The Alaskan malamute and the Siberian husky, although they are very similar, is not the same breed! In fact, there are notable differences between them, both physically and in character. Can't you tell these two breeds of dogs apart? We teach you!
Alaskan malamute and Siberian husky, two different breeds
It is not uncommon for people to confuse these two breeds of Nordic dogs. It is even common for many to not even know that there is a dog called Alaskan malamute, assume that they are all Siberian huskies. But no!
The Alaskan malamute and the Siberian husky are not the same, and despite being very similar at first glance, there are quite a few things that set them apart.
Origins
The first difference between Alaskan malamute and Siberian husky is as important as the origin. They don't even come from the same place!
Alaskan malamute
As the name suggests, Alaskan malamute comes from Alaska, specifically from the western area. Do the Inuit amen? This tribe was responsible for raising the Malamute race during the 19th century. In fact, they really appreciated it: Alaskan malamute was indispensable in the day-to-day life of the Inuit tribe: it was a strong, intelligent and obedient dog, widely used to pull sleds and be able to be transported to other more populated areas.
Later, when the so-called gold rush emerged, the Alaskan malamute began to spread throughout the United States, in order to be used to look for this precious metal.
Siberian husky
It is not known exactly when the Siberian husky race emerged, but it is known that it is very, very old! In prehistory, one of the many tribes living in cold Siberia was the Chuck chi. each of the tribes was responsible for raising a breed of dog, with the Siberian husky raised by the Chuckchi.
These dogs defended themselves very well to travel long distances, so they were used to transport goods to the camp and to trade. But they didn't carry as much weight as the Alaskan malamute! A big difference between Alaskan malamute and Siberian husky is its ability: they are different, while malamute could carry a lot of weight but held less travel, the Siberian husky carried lighter loads but traveled much more distances long.
Beyond its daily utility, the Siberian husky was more integrated into the family. The Chuck chi’s confidence in the husky was such that they slept next to these dogs to keep warm. Children included!
Physical differences between Alaskan malamute and Siberian husky
The size and weight of Alaskan malamute and Siberian husky are different. The malamute is noticeably larger.
Alaskan malamute: between 60 and 65 cm in height, 35 – 40 kg of weight.
Siberian husky: between 50 and 60 cm in height, 15 – 30 kg of weight.
While the movements of the malamute are very forceful and powerful, the Siberian husky moves more fluidly, lightly and elegantly.
The head is also a clear difference between Alaskan malamute and Siberian husky. Although the faces are similar, the malamute head is noticeably larger relative to its body, while that of the husky is more compensated and finer. The ears are also longer in the Siberian husky. The eyes may also be different: a Siberian husky may have brown, blue or heterochromia eyes (one of each); Instead, the eyes of the Alaskan malamute are always chestnut.
The hair of Alaskan malamute and Siberian husky has similarities and differences. Both coats can be of the same colors and are composed of double layer. But it's not all the same! Malamute has hair rougher and longer than Siberian husky.
Character differences between Alaskan malamute and Siberian husky
The Alaskan malamute, although it is very obedient, affectionate, faithful and familiar, is not a dog of a single owner. He is able to get attached to many different people and is kind to everyone.
The Siberian husky, on the other hand, is something different. He's nowhere near a distrustful dog, either on duty, or aggressive. But it is true that, although he is usually friendly, he can be somewhat more distant with strangers, showing himself more protective of his family than he would be an Alaskan malamute.
We could say that, if the Siberian husky is affectionate and sweet, the Alaskan malamute is even more so. In any case, both are docile, intelligent and very friendly dogs. They are also quite active and love to feel helpful and mentally stimulated. They are ideal dogs to practice sports such as agility and intelligence games.
Want to know more about Alaskan malamute and Siberian husky? In Waksman you will find everything you are looking for on these two majestic races. Which one do you like best?