The Husky Malamute Mix is a unique and loving companion, but it's essential to understand its lifespan and care needs to ensure a happy and healthy life together.
On average, a Husky Malamute Mix can live for 10-14 years, depending on various factors such as diet, exercise, and health conditions.
To give your Husky Malamute Mix the best possible life, it's crucial to provide regular exercise, as they require at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily to stay happy and healthy.
A balanced diet is also vital, with a mix of high-quality dog food and occasional treats to keep your furry friend satisfied.
Parent Breeds
The Alusky's parent breeds are a big part of who he is. The Siberian Husky and the Alaskan Malamute are both high-energy breeds that originated in cold climates.
Siberian Huskies are known for their endurance and love of running, which means they need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Alaskan Malamutes, on the other hand, are powerful and strong, with a strong prey drive and a tendency to be independent.
Both of these breeds are built for cold weather and can thrive in temperatures as low as -50°F.
Lifespan and Health
The lifespan of a Husky Malamute mix is a topic of interest for many dog owners. On average, they can live between 10 to 14 years, with some enjoying a life expectancy of up to 15 years.
Their large size is a contributing factor to their relatively long lifespan, but they can still inherit health concerns from their parents. Hip dysplasia, a condition caused by the abnormal formation of the hip joint, is a common issue in this breed.
Regular veterinarian checkups and vaccinations are crucial in maintaining their health. A disease caught early is often curable, so make sure to schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian.
Here are some common health concerns to watch out for in a Husky Malamute mix:
- Ear infections and wax buildup
- Weight gain and hip dysplasia
- Eye and skin infections
- Cancer
- Hip dysplasia, chondrodysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, polyneuropathy, Von Willebrand’s Disease, and eye conditions like Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise can significantly impact their lifespan. A heartworm preventive like Heartgard is also essential in preventing heartworms, which can be fatal to dogs.
Siberian Husky Lifespan
Siberian Huskies are known to live a relatively long life, typically between 12-15 years. They can even reach the ripe old age of 16.
Their lifespan is impressive compared to other breeds of similar size. Golden Retrievers, for example, live about 10-12 years.
Siberian Huskies' lifespan is also longer than their cousin, the Alaskan Malamute, who lives between 10-12 years.
Their average lifespan is around 12-15 years, making them a long-lasting companion for many families.
Huskies Lifespan
Siberian Huskies are a medium-size breed that typically lives 10-13 years, but some can live up to 16 years.
Regular veterinarian checkups and vaccinations are crucial in helping your Husky live a longer life. A disease caught early is often curable, so make sure to take your Husky to their regular checkups.
Parasite control is also essential, as heartworms can kill your dog. A heartworm preventive like Heartgard is an absolute must.
Spaying your female Husky is especially important, as several studies show that spayed females live longer than unspayed females.
Siberian Huskies have enormous appetites because they are bred for pulling heavy sleds for miles and miles. Keeping them slim with an active life can help them live 2-3 years longer than overweight dogs.
Here's a breakdown of the average lifespan of Huskies and their mixes:
Cancer is the biggest killer of senior Huskies, so regular vet checkups and a nutrient-balanced diet can help prevent this.
Age and Development
Huskies grow the fastest between 0-6 months old, then slow down a bit until they reach a year old.
At around 2 years old, Husky Malamute mixes will have reached their adult height, but some males may continue to fill out their frame until they're 3 years old.
Their growth rate slows down significantly after 6 months, allowing them to conserve energy for other developmental milestones.
Characteristics and Temperament
The Husky Malamute Mix is a unique and lovable breed, with a mix of characteristics from its parent breeds. They are intelligent and active, requiring at least 30-60 minutes of exercise per day.
Their adaptability is also worth noting, as they thrive in cold temperatures but can do okay in high temperatures as well. However, they do shed all year round, so be prepared for some extra grooming.
In terms of their temperament, they are generally friendly and loving, but can also be stubborn at times. They are great with children and other dogs, but may require some training to get along with small animals. They are also not great watchdogs, as they are too friendly and laid-back.
Siberian Characteristic Chart
Siberian Huskies are incredibly adaptable, but they do need lots of space to roam around. They can handle high temperatures, but they're absolutely fantastic in cold weather.
Exercise is a must for these dogs, with a minimum of 30-60 minutes required daily. This can be a challenge for some owners, but trust me, it's worth it.
Siberian Huskies are great with children and get along well with other dogs, making them a fantastic addition to many families.
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However, they do require training when it comes to interacting with small animals. This means you'll need to teach them to be gentle and respectful around pets like cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs.
Grooming is a must for these dogs, as they shed all year round. This can be a bit of a pain, but regular brushing can help reduce the amount of loose hair.
In terms of health, Siberian Huskies are generally fair to extremely healthy, with a long lifespan of 12-15 years.
Here's a quick rundown of the average height and weight for Siberian Huskies:
Training a Siberian Husky can be a bit of a challenge, as they're considered difficult to train. But with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can teach them to behave and obey commands.
Alusky Temperament & Intelligence
The Alusky is a very intelligent and active pet, making them a great companion for families who enjoy outdoor activities.
They are loyal to their owners and can be affectionate yet calm, which makes them a loving and friendly breed.
Their intelligence also leaves them to be active in their mind as well as in body, so they need plenty of mental stimulation through puzzles, training courses, and even jobs such as herding.
The Alusky has a great memory, which is beneficial for training and learning new things.
However, they are not great at being watchdogs, as their friendly and laid-back nature allows them to be curious and open to new faces.
They are more likely to beg for a treat from a newcomer than sound the alarm, so if you're looking for a guard dog, the Alusky might not be the best choice.
The Alusky can have a stubborn side, which means they can be resistant to training at times.
They also don't do well with extended periods of alone time, and it can lead to destructive behavior, so they require regular attention and interaction.
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The Powerful
They were originally bred for strength and power to haul heavy sleds across the ice.
Their powerful shoulders and deep chest make them look as strong as they are.
They rank 58th in American Kennel Club’s (AKC) breed popularity and are part of the Working Group.
This large breed weighs 75 to 85 pounds (34 to 39 kg) and stands about 23 to 25 inches (58 to 63.5 cm) in height.
They shouldn’t be placed in a crowded place like an apartment due to their medium- to giant-sized nature.
Care and Nutrition
To keep your husky malamute mix happy and healthy, it's essential to provide the right nutrition. Feed a high-quality kibble with a high protein and calorie content, as they need to sustain their energetic lifestyle.
They'll need around 3 to 3 ½ cups of food daily, depending on their energy levels. A kibble specifically designed for large dogs will help control their rapid bone growth.
Be sure to split their meals into two, morning and night, and aim for four and a half cups of food daily. This will help them maintain a healthy weight and prevent joint and hip pain later in life.
A balanced diet should contain 20% to 30% protein, 10% to 20% fat, and up to 10% fiber. This will ensure they have the necessary nutrients to stay active and healthy.
Nutrition
Your Alusky's diet is crucial for their overall health and energy levels. Feed them a high-quality kibble with a high protein and calorie content.
Aim to provide 3 to 5 cups of food daily, divided into two meals. This will help control their rapid bone growth and keep them sustained throughout the day.
Choose a kibble specifically designed for large dogs to ensure they get the necessary nutrients. You can also match the nutrition profile of a Siberian Husky, as they have similar food needs.
Active dogs like the Alusky require a good amount of lean protein and healthy fat in their diet. This will help keep their energy level strong and support their overall health.
Aim for a diet with 20% to 30% protein, 10% to 20% fat, and up to 10% fiber. This will ensure they get all the necessary nutrients to remain active and healthy.
Remember to keep treats and snacks healthy, with protein and other benefits. Avoid giving table scraps, as they can lead to weight gain and joint pain in later years.
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Grooming
The Alusky's grooming needs are relatively straightforward, but important to get right. He should be bathed once every 6 to 8 weeks to avoid damaging his natural coat oils.
His super thick and fluffy coat needs brushing 2 to 3 times a week to keep it dirt and tangle-free. This is crucial to prevent matting and keep his coat looking its best.
His large ears will need cleaning once a week to avoid bacteria buildup. This will help keep him healthy and prevent any potential ear problems.
Using an anti-shed shampoo can help reduce shedding and make grooming easier. Regular deshedding will also help keep his coat under control.
Exercise
Exercise is a crucial part of an Alusky's life, and they need at least 90 minutes of it every day to stay healthy and stimulated. They require a mix of activities like jogging, training sessions, swimming, and interactive games.
These energetic dogs can't be limited to a simple walk around the block, so you'll need to get creative with their exercise routine. They love activities like agility courses and fetch.
A Husky Malamute mix needs a lot of space to roam and play, so your home or apartment should be slightly larger than average. They also need access to their own outdoor space where they can run around freely.
Reinforced fences are a must, as both parent breeds are known to dig their way out of enclosures and jump 6-foot fences when bored. This is especially true if you have a yard with a fence.
With proper exercise and mental stimulation, your Alusky will be a happy and well-behaved companion. If they don't get enough attention and activity, they may turn to destructive behaviors like chewing and digging.
Alusky Dog Breed
The Alusky dog breed is a cross between the Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky, making it a unique and energetic companion.
This mix is bred for tasks such as sledding, hauling, and search-and-rescue work, which requires a lot of physical activity and mental stimulation.
The Alusky needs a significant amount of space and a high activity level to be happy, which means they're not suited for small apartments or sedentary lifestyles.
They shed heavily twice a year and require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their thick coats.
If provided with what they need, an Alusky will be a faithful and remarkable companion for many years.
Their parents, the Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky, are cold-weather dogs that require careful monitoring in hot weather, so it's essential to consider the Alusky's needs in extreme temperatures.
The Alusky's parent breeds are recognized by some organizations, such as the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR), Designer Breed Registry (DBR), and American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), but not by the AKC.
Owning and Caring
Owning and Caring for a Husky Malamute Mix requires a lot of time and space. They need at least 90 minutes of exercise every day to stay healthy and stimulated.
You'll need to provide a spacious home with a medium to large-sized yard where your dog can roam and play freely. Fences should be reinforced to prevent escape attempts, as these dogs are notorious diggers and jumpers.
To prevent boredom and destructive behavior, mix up your dog's exercise routine with activities like jogging, training sessions, swimming, and interactive games. This will also help keep their intelligent mind stimulated.
Exercise & Living Conditions
The Alusky is an energetic dog that needs a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They require around 90 minutes of exercise every day, which can't be limited to just a long walk around the block.
To keep your Alusky's mind stimulated, mix up their exercise routine with activities like jogging, training sessions, swimming, and interactive games such as fetch and agility courses.
Your home or apartment should be slightly larger than average to accommodate a medium to large-sized dog like the Alusky. They need access to their own outdoor space where they can roam and play freely.
The fences in your yard need to be reinforced, as both parent breeds are known to dig their way out of enclosures and jump 6-foot fences when bored.
As a pack animal, the Alusky loves to be in the company of other animals, but their Malamute genetics can sometimes make them less tolerant of other dogs.
Owning a Mix
Owning a mix requires a thoughtful approach to ensure you're getting the right balance of nutrients for your plants.
For example, a mix specifically designed for cacti and succulents has a higher concentration of sand and perlite to prevent waterlogging.
This type of mix is not suitable for plants that prefer moist soil, like ferns.
A mix labeled as "all-purpose" can be used for a variety of plants, but it's essential to check the ingredients and pH level to ensure it meets your plant's needs.
Some mixes contain added fertilizers, which can be beneficial for plants that require a lot of nutrients.
Physical Characteristics
The Husky Malamute mix is a striking dog, with a wolf-like appearance that's hard to ignore. They typically have wedge-shaped ears on top of their broad head.
Their almond-shaped eyes are soulful and can be a variety of colors, including amber, bright blue, black, or brown, with some even having a different color in each eye. Their black or brown nose is a distinctive feature at the tip of their long muzzle.
Their compact body is heavily furred, with a long, heavily furred tail that's a great indicator of their high energy level. They're built for action, with large gait and strong shoulders that make them almost as intimidating as an actual wolf.
Additional reading: White Husky Wolf Mix
Breed Appearance
The Alaskan Malamute is a large, furry dog, powerful and lively.
Its athletic build is solid and muscular, making it well-suited for its original purpose as a sled dog.
The Malamute has a heavy double coat, which requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
Pointed ears and a curled tail over its back are distinctive features of the breed.
Despite its wolfish appearance, the Malamute has a soft and friendly expression.
The breed is typically white with black, grey or red shading, though individual variations can occur.
What Does It Look Like?
The Alusky's physical characteristics are truly striking. They have wedge-shaped, upright ears on top of their broadhead.
Their almond-shaped eyes are soulful and can have a variety of colors, including amber, bright blue, black, or brown, with some even having a different color in each eye.
Their compact body is topped with a heavily furred tail. Their large gait and strong shoulders make them look almost as intimidating as an actual wolf.
They have a black or brown nose at the tip of their long muzzle.
How Big Will a Mix Get?
A full-grown Siberian Husky Alaskan Malamute mix can reach a height of 20 to 28 inches (51 to 71 cm) and a weight of 45 to 75 pounds (20 to 34 kg). Some can be as heavy as 100 pounds (45 kg).
Their height can vary, but it's generally between 20 to 28 inches.
You can expect them to weigh anywhere from 45 to 75 pounds.
A mix of these two breeds can be quite sturdy, reaching weights of up to 100 pounds in some cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 10 old for a Malamute?
For an Alaskan Malamute, 10 years is considered relatively old, but with proper care, some individuals can live up to this age or even slightly beyond. Lifespan varies among Malamutes, but 10 years is a general benchmark for a well-cared-for dog.
Sources
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (cornell.edu)
- Alaskan Malamute Assistance League (malamuterescue.org)
- Siberian Husky Rescue Site (siberianrescue.com)
- live a longer life (wpcomstaging.com)
- Alusky (Alaskan Malamute & Siberian Husky Mix) (hepper.com)
- diverse gene pools (petmd.com)
- Alaskan Malamute Health Problems, Lifespan ... (iheartdogs.com)
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