Main Difference – Alaskan Malamute vs. Siberian Husky
Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky were originally bred for sledding purposes and were used to carry freight over areas where people could not reach during the winter season. The main difference between Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky is that Alaskan Malamutes are larger dogs whereas Siberian Husky can pull more weight for a shorter duration. As the names imply, Alaskan Malamute dogs and Siberian Husky dogs were originated in Alaska and Siberia respectively. Sled dogs are heavily built dogs especially used in the northern world where snow falling is common. Moreover, these dogs are well known for their speed, strength, endurance, intelligence and loyalty. Other than the Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky, there are two other sled breeds; Eskimo dog and Alaskan Husky. However, this article mainly highlights the difference between Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky.
Alaskan Malamute – Facts, Characteristics, and Behaviour
Alaskan Malamute were first bred in Alaska by a group of Eskimo people called Mahlemiut, and they were used to carry foods to their villages. These breeds have thick broad chests, strong feet, and thick coats with two layers. An adult Malamute weighs between 80-120 lbs and is about 24-26 inches in height. Due to their thick coats, they can survive very cold temperatures for a long period. These dogs were commonly used on long adventure trips and expeditions. However, recently developed Malamutes are less capable of distance racing and sledding. Hence, most of these dogs now keep as family pets.
Siberian Husky (left) and Alaskan Malamute (right)
Siberian Husky – Facts, Characteristics, and Behaviour
Siberian Husky is a medium-sized breed and well known for its intelligence, speed, trainability, friendliness, and loyalty. An adult Siberian Husky weighs between 40-60 lbs, and is 21-24 inches tall. Siberian Huskies are easily trainable due to their pack-dog origins. These breeds originated in eastern Siberia and were initially bred by the Chukchi tribes. They used these dogs to pull their sleds. Siberian Huskies have thick coats with two layers, which gives them the ability to survive in extremely cold conditions (temperatures as cold as -60 °C). Siberian Huskies can carry more weight than Malamutes but for a short period of time. These breeds have a wolf-like appearance and are popular as family pets because they are very loving to people and tender with kids.
Difference Between Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky
Origin
Alaskan Malamutes were first bred in Alaska.
Siberian Huskies were first bred in Siberia.
Size
Alaskan Malamute weighs about 80-120 lbs and is about 24-26 inches in height.
Siberian Husky weighs about 40-60 lbs and is about 21-24 inches in height.
Alaskan Malamutes are larger than Siberian Huskies.
Eyes
Some Siberian Huskies have blue eyes.
Alaskan Malamutes never have blue eyes.
Coat’s color
Alaskan Malamutes can be black, gray, or, red and white.
Siberian Husky can be black, black and white, black and tan, or brown.
Shedding
Alaskan Malamutes shed constantly and seasonally.
Siberian Huskies shed moderately.
Litter Size
Alaskan Malamute can give birth to 4-10 puppies.
Siberian Husky can give 6-8 puppies.
Life Expectancy
Alaskan Malamute can live for 10-12 years.
Siberian Husky can live for 11-13 years.
Average Puppy Price
Alaskan Malamutes are expensive than Siberian Huskies.
Adaptability
Alaskan Malamute has better adaptability than Siberian Husky.
Skills
Siberian Husky can pull more weight than Alaskan Malamute but only for a short period.
Image Courtesy:
“Siberian Husky Ivan and Alaskan Malamute Inu” by Randi Hausken (CC BY 2.0) via Wikimedia Commons
