The words Dog Breed Info with the letter D inside of a black paw print

Alaskan Husky

Information and Pictures

A white Alaskan Husky sitting on dirt with mouth open

Adult Alaskan Husky who actively enjoys sled pulling and pulling her owner on skis

Description

Alaskan Huskies are usually somewhat larger than Siberian Huskies. Alaskan Huskies are usually leaner in build than Siberians. Siberians often have blue or any combination of blue and brown eyes, whereas Alaskan Huskies often have brown eyes.

Temperament

Alaskan Huskies are primarily bred as working dogs. They have greater endurance in sled racing than Siberian Huskies do. Gentle and playful, this cheerful dog is very fond of his or her family. A puppy at heart, they are clever, sociable and loving, easy-going and docile, though they do generally have a lot of energy, especially as puppies. Good with children and friendly with strangers, they are not watchdogs, for they bark little and love everyone. Huskies are very intelligent and trainable, but they have a mind of their own and will only obey a command if they see the point and if you do not display leadership, they will not see the point in obeying you. Training takes patience, consistency and an understanding of the Arctic dog character. If you are not this dog’s 100% firm, confident, consistent pack leader, he will take advantage if he can, becoming willful and mischievous. Huskies make excellent jogging companion, as long as it is not too hot. Huskies may be difficult to housebreak. This breed likes to howl and gets bored easily. They do not like to be left alone, so if this is the breed for you, you may want to consider having two. A lonely Husky, or a Husky that does not get enough mental and physical exercise can become very destructive. Remember that the Husky is a sled dog in heart and soul. They are good with other pets if they are raised with them from puppyhood. Huskies are thrifty eaters and need less food than you might expect. This breed likes to roam. Alaskan Huskies can make wonderful companions for people who are aware of what to expect from these beautiful and intelligent animals. Although there are exceptions to every rule, there are a number of breed characteristics that are generally present among members of this Arctic breed.

Height, Weight

Weight: Males 40 - 60 pounds (18 - 27 kg) Females 35 - 48 pounds (16 - 22 kg)

Health Problems

-

Living Conditions

They are not usually recommended for apartments, however they can live in apartments if well trained and properly exercised. Alaskan Huskies are very active indoors and do best with a fenced-in large yard. Because of their heavy coats, these dogs prefer cool climates. One has to use common sense with respect to maintaining them in the heat by providing adequate shade and air conditioning. This breed prefers to live in packs.

Exercise

Alaskan Huskies need a fair amount of exercise, including long daily walks. Take caution excessively exercising in warm weather. They need a large yard with a high fence, but bury the wire at the base of the fence because they are likely to dig their way out and go off hunting.

Life Expectancy

About 10 -15 years.

Litter Size

About 4 to 10 puppies

Grooming

The coat does not need much care except during the twice a year heavy shedding seasons, when they have to be combed thoroughly with a metal comb.

Origin

Alaskan Huskies are carefully bred to produce the best working dogs possible. The breedings of the Alaskan Husky are planned breedings and are technically pedigreed, however they are not consider pure and are not registered by the AKC or CKC because they are sometimes crossed with other Northern and non-Northern breeds to produce the best working dogs possible.

Group

Working

Recognition
  • DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

See more examples of the Alaskