This compares to only 2-5 miles by most average breeds. With training they can run as far as 40 miles per session and top sled Huskiesrun up to 137 miles per day.
Would you believe that a Husky can run up to 100 miles in a single day? How is this possible and what about their genetic makeup allows them to run for such long distances compared to other breeds?
In this article, we’ll help you understand why Huskies run so far and how they’re able to do so.
How Long Can a Husky Run?
Huskies are generally deemed as the “goofballs” of the canine world but they’re a lot more than that. They have incredible levels of energy that allow them to run for miles upon miles upon miles.
There are reasons for this though.
These dogs were bred to pull sleds for centuries and this required them to have an insane amount of energy so they could pull loaded sleds across countries without getting tired.
Every dog breed has its intention and purpose in life. Some dogs like Greyhounds on the other hand do not have endurance running built into them because they were built for top speed only. This breed may only be able to maintain their top speed for a mile before they start to fizzle out.
Huskies on the other hand do not have as high of a top speed but what they lack in speed they make up for in extreme endurance.
It’s also important to remember that you can’t simply pull a Husky from a dog shelter and expect them to do these types of things. While their ancestors all had the fighting spirit, Huskies that do not typically run these types of marathon miles can’t do it without proper training and conditioning.
How Can Huskies Run So Far?
While we understand that they were bred this way, what about their genetics allows them to run for such a long time?
A study was performed by Scientific American that tested dogs leg muscles after running 100 miles. The study states that when dogs eat, their body takes carbohydrates and turns that into glucose which provides energy.
In the case of Huskies, their metabolism is a bit different and pulls energy from everything including fat from their bloodstream. So, for Huskies to run these types of marathons, they need to be fed a diet that is rich in fat.
Best Tips for Husky Running
While it might seem like a no-brainer, not all dog owners realize that every Husky isn’t cut out for mile long marathons. Here are some tips to prevent your dog from getting hurt during training:
Heat Acclimation – Huskies are extremely prone to overheating because of their dense coat and it can take a long time for them to adjust to a warmer climate. Be patient and never push your Husky too far.
Prevent Injury – All dogs are prone to hip dysplasia but this is especially true for Huskies. Running them long distances too frequently can further aggravate the issue. Make sure your Husky is ready before running them in a marathon and keep them at a healthy weight throughout their life.
Final Thoughts
Huskies are built for running and the high energy is merely a byproduct of that. Enjoy your pup, treat them right, and never push them past their limits. Even the most in shape and healthy Huskies have limits!
