Malamute vs Siberian: What You Need to Know Before Making a Decision

If you're considering bringing home a new furry friend, you're probably weighing the pros and cons of two popular breeds: the Malamute and the Siberian. Both are high-energy dogs that thrive in cold climates, but they have distinct differences that set them apart.

One key difference is their size: Malamutes typically weigh between 70-95 pounds, while Siberians usually weigh between 55-80 pounds. This affects their exercise needs, as Malamutes require more strenuous activity to keep them happy and healthy.

Malamutes also have a thick double coat that sheds heavily, whereas Siberians have a single-layer coat that sheds less. If you're not prepared for regular grooming sessions, a Siberian might be a better fit.

When deciding between a Malamute and a Siberian, consider the grooming needs of each breed. Malamutes require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their thick coats.

The Malamute is generally more energetic and requires more exercise than the Siberian. They need at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day to stay happy and healthy.

Siberians are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. They have a shorter, smoother coat that requires less brushing and maintenance.

Malamutes are known to be strong-willed and independent, making training a challenge for inexperienced owners. They thrive on structure and clear boundaries.

Siberians are highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement. They are often used as therapy dogs and search and rescue dogs.

Ultimately, the decision between a Malamute and a Siberian comes down to your lifestyle and preferences. If you're an active person who enjoys the outdoors, a Malamute may be the better choice.

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The first thing you'll want to do is check the size of the canine. Size is an easy way to tell if your dog is an Alaskan Malamute or a Siberian Husky - they can be large or medium-sized.

Alaskan Malamutes are generally heavier than Siberian Huskies, with a weight range of 70-94 pounds, while Huskies typically weigh between 35-59 pounds.

Explore further: Giant Alaskan Malamute Size

Eye color is often useful in telling these two breeds apart. Huskies can even have two different colored eyes, a condition called heterochromia.

The way the dog's tail hangs is often said to be the easiest way to identify the species from each other. Alaskan Malamutes have pretty bushy tails that spill out into a feathery plume over their backs, while Huskies have a less bushy tail that points downwards.

The length of the dog's coat is another distinguishing feature. While both breeds have double coats and shed a lot, the length of their coats is different - Alaskan Malamutes have a longer coat over their shoulders, neck, back, and rump.

Here's a quick comparison of the two breeds' coats:

Their coat colors are similar, but Alaskan Malamutes tend to have more of a mix of colors, fading between the two, while Huskies have more defined markings.

For your interest: Rare Alaskan Malamute Colors

Both Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies are independent thinkers that require proper socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training.

They have a unique endurance ability, making them perfect for active owners who enjoy running, carting, skijoring, hiking, snowshoeing, and biking. They can even carry their own water bottles and other excursion necessities.

Malamutes have an off-switch not as easily flipped on a husky, meaning a person who wants to enjoy the scenery rather than a continuous adrenaline rush is a better match for a malamute.

Huskies can be a tad more aloof, but they're wonderful companions and usually accept dogs of both sexes into the family equally.

Here are some shared behaviors between the two breeds:

Both breeds can get excited in the moment and might jump on people, making secure fencing and updated microchip information a must.

Both Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies are independent thinkers that require proper socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training.

They've inherited unique endurance abilities, so prospective pet owners must be able to keep up with all the running, carting, skijoring, hiking, snowshoeing, and biking.

Both breeds expect plenty of personal attention, especially from active people who want to explore the outdoors as much as they do.

Malamutes have an off-switch that's not as easily flipped on a husky, making them a better match for owners who want to enjoy the scenery rather than a continuous adrenaline rush.

Huskies might initially appear to be a tad more aloof, but they're wonderful companions and usually accept dogs of both sexes into the family equally.

Malamutes, on the other hand, are typically more people-oriented and ready to flop on their back for never-ending belly rubs.

Both breeds have a high prey drive, an intense desire to dig, and the ability to bond with kids.

Here are some key similarities and differences in the breeds' personalities:

Both dogs can get a little excited in the moment and could have a tendency to jump on people.

Malamutes are known for their distinctive "woo woo" noise, while Huskies are more prone to screams, howls, and chuffs.

If bored, both breeds can become destructive, so they shouldn't be left home alone for long periods of time.

It's essential to have secure fencing and an updated microchip, and always keep them on a leash in public.

The Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky are both Arctic sled dogs with unique histories and characteristics. The Malamute was bred to haul heavy loads across long distances, whereas the Husky was bred to run fast with lighter loads.

Their origins are quite different, with the Malamute descending from wolves that pulled sleds across the Bering Strait. The Husky, on the other hand, is from Northern Asia and was bred for speed.

To tell the difference between these two breeds, start with their overall size. The Malamute is built for hauling heavy loads, so it's generally larger and more muscular than the Husky. The Husky, by contrast, is leaner and more agile.

The ears and forehead of these breeds can also give you a clue. The Malamute has a distinctive "otter" face with a broad forehead, whereas the Husky has a more narrow forehead and triangular ears.

