Many people have doubts before adopting a dog, especially when there are so many breeds and crossbreed dogs in the world. Guiding us a little about the character and needs of certain dogs will be essential to know if it is the right dog for our lifestyle.
In this case we will talk about the differences between the Alaskan Malamute and the Siberian Husky, two large and beautiful dogs, both belonging to the group FCI V (Nordic sled dogs). Their energy and activity level is high so you should be prepared to take long and fun walks.
At first glance one might think that it is the same breed of dog. However, on our site we will help you by analyzing in detail what are the features that differentiate them.
Origins
Alaskan malamute
The Alaskan malamute has its origins in Western Alaska It was bred by the Inuit tribe in the late 19th century and was considered a an essential and valuable member of the tribe thanks to the fact that he made possible the existence of the Inuit in these remote and cold areas.
His obedient nature, extremely resistant and his qualities as a sled dog helped the people to move and transport food from certain areas to the camp. It was also excellent for hunting big game.
Later, during the time of the Alaskan Gold Rush, many people first discovered the amazing Alaskan Malamutes and their multiple qualities. It was then that it began to spread throughout the United States.
Siberian Husky
It is unknown exactly when the development of this breed began, but what is certain is that it dates back centuries. Already in prehistory there were the Chuckchi, one of many other tribes that coexisted in the cold and uninhabited areas of SiberiaEach of them took pride in breeding and developing a breed of dog. In this case, the Chuckchi tribe was the one that gave way to the Siberian husky.
For centuries, the Siberian Husky was used to hunt food and transport it to camp. Also for trade with other towns. But unlike what we might think, the husky was not used to transport heavy loads, they looked for the ability to withstand long walks.
Although with a mentality typical of the time, the Chuckchi cared for and respected the Siberian husky. They lived with him and fed him carefully. The great trust they had with this noble animal also led them to sleep next to it, especially children and women, who enjoyed the heat emitted by its body and helped them withstand the freezing temperatures.
Physical differences
To begin with we can observe a difference in weight and size between both specimens. The husky is noticeably slimmer and lighter, somewhat smaller, while the Alaskan malamute is somewhat more robust and larger:
- Siberian Husky:
- 50 - 60 centimeters at the withers
- 15 - 30 kilograms
- Alaskan Malamute:
- 58 - 63 centimeters at the withers
- 34 - 38 kilograms
We can clearly observe a light and fast movement in the Siberian Husky while the Alaskan Malamute has a more powerful and solid gait.
Differences in cranial structure
Both specimens can have a white face, with a dark vertical line or with a mask. However, at a structural level, we can observe the face that is thinner in the husky and thicker in the Alaskan.
On the other hand, the ears also give away each of these specimens. Both ears are medium but noticeably larger in the case of the husky and small in proportion to the enormous head of the alaskan malamute.
Differences in the eyes
A highly appreciated peculiarity of the husky is its ability to develop heterochromia as a genetic condition (one eye of each colour). You can also have brown or blue. In the meantime, the Alaskan Malamute will only show them as brown.
Coat Differences
The coat of both dogs is somewhat different: although both have a double layer of hair and can show different colors, the husky's outer layer of hair is usually soft and medium / long in size. The Alaskan Malamute's is longer (it can reach 5 centimeters in length) and has a slightly rougher outer coat.
Character differences
Alaskan malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a dog that enjoys the company of many different people, it is not a one-master dog, so it tends to be very obedientwith the whole family. He is very loyal and dedicated, he will never disobey an order if he is educated rigorously and using positive reinforcement. He is a very noble dog
Siberian Husky
The Siberian husky stands out for being a very extroverted and friendly dog , he is usually gentle and affectionate with those he lives with. Sometimes it maintains an alert behavior in the home but it is not at all a guard dog that is aggressive with strangers.
He is a very intelligent and docile dog, with a disposition to be a loyal and hard-working member of what he considers the "pack " of the. He loves to be mentally stimulated so mind games and active exercise will be very beneficial. Agility, for example, is a very good option for him.
Which one do you like the most?
Don't forget to comment and tell us what you think of each one!
