If you’ve ever found yourself torn between the stunning Siberian Husky and the mighty Alaskan Malamute, you’re not alone. These two breeds share a lot in common, from their wolf-like appearance to their adventurous spirits, but they also have key differences that can make one a better fit for your lifestyle than the other. In this blog, we’ll dive into a "head-to-tail" comparison of Siberian Huskies versus Alaskan Malamutes, comparing their size, appearance, temperament, trainability, and more, to help you decide which breed might be the perfect addition to your family.
History
Siberian Huskies have a rich history deeply rooted in the remote regions of Siberia, Russia. They were initially bred by the indigenous Chukchi people around 3,000 years ago to help haul heavy loads through harsh conditions with minimal energy. Their remarkable endurance, strength, and adaptability to low temperatures were essential for survival in the unforgiving Arctic environment. In the early 20th century, local people began organizing races, such as the All Alaska Sweepstakes, which featured teams of 10 to 20 dogs. Huskies gained international recognition when they played a vital role in the 1925 Nome Serum Run, leading to their introduction to the United States as working sled dogs. Their popularity grew, and in 1930, they were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club.
It’s no surprise that Alaskan Malamute puppies hail from the region of what is now Alaska in the northern Arctic region. The Mahlemiut Inuit tribe is thought to have brought wolf-dogs to Alaska’s Norton Sound when they crossed the Bering Strait from Siberia, being distantly related to the Husky, among other breeds, though still a distinct breed. They were used as pack dogs, protecting tribes from polar bears and other predators, playing with children, keeping the family warm at night, and hunting seals and whales.
Other people, independent of Inuits, found ways to harness the remarkable work ethic of Alaskan Malamutes for various pursuits. Prospectors during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1800s quickly learned Alaskan Malamutes were indispensable to their pursuit of the precious metal. They also brought other sled dogs and dogs from the lower continental US, which almost wiped out the Malamute’s pedigree due to breeding different dogs together. However, due to the isolation of the Mahlemiuts, the dog breed was preserved, and the decline was reversed.
Size and Appearance
Siberian Huskies are some of the most beautiful dogs in the canine kingdom. Their almond-shaped, ice-blue eyes are reminiscent of sapphires or aquamarine (they can also have brown eyes or one of each called heterochromia). Huskies have a double coat that displays an array of patterns, hues, and shades, including black, brown, agouti, white, red, and gray, and with or without masks, piebald, or saddleback markings. Their coat colors may undergo shifts due to seasonal changes or other factors. When fully grown, Huskies stand 20-24 inches tall and weigh 35-60 pounds. Their medium frames are athletic and agile, and end in a wagging, sickle-shaped, furry tail. Siberian Huskies are smaller than Alaskan Malamutes, but larger than Alaskan Klee Kais.
Alaskan Malamutes have a powerful, imposing physique, standing 22-26" and weighing 75-85 pounds when fully grown. They have a dense outer coat consisting of a weatherproof layer and a soft, downy undercoat, which creates a temperature-regulating effect to keep them insulated from unforgiving weather conditions. Their bushy tails curl down onto their backs, resembling feathered plumes. Their erect ears, giant paws, powerful shoulders, deep chests, and nimble, athletic gait make them true powerhouses of the Arctic. Alaskan Malamutes come in nine different color combinations and two markings, including combinations of white, black, red, silver, gray, and with or without masks.
Temperament and Family Compatibility
If you’re looking for a tireless buddy to join you on your outdoor activities, Husky puppies are perfect for you. They’re among some of the best hiking dogs thanks to their stamina and love of adventure. Huskies are also very friendly and won’t be startled or threatened by passing strangers or other dogs out on the trail. After all, these puppies are used to racing hundreds of miles in harsh weather conditions, so what’s a little rainstorm at the top of the mountain?
