How Do Dogs Survive in Polar Regions?

Dogs such as Siberian huskies and Alaskan malamutes that live in polar regions have evolved certain adaptations necessary for survival. The consistently harsh polar climate puts a lot of stress and demand on the body of a non-native dog who hasn't developed modifications such as special fur coats, strict diets and exercise requirements.

  1. Adaptations

    • One of the most important adaptations of polar dogs is their fur coats. Polar dogs often have double coats with an outer coat and under coat. Outer coats are typically coarse and water-resistant, while under coats are dense, oily and soft; serving as insulation. Huskies also have hair in their ears, which acts like a set of ear muffs to keep them warm. Another important adaptation is the shape of their eyes, which are almond-shaped to protect them from wind and cold when they squint.

    Diet

    • According to All About Huskies, arctic dogs like Siberian huskies only require 60 percent of the normal intake of huskies living in warmer climates. This is because his body is able to completely break down and use food, energy and nutrients. Food is not always available, making this adaptation vital to their survival. Siberian huskies and similar dogs like the Alaskan malamute consume foods high in vitamins and minerals; such as oily fish like salmon, birds, small mammals and whale or seal meat if available.

    Physical Activity

    • Polar dogs require lots of exercise to fuel their metabolism and to help stay warm. Since Siberian huskies and Alaskan malamutes are often used as sled and hunting dogs, they are accustomed to high activity levels and actually prefer to keep busy to prevent boredom and aggression. These working dogs are trained to haul people and supplies through deep snow for miles in frigid temperatures; an activity that produces heat that becomes trapped between their bodies and thick fur coats.

    Shelter

    • Like any other breed of dog, polar dogs require sufficient shelter in order to survive. Dogs that are part of human families in these cold regions often have their own dog house, or they will stay inside with humans. For polar dogs that don't have the luxury of a man-made shelter, they will dig burrows if there is no permafrost or huddle together to keep warm during times of inactivity. If the ground is too hard to dig into because of permafrost, polar dogs may stay in caves or rock outcrops like wild Arctic wolves do.