A little husky?

PUPPY

Think of a young canine that might still be learning to bark—this one’s often full of playful energy and tiny paws.

This clue plays on the double meaning of "husky." One sense refers to the Siberian husky dog breed, so a "little husky" would logically be a young one—a puppy. The other meaning, "husky" as in a hoarse or rough voice, is a red herring here, steering you toward the canine interpretation instead.