Husky puppies are extremely friendly and can’t wait to meet everyone, human and dogs alike. Be sure to give them lots of opportunities to mingle with other friendly dogs. They do well in a multi-dog household, although their strong prey drive may discourage households with cats or other small animals. A dog buddy will provide play opportunities, emotional support, and an enriching environment, helping your Husky develop excellent social skills. Huskies are famously great with kids, enjoying bonding opportunities and playful interactions. They see themselves as part of the pack and want to be included with the whole family. As with any dog and kid interaction, teach both parties how to interact with one another, and supervise playtime to step in when needed.
Siberian Huskies have quite a set of pipes on them and are known to be one of the most vocal dog breeds. They will take every opportunity to “tell” you how they feel with their howls, barks, and yips. Their vocalizations are often a response to situations when they are seeking attention, bored, stressed, or hear fire alarms and emergency sirens. You can teach your Husky to control and manage its vocal nature. Due to certain living spaces’ rules on quiet hours and noise ordinances, make sure your Husky doesn’t get you a citation for literally howling at the moon after hours!
Because they are such social pack animals, Husky puppies tend to dislike being left alone and are prone to separation anxiety. Therefore, try not to leave them by themselves for long periods if possible. They’ll get frustrated, restless, and lonely, leading to undesirable behavior as an outlet for their pent-up feelings. As a Husky parent, you’ll need to exercise your Husky daily with at least one hour of focused exercise and provide several other opportunities for physical and mental exercise throughout the day. These dogs love a challenge to meet their energy levels. A consistent training method that establishes you as a confident leader is best for Husky puppies. Even if you get frustrated, never lose your cool and dole out harsh punishment based on fear. Rather, use positive reinforcement with treats, affection, and praise for the best results.
Husky puppies are independent and love to explore their surroundings. This isn’t a problem outside as long as you’re in an open space secured with a sturdy, tall fence. They also have a high prey drive and may bolt after small animals. Because of that, you’ll want to microchip your puppy.
While they may look intimidating, Malamutes are just as friendly as Huskies, if not more! They are poor watchdogs because they tend to view humans as friends rather than foes. They are playful, affectionate, and sweet-natured, making excellent playmates for children and other dogs. Malamutes are highly sensitive to human emotions and seem to empathize with their owners. This can be wonderful in moments when you need comfort, but frustrating when you see them getting stressed when you are! It can be challenging to remain calm and patient, but Malamutes can adapt to your mood.
The intelligence of an Alaskan Malamute is uncanny! They are bright and resourceful and will make their own fun if not focused and entertained. They are always up for an adventure and will create ways to fulfill their “need for speed.” Malamutes are not excessive, relentless barkers like other breeds. However, that doesn’t mean they’re quiet by any means. Malamute owners are often amused by their grumbles, growls, and other vocalizations, which they will come to learn to interpret. Because they are so intelligent, a Malamute may try to take over as the leader of the household. It’s so important to train your Malamute puppy from day one, starting with basic puppy training commands. You should enroll your Malamute in a puppy kindergarten-style class to reinforce basic commands and learn proper socialization with other puppies. From there, it’s a great idea to continue training with additional classes.
Grooming and Shedding
Huskies have beautiful, thick double coats, but behind that beauty comes a lot of work. Their double coat consists of a downy underlayer and a weatherproof, coarse outer layer. They require regular daily brushing with multiple brushes, such as an undercoat rake and slicker brush, to minimize shedding, prevent mats, and keep their coats clean of debris left over from adventures. Huskies are very heavy shedders and shed year-round, with fall and spring seeing a significant increase in hair due to them blowing their coats to prepare for the changing seasons. You’ll be an expert on ways to manage dog hair in your home and have plenty of dog hair removal tools in every room, car, and at the office. Be sure to invest in a great vacuum, too!
Huskies are built for arctic climates, which means they thrive as one of the best cold-weather dogs. They’ll jump directly into piles of snow, lie around on snow pillows, and frolic like little kids in weather that leaves us wishing for a roaring fire and a cozy blanket. However, as a Husky parent, you must prioritize their comfort. For example, a condo in Miami is not the best spot for them to grow up. They don’t do well in hot climates. If you have a Husky in environments where it gets hot, take special care to provide them with water and shade to keep them cool and prevent dehydration.
