Husky vs Alaskan Husky: Choosing the Right Breed for You

If you're considering bringing a new furry friend into your family, you're likely torn between two popular breeds: the Husky and the Alaskan Husky. The truth is, both breeds have their unique characteristics, and choosing the right one for you depends on your lifestyle and preferences.

The Husky is a smaller breed, weighing between 35-60 pounds, while the Alaskan Husky is larger, weighing between 60-80 pounds. This size difference can impact your living situation, especially if you live in a small apartment or have limited space.

In terms of energy level, both breeds are high-energy dogs that require regular exercise. However, the Alaskan Husky tends to be more energetic and requires more strenuous physical activity. If you're an active person who enjoys outdoor activities, the Alaskan Husky might be a great fit for you.

Ultimately, the decision between a Husky and an Alaskan Husky comes down to your individual needs and preferences.

The Alaskan Husky is a unique breed with a fascinating history. They originated from the far north of the American continent, with some estimates suggesting they appeared as long as 12,000 years ago.

The exact details of their origin are unclear, although it's known that the first domesticated dogs were introduced by Siberian migrants to North America around 4500 years ago. They share a close relationship with the Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute.

Their lean physique makes them require more care and attention than other breeds, but their superior athleticism earned them the preference of many 'mushers' who relied on them for survival. They're bred for speed and endurance, not just strength.

The Alaskan Husky's appearance is quite distinct from other Nordic dogs, with a short to medium coat and dark, grey or black colouring. Unlike Siberian Huskies, they have brown eyes and are taller and more slender.

Genetic studies have proven a close relationship between the Alaskan Husky, Siberian Husky, and Alaskan Malamute, with evidence of cross-breeding with other breeds like the Greyhound and German Shorthaired Pointer.

Additional reading: How Much Do Siberian Huskies Weigh

Alaskan Huskies are sociable dogs that thrive in the company of others, making them perfect for interacting with visitors at the Husky Village.

Their love for company is rooted in their historical habit of living in groups and working in teams with humans. They're outgoing and eager to meet new people, which is a rare trait in some breeds.

However, their temperament shouldn't be mistaken for domestication; Alaskan Huskies are bred for sled racing and endurance, making them athletes that love running on snow and living in nature.

They're extremely competitive dogs that can tolerate fatigue and exhaustion, but this also means they need precise objectives and constant physical activity to stay happy.

Housetraining can take a long time, and crate training is almost essential, as they're naturally stubborn and require a firm and persistent approach.

Alaskan huskies are sociable dogs that love company and thrive on interaction with humans. Their historical habit of living in groups and working in teams has made them comfortable around people.

They can be stubborn animals, which is why it's essential to educate them from a young age. This requires setting precise objectives and engaging them in physical activities, such as running, which brings them immense joy.

Alaskan huskies are extremely competitive dogs that can tolerate fatigue and exhaustion well. They can easily sustain long training sessions and runs in nature during the middle of winter.

Their love for running is what makes them happiest, and they need to be engaged in physical activities daily to stay content.

Trainability is a crucial aspect to consider when bringing an Alaskan Husky into your family. They can be difficult to train unless you're training them for a specific task like pulling a sled over snow and ice.

Housetraining can take a long time, which means you'll need to be patient and consistent. Crate training is almost essential to help with this process.

Alaskan Huskies are naturally active and love to move, which can make recall training extremely difficult. They're more likely to chase after something interesting than come back to you.

It's essential to exercise caution and never let your Alaskan Husky off-leash, as they're prone to wandering off and getting lost.

Alaskan Huskies and Siberian Huskies are more alike than they are different, but there are some key differences to consider.

One of the main differences is in their weight, with Siberian Huskies typically weighing between 40 to 65 pounds, while Alaskan Huskies weigh between 35 to 55 pounds.

Siberian Huskies can be found in a range of colors, including white, gray, black, and even red, while Alaskan Huskies are typically all white or all black.

Siberian Huskies have a slightly longer fur coat, which matches their larger size, and both breeds have double-layered coats to keep them warm in frigid temperatures.

Alaskan Huskies are predominantly still used as sled dogs, whereas Siberian Huskies are often family pets.

Alaskan Huskies tend to be more work-orientated due to their historical use as sled dogs.

Both breeds shed throughout the year, but Alaskan Huskies can sometimes have smoother coats which can lead to less shedding.

Here's a comparison of the two breeds:

Alaskan Huskies are at risk of Encephalopathy (AHE), an incurable brain disease, which is not typically seen in Siberian Huskies.

The Siberian Husky is a popular breed known for its wolf-like appearance and friendly demeanor.

They originated in Siberia, where they were bred to pull sleds and provide companionship for the Chukchi people.

Siberian Huskies are highly social dogs that thrive on interaction with their human family.

They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Alaskan Huskies, on the other hand, are a type of working dog bred specifically for sled pulling and racing.

They are often crossed with other breeds, such as the Alaskan Malamute, to create a strong and agile dog.

Siberian Huskies typically weigh between 35-60 pounds and stand between 20-23 inches tall at the shoulder.

Alaskan Huskies can weigh anywhere from 40-80 pounds and stand between 22-26 inches tall.

Suggestion: Are Siberian Huskies Good with Kids

Alaskan Huskies are known for being cross-breeds themselves, which makes them less popular for crossbreeding with other purebred dogs. However, some interesting cross-breeds have been encountered.

Some of these cross-breeds include the Alaskan Amerindian Husky, which is a mix of an Alaskan Husky and a Siberian Husky, and the Pitsky, which is a combination of an Alaskan Husky (or Siberian Husky) and an American Pit Bull Terrier.

Alaskan Huskies are also known for being very sociable and loyal companions, which makes them a great fit for active families or individuals who enjoy spending time outdoors. They are the seventh fastest dog in the world and can run for long distances without getting tired.

For another approach, see: Do Siberian Huskies like Cats

Cross-Breeds can be a fascinating topic, and as it turns out, Alaskan Huskies are often used in cross-breeding, but not as widely as you might think.

Alaskan Huskies are themselves cross-breeds, making them a unique candidate for cross-breeding with other purebred dogs.

Some recognized crosses of Alaskan Huskies include the Alaskan Amerindian Husky, a cross between an Alaskan Husky and a Siberian Husky.

These cross-breeds can offer a mix of desirable traits from both parent breeds.

Let's take a look at some examples of Alaskan Husky cross-breeds:

Cross-breeds like these can offer a range of benefits, including improved health and increased intelligence.

Alaskan Huskies are incredibly sociable and loyal companions, bred to work with people and other dogs.

This means they thrive on regular interaction and attention from their owners, making them perfect for active families or individuals who enjoy spending time outdoors.

If you're an avid hiker or backpacker, you'll be happy to know that Alaskan Huskies are the seventh fastest dog in the world, with greater endurance in sled racing than Siberian Huskies.

They require plenty of exercises, but they also have a calm temperament, making them ideal around children.

With regular walks and fresh air, Alaskan Huskies can fit in well as a family dog.

They're also fairly healthy dogs, with a long lifespan of up to 15 years, allowing you to enjoy a long and fulfilling relationship with your pet.

Here are some key benefits of owning an Alaskan Husky: