Husky vs Alaskan Malamute: How to tell the difference

Thinking about adopting a Husky or an Alaskan Malamute?

If you have ever found yourself daydreaming about adopting a fluffy, energetic, and downright stunning dog, chances are you’ve stumbled upon the Husky vs Alaskan Malamute debate. Both breeds are iconic, wolf-like, and pack a lot of personality, but how do you tell the difference when they look somewhat alike? Whether you’re a prospective dog owner, a curious enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys wandering through the dog park wondering who’s who, this detailed guide will help you confidently distinguish between these two magnificent creatures.

So buckle up, because by the end of this article, you’ll be able to spot a Husky or an Alaskan malamute from a mile away. Plus, you’ll understand what makes each breed special and maybe even decide which one fits your lifestyle best. Let’s dig into the details now!

Understanding the Basics: Husky vs Alaskan Malamute

Origins and history

Both Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes come from cold climates, bred for endurance and work, but their histories and backgrounds set them apart quite clearly.

Siberian Husky: Breeded by the Chukchi people of Siberia, the Siberian husky was built for speed and agility. These dogs were primarily used to pull lightweight sleds over long distances. Their smaller size compared to malamutes helps with endurance and quick travel.
Alaskan Malamute: Originating with the Mahlemut tribe in Alaska, malamutes were the heavy lifters of the arctic. They hauled heavy freight over long treks and were bred for power, strength, and stamina rather than speed.

So if you imagine your husky as the sprinter in a doggy race and the malamute as the strongman competitor, you’re getting the idea.

Purpose and work

Function drives form, and that’s especially true here. Huskies were bred for speed and hauling lighter loads fast, whereas malamutes were bred for power and endurance over rough terrain. This fundamental difference molds many of their physical and behavioral traits.

Physical differences: How to spot a Husky vs an Alaskan Malamute

Size and build

You might be wondering, “Is this just a bigger husky, or a malamute?” It’s a common question. Size is one of the easiest clues to use, so let’s break it down:

Huskies are generally smaller, with males weighing between 45-60 pounds and females a bit less. They feature a lean, athletic frame built for speed.
Malamutes are noticeably larger and more muscular, with males often weighing between 75-85 pounds or more. They possess a broad chest and deep body, reflecting their power-pulling origins.

Facial features and head shape

Here’s where those wolf-like faces start to differ if you pay attention. While both breeds have erect ears and striking eyes, key variations exist:

Huskies have a more refined, fox-like face, with a narrower muzzle and slightly smaller, triangular ears.
Malamutes have a broad head with a wider muzzle and larger ears set farther apart, giving them a bear-like appearance.

One fun way to remember this is to think of huskies as the sleek models of the breed world, and malamutes as the rugged lumberjacks.

Coat and color patterns

Considering both are arctic breeds, their coats are thick and double-layered, perfect for cold weather. But look closer:

Huskies have a variety of color patterns, including black, gray, red, and even pure white. Striking facial masks, often including distinct “spectacles” around the eyes, are common.
Malamutes typically have limited color variations, majorly sticking to shades of sable, gray, or black with white markings on the underbelly and face. Their coat is denser and longer than a husky’s.

Eyes and Expressions

Here’s a tidbit that might surprise you:

Huskies often have piercing blue eyes, though brown or even one blue and one brown eye (heterochromia) is common. Their eyes are almond-shaped and contribute to a mischievous, alert expression.
Malamutes usually have dark brown eyes, rounder and softer in expression, which often reads as calm and steady rather than playful.

So, if an icy blue gaze is locking you in, you’re probably looking at a husky.

Personality and temperament differences

Energy levels and exercise needs

Both breeds are active and need plenty of exercise, but the type of activity they thrive on can differ quite a bit.

Huskies are high-energy, quick, and love to run. They are known to be escape artists who can outsmart even the craftiest fence. Daily vigorous exercise, mental stimulation, and freedom to run in safe areas are critical.
Malamutes require consistent exercise but at a more steady pace. They enjoy pulling weight or trekking rather than sprinting. They also thrive on tasks that offer mental challenges combined with physical work.

Ever meet a dog that looks at you like they’re challenging you to a race? That’s your typical husky. Meanwhile, malamutes might just wag their tail and say, “I’m in it for the long haul, friend.”

One might say malamutes are the gentle giants, while huskies are the playful charmers with a touch of stubbornness.

Huskies are social and friendly with both people and other dogs, but they can be independent and sometimes mischievous, requiring firm and consistent training.
Malamutes bond closely with their family, often displaying a more reserved demeanor around strangers. They are loyal and calm but can be quite stubborn and strong-willed.

Both breeds can be vocal – huskies are famous for their “talking” and howling, while malamutes tend to be quieter but still expressive.

Trainability and intelligence

You might hear huskies called “escape artists” for good reason – their intelligence is high, but so is their independent streak.

Huskies learn fast but prefer to decide if they want to obey or not. Training requires patience, consistency, and creative motivation.
Malamutes can be stubborn, which sometimes translates to training challenges. They prefer a calm but confident leader, and lessons should be consistent and positive.

Think of huskies as the clever tricksters of the dog world and malamutes as the determined, focused athletes.

Care and maintenance: Grooming and health

Grooming needs

Both dogs have thick double coats designed to keep them warm through harsh winters, and that means shedding – often.

Huskies shed moderately year-round but have heavy shedding (also called blowing their coat) twice a year. Regular brushing helps manage loose fur.
Malamutes have denser and longer coats, and their shedding can seem relentless. They also blow their coats seasonally, making daily grooming necessary during those times.

A stray hair or two on your favorite black shirt? Just welcome to husky or malamute ownership.

Health concerns

Both breeds generally enjoy good health but are prone to some breed-specific issues:

Huskies: May experience hip dysplasia, eye problems such as cataracts, and sometimes skin issues related to their coat.
Malamutes: Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, inherited polyneuropathy (nerve issues), and bloat (gastric torsion), which requires immediate veterinary attention.

Regular vet checkups, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercise can help keep these fluffy dogs in tip-top shape.

Which breed is right for you?

Lifestyle considerations

Now that you’ve got the basics down, you’re probably wondering which breed fits your life. Here’s a quick roundup of considerations:

Huskies fit active, adventurous owners who enjoy running, hiking, and have the time and space to manage their high energy.
Malamutes are better suited to owners who want a dependable, strong companion that enjoys steady exercise, outdoor activities like camping, and lots of love without too much mischievous energy.

Remember, both breeds need firm guidance, socialization, and a lot of love. They are not your average couch potatoes – unless they’ve had a really long walk.

Living space and climate

Both breeds prefer cooler climates and lots of outdoor access. If you live somewhere hot or cramped, you’ll need to consider how to provide adequate cooling and exercise opportunities.

While a husky might unexpectedly shimmy under a fence to explore, a malamute might just settle in as the warm guardian of the home.

Summary on how do you tell the difference between a husky and an Alaskan malamute

So, how do you tell the difference between a husky and an Alaskan malamute? Here’s the deal:

Huskies are smaller, sleeker, often sporting blue eyes and striking masks, built for speed and spirited adventures.
Malamutes are larger, with a broader face, darker eyes, and a denser coat, made for strength and stamina.
Personality-wise, huskies bring the party with boundless energy and cheeky charm, while malamutes bring loyalty, calmness, and powerful presence.
Both need committed owners ready to provide ample exercise, grooming, and love – and a bit of patience for their sometimes stubborn antics.

In the end, whether you choose a husky or a malamute, you’re welcoming a lovable, spirited companion whose historical roots run deep in the icy tundra. Just picture those bright eyes watching you expectantly after a long day, and know that you’ve got a furry friend for life.