In terms of behavior, both breeds are well adapted to working in harsh conditions with little food. However, their temperaments are quite different. The Malamute is often described as a gentle giant, while the Husky is more energetic and independent.

One way to tell the difference between these breeds is to observe their behavior around food. Malamutes are known to be more laid-back and less food-motivated, whereas Huskies are more energetic and food-driven.

Ultimately, the best way to tell the difference between an Alaskan Malamute and a Siberian Husky is to spend time with them and get to know their unique personalities.

Related reading: Difference between English and American Bulldog

Siberian huskies can have hereditary defects of the eye, such as cataracts, which can present around 6-12 months of age and may require surgery.

Both Siberian huskies and Alaskan malamutes are at risk for hip dysplasia, a developmental condition that can be identified through Orthopedic Foundation for Animals hip testing.

Young puppies should only walk on natural surfaces for shorter distances to prevent joint damage, and should not pull substantial weights until their joints have matured around 2 years old.

Both Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies are generally healthy breeds, but they can be prone to certain health issues.

Hip dysplasia is a common problem that affects both breeds, and it's a developmental condition that can be identified through testing.

Young puppies should only walk on natural surfaces for shorter distances to prevent joint damage.

You should consult a reputable breeder who has completed Orthopedic Foundation for Animals hip testing to ensure the best likelihood of healthy hips and joints in a mature dog.

Siberian Huskies can be at risk for hereditary eye defects, such as cataracts, which can present between 6-12 months of age and may require surgery.

Alaskan Malamutes are at risk for polyneuropathy (PN) and epilepsy, which can be identified through testing but are harder to trace.

Both breeds can benefit from early harness work and gradual introduction to weight-bearing exercise to prevent joint damage.

The Malamute and Siberian are two of the most recognizable and beloved dog breeds, but have you ever wondered how they came to be? The Malamute has a rich history dating back over 4,000 years to the indigenous people of Alaska, where they were bred to pull heavy loads and withstand harsh Arctic conditions.

The Siberian, on the other hand, originated in Siberia and Russia, where they were used as sled dogs and companions. They were highly valued for their strength, endurance, and ability to thrive in cold climates.

One of the key differences between the two breeds is their original purpose - the Malamute was bred for heavy pulling, while the Siberian was bred for speed and agility. This difference in purpose is reflected in their physical characteristics, with the Malamute having a more muscular build and the Siberian having a leaner, more athletic build.

Despite their differences, both breeds have a strong instinct to work and pull, which can sometimes manifest as pulling on the leash or refusing to walk without pulling. This is a common issue that many Malamute and Siberian owners face.

If you're still undecided between an Alaskan Malamute and a Siberian Husky, consider their exercise needs. Both breeds require consistent training and a lot of physical activity to keep them happy and healthy.

You'll need to be an active, outdoor-centric person to keep up with these dogs. They're not couch-potato dogs and will require a lot of time and effort to keep them exercised and engaged.

Researching the breed and talking with owners who have experience with the breed can also be a great way to prepare. Many dogs end up in rescue or shelters because their owners were not prepared to deal with the characteristics of the breed.

If you're still undecided between an Alaskan Malamute and a Siberian Husky, consider their energy levels - both breeds are bred to run across snow deserts, so they have seriously high energy levels.

You'll need to be an active, outdoor-centric person to keep up with these dogs, as they're not couch potatoes. They need regular exercise to let off steam and dodge destructive behaviors.

If you're not prepared to deal with the characteristics of the breed, you might end up with a dog in a rescue or shelter. Research the breed and talk with owners to make sure you're ready for the challenge.

If you're still interested, you might want to consider a mix of the two breeds, an Alusky, which is a super active dog that needs consistent training.

The Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky are two breeds that are often confused with each other, but they have some key differences.

The Alaskan Malamute was bred to haul heavy loads for long periods of time at a slow pace, making them well-suited for work in harsh, cold conditions. They were bred by the Mahlemut tribe to pull sleds across long distances.

The Siberian Husky, on the other hand, was bred to run fast and carry lighter loads, making them ideal for sled racing. They were known for winning sled races at the start of the 20th century.

One of the easiest ways to tell the difference between the two breeds is to look at their overall size. The Alaskan Malamute is generally larger than the Siberian Husky. Their ears, forehead, and tail can also give away their identity.

Both breeds are highly energetic and need consistent training to stay happy and healthy. They're also super active, so they require plenty of exercise to keep them from getting bored or destructive.

If you're still having trouble telling the difference between the two breeds, you might want to consider adopting an Alusky dog, which is a mix of the two breeds. They're also highly energetic and need plenty of training and exercise.

Some states in the U.S. have pushed back against insurance companies profiling based on dog breed.

Insurance companies like Bankrate.com have listed Alaskan malamutes and Siberian huskies as one of the top 10 dogs that are most frequently blacklisted by insurance companies.

A few cities have even banned or restricted these breeds, designating them as "dangerous or vicious." You can check if your city has any restrictions.

Dog bites are still pretty rare among these breeds, but there have been a few incidents involving Alaskan malamutes and Siberian huskies in Canada between 1990 and 2007.