If you are wondering there are differences between an Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky, the answer is YES.

 

Malamute vs. Husky

 

Maybe you are looking to choose a pet between a Husky and Malamute, here we go, read the article, and then you can have a better decision.

 

Why are Malamutes often mistaken for huskies?

The Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute are both sled dogs with a vastly different temperaments. The Malamute is more friendly and dignified, while the Husky is eager to interact with people and enjoys human company. The difference in personality is most pronounced in their tails, which are peppy, bushy, and fluffy. A husky’s tail is shorter and slender, while the Malamute’s is broader and more extended.

The Alaskan Malamute is a large, medium sized dog, but the Siberian Husky is a much smaller dog. Both are intelligent and likable. The main difference between the two breeds is the tail. While both can extend their legs and stand upright, the Malamute is a more giant, medium-sized breed.

The two dogs have similar coats, but the Husky is more luxurious and slicker. The Husky is usually more energetic and friendly, while the Malamute is more active. They have similar physical characteristics, but their personalities differ. Both are very friendly and outgoing and are good with other dogs.

They tend to be friendly and love to be around humans; they should not be expected to maintain the same level of socialization as a malamute does. Neither breed has significant health problems, although they should be examined regularly. A husky needs regular examinations, but a malamute may have more intense separation anxiety than a Husky.

Both dogs are large, which means they can be classified as giants. They can stand 26 inches tall and weigh ninety pounds. The male is larger than the female, while the female is smaller than the male. They will need daily exercise to remain healthy and happy. If you’re a beginner at owning a husky, it’s essential to understand the differences between the two breeds. They both need to be kept active, and it will be better if you have a schedule that works for both of you. If you want to take your dog to the park, make sure you get an apartment. It’s a better match if you live in an apartment with limited space.

 

Malamute vs. Husky

 

Which is bigger, Malamute or Husky?

The two breeds are different in size and weight. The Malamute is larger than the Husky, but both are medium-sized. While the Malamute likes to spend time with Humans, the Husky is more independent. The Malamute is a much larger sled dog than the Husky and is classified as a large to giant breed. This means that the Malamute has a bigger build.

They can grow as tall as 26 inches and weigh 95 pounds. They are both suited for living indoors or outdoors, although the former is often more suited to colder climates. A Malamute weighs more than a hundred pounds, whereas a Husky weighs about sixty pounds. A Husky has a longer tail and a flat back.

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Husky owns more coat color.

Both two dog breeds are famous for the soft coats that make them appear like wolves. Their fur is dense and consists of a thick, double coat.

A Husky’s coat is denser and bushier, and he has more coat color’s than the Malamute. In comparison, the Malamute is straighter and longer. Although both breeds have a dense coat, the Husky’s is easier to maintain. A husky’s tail may develop hair, while the Malamute’s is shorter and full. The Husky has a rounded head and a longer tail, while the Malamute’s is more compact. A male Malamute’s seat can also carry either way.

 

Malamute vs. Husky

 

Sled dogs, from different countries.

Alaskan Malamutes originated from Alaska, as their name suggests. The Mahlemut tribe of Alaska created this breed, and it is believed that they are among the oldest breeds of arctic sled dogs. They are descendants of the first wolf dogs.

In the Alaskan gold rush, the Malamute nearly went extinct. The working dog’s were so in great demand that some locals started breeding Malamutes alongside other breeds. There were many Malamute mix breeds; however, purebreds were quickly disappearing. Fortunately, the breed survived as American Kennel Club recognized it in 1935.

Siberians quickly discovered the Huskies were the ideal breed to race sleds and began to race these fantastic dogs. These dogs can beat Samoyeds, Greenland Dogs, and Canadian Eskimo Dogs.

 

Malamutes are known to be independent.

While huskies tend to be more sociable and stick with their humans, malamutes are independent and do not prefer to interact with strangers. The Husky is more affectionate, while the Malamute is more protective of their children. Huskies and malamutes both enjoy socialization, although the Malamute is more reserved. This trait may make it difficult to socialize with a Husky, so be sure to take it easy when socializing with strangers.

 

Malamute vs. Husky

 

Malamute needs to be high-maintenance.

While the two breeds are very similar in their appearance, they are pretty different regarding their health and coat care. Huskies are much less likely to have chronic illnesses like cancer, and their coats are generally healthier than the Malamute. But they need to have regular examinations.

While huskies are lower-maintenance, they still need regular baths, which are time-consuming and expensive. Malamute can suffer from different diseases like chondrodysplasia, thyroid dysfunction, day blindness, and hip, elbow dysplasia. In comparison, Husky can suffer from thyroid dysfunction, juvenile cataracts, corneal dystrophy, and hip dysplasia.

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What differences are in the lifespan of Malamute and Husky?

The Malamute is longer-lived than the Husky (10 to 12 years, versus 12-14). They both require the same amount of exercise and healthy food, so taking care of them will prolong their lives. However, the needs of both breeds are similar.

 

Malamute vs. Husky

 

Malamute is more aggressive.

Malamutes can also show protective and territorial behavior. Both of them can be good guard dog’s. This may result in aggression towards other dogs. Because Malamutes can sometimes be aggressive, they are less suited for families with children than Huskies. In addition, if you choose to bring one home, they should be the only dog breed in your home. They are both territorial and may have aggressive tendencies, but it’s so much more in Malamute than Huskies.

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Huskies have almond-shaped eyes.

Another difference between the two breeds is their eyes. The Malamute has a white face, while the Husky has almond-shaped eyes. Malamutes almost always have brown eye color, while many Huskies have blue eyes or have one blue eye and one brown eye. If the Malamute has blue eyes, they are disqualified. The Husky has a white face. While both dogs can adapt to any climate, a male’s eyelids should be more pronounced than a female’s.

Huskies have lower maintenance requirements.

A Malamute dog needs more attention and daily brushing. But Huskies have lower maintenance requirements. You’ll need to keep an eye out for hot spots and mats because malamutes are more sensitive to heat than Husky coats are. Also, unlike huskies, malamutes must be bathed every six to eight weeks, which means more frequent baths are necessary if you’re planning on showing your dog.

 

Video: Malamute vs Husky – Dog vs Dog

 

Conclusion.

Many differences between a Malamute and a Husky make these dogs great choices for families. While both dogs have similar characteristics, they are very different. Both breeds have dwarfism. As a result, it’s essential to look into their health. While both are great companions, huskies are more prone to dwarfism. The Husky is a more social and playful dog breed than a malamute.

In comparison, the Husky is much less friendly and can become aggressive with newcomers. A Husky is generally a calmer and more social dog, while a Malamute dog is more active. They have different personalities and are great companions for families. These are high-energy breeds and need activities, and they are both loveable and friendly fuzzy giants. They are sociable and also want engagement with Humans.

Author

I’m a long-time animal lover and owner of two dogs and three cats. I grew up on a farm where we had all sorts of animals, from cows and horses to pigs and chickens. My love for animals led me to pursue a career in writing about them. I have been a pet care writer for over 5 years and have extensive knowledge of animal care, health, and behavior.

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