For those seeking the companionship of man’s best friend, here’s some good news. Located in the quiet Zenith Corporate Park in Kelana Jaya is an establishment where any world-weary Malaysian can walk in to destress by giving head scratches and tummy rubs.
As soon as you enter the premises, nine pairs of curious canine eyes will greet you curiously through a window. It is enough to melt the stoniest of hearts.
Huskiss is Malaysia’s very first husky cafe, though folks expecting a full-fledged eatery should look elsewhere as this cafe offers little more than drinks and light refreshments.
Don’t be turned off by this, though, as the unforgettable experience Huskiss provides certainly makes up for the lack of food.
As the name suggests, Huskiss is home to a pack of seven friendly and adorable huskies, as well as two malamutes and one Samoyed.
They are housed in a large air-conditioned room at the back of the cafe, with polished concrete floors and beanbags for guests to sit on as they’re surrounded by the inquisitive dogs.
Being working animals that were bred to pull sleighs and other duties, huskies are unsurprisingly energetic, capable of bouncing off the walls if left idle for too long.
These dogs can grow to intimidatingly massive sizes – the largest of the pack here weighs a hefty 50kg, and their thick coat of fur makes them look even larger than they already are.
But despite their size, these creatures are gentle giants, and even young children can safely play with them.
Meet the barkers
While they may look similar, these nine dogs have their own personalities and quirks.
At the head of the pack is four-year-old Hailey, the alpha whose authority is undisputed by the other dogs.
Then you have Flash, Hailey’s brother, who is just happy to stay out of his sibling’s way while zooming about the room.
Serving alongside Hailey as her assistant is Dash, one of the two caring malamutes. The other is Orion, he who weighs 50kg but would not hurt a fly.
In terms of seniority, seven-year-old Steffi reigns supreme. Previously a family dog, she still has a fondness for children and the elderly.
If you’re looking for a cuddler, Jean would be up for the task as she likes being the centre of attention while demonstrating a mischievous streak.
Twins are often double trouble and that may be the case with Storm and Queen, though their personalities take different routes.
Despite her name, Storm is a timid lass who has a sweet side, and if she takes a liking to you, she is unlikely to stop following you around.
Queen, on the other hand, dislikes the spotlight and will try to sneak away whenever no one’s looking.
Finally, there’s the newcomer, Shiro, a one-year-old Samoyed with a sad tale. Rescued by a shelter, he suffered from tick fever, diarrhoea and blood diseases as well as epilepsy.
Thankfully, through good care and lots of love, Shiro is now healthy and happy to receive just as much attention as his packmates.
The dogs are well-trained, and while they would be happy to play with you, they are just as content to lay down quietly and accept a belly rub or two.
Do note that for the wellbeing of the dogs, guests can only spend time with them if they have booked a slot in advance. After all, the pooches still need rest between entertaining and socialising.
They are cleaned and brushed down between play sessions, and it’s clear they’re well taken care of from the lack of “doggy smell”.
With nine high-maintenance dogs running around, their human certainly has a lot to deal with. But Chan Jia Wei, 25, has no regrets about them being part of his family.
“I grew up with dogs,” he tells FMT, “smaller ones like schnauzers and poodles. I have always wanted to open a cafe, and with my dogs, the idea of a husky cafe was born.”
As any restaurateur can tell you, running a cafe can be difficult. For Chan, he has to manage the business while ensuring the needs of the nine canines are met.
From long bathing times to ravaged furniture, huskies as a breed can be overwhelming. But despite the challenges, Chan is undeterred and does his best to keep his dogs happy and healthy, from giving them a good diet to making sure they get the exercise they need.
“Huskies are very stubborn, outgoing and mischievous,” he says. “They’re not bad dogs, just naughty.”
The cafe, he adds, is his way of educating Malaysians on what it’s like to have a husky and to share the companionship they provide with others.
“There’s a lot of work that goes into taking care of them,” Chan adds, “but I’m more than happy to share their love with our customers.”
To make an appointment to meet these beautiful dogs, check out Huskiss on Facebook, or contact 03-78873109 or 013-2883109.
Huskiss
80-G, Block G,
Zenith Corporate Park,
Jalan SS7/26, Kelana Jaya,
Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Business hours: 11am-4.30pm, 7-8pm (closed on Tuesdays)