Huskies are considered a 'natural' breed. They are remarkably self-cleaning and often require only a few baths a year, unless they are being shown in conformation dog shows. Weekly brushings help keep the coat and skin in good condition. Their undercoat is shed twice a year, and it is essential to continually 'rake out' the old coat using a pin brush and a metal comb. Pay close attention to the length of the nails, and keep them trimmed to prevent any foot problems. Siberian Huskies competing in shows require a bit more selective grooming for the best presentation.
Just like Husky owners, it’s recommended that Malamute parents own as many hair-cleaning devices as possible. Why? Because a Malamute sheds profusely! Malamute parents like to discuss which high-powered vacuums and hair-removing devices are best for gathering all the fur that drifts around in mere seconds after vacuuming. Keep a lint roller in your closet, kitchen counter, purse, car – anywhere!
Never shave an Alaskan Malamute for any reason! They won’t get too hot in the summer, as their coat serves as an air conditioner, trapping cooler air next to the skin while their outer coat protects them from the heat. Malamutes thrive in cold because their thick fur creates an insulating layer between the skin and harsh elements, keeping their body heat close.
Malamute owners need to commit to brushing their coats out every few days to prevent mats and tangles, remove debris, and distribute natural oils throughout their coats. You’ll need to purchase a metal pin brush and an undercoat rake to remove dead hairs in both layers. It takes approximately two hours to fully groom an Alaskan Malamute. While you can do maintenance grooming at home, you may feel more comfortable having a professional bathe and blow-dry your dog. They’ll have a bathing facility big enough to bathe your dog, and you’ll be amazed at how much hair flies around during a high-powered blow-dry session! Malamutes can also be stubborn, so a professional groomer will have methods to put your dog at ease.
Show Malamutes are often bathed weekly, but a pet can go six to eight weeks between baths. Conditioner can be used moderately if the coat feels dry. As with all breeds, the Malamute's nails should be trimmed regularly. In addition to bathing and brushing, be sure not to skip other grooming essentials. Keep their nails at a reasonable length to prevent painful gait issues. Check their eyes and ears to see if they are clear of any blockage, debris, discharge, or irritation. Practicing good dental hygiene for dogs will keep their teeth clean and prevent diseases. You can always ask your professional groomer for tips to maintain your Alaskan Malamute or Siberian Husky if you have any questions about best practices.
Health Considerations
Because Huskies are so spirited and adventurous, they may get into some rough terrain and be hard on their paw pads. Keep their paws healthy by identifying common dog paw problems and having products handy to help mitigate damage, including using booties and keeping their paws well-moisturized. With proper healthcare, Huskies can live to be 12 to 14 years old. Hip dysplasia, eye conditions such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, and autoimmune disorders can affect them. Therefore, it is essential to maintain regular vet visits, follow a vaccination schedule, and take preventative measures against fleas, ticks, and heartworms. Huskies are generally a healthy, relatively long-lived breed and can still be quite active into their senior years. The incidence of hip dysplasia and eye disease is relatively low. This is an active breed, and for optimum health, they should be fed a high-quality protein-based food. A dog kept at optimum weight lives a healthier, longer life.
A responsible breeder will screen breeding stock for health conditions such as hip dysplasia (a malformation of the hip joint that is the most common skeletal condition in dogs), elbow dysplasia, thrombopathia, chondrodysplasia ('dwarfism'), hypothyroidism, inherited polyneuropathy, von Willebrand's disease, and day blindness. As with all breeds, an Alaskan Malamute's ears should be checked regularly to remove foreign matter and prevent wax buildup, and its teeth should be brushed regularly.
Cold Weather Pups to Warm Your Heart!
Whether you're captivated by the Siberian Husky's boundless energy and striking features or drawn to the Alaskan Malamute's gentle strength and loyal nature, both breeds offer incredible companionship and joy. At Pawrade, we celebrate the diversity and charm of these remarkable dogs. If this comparison has inspired you and you are ready to welcome a furry friend into your home, explore our current selection of puppies for sale. Discover firsthand the perfect match to complement your lifestyle and bring unconditional love into your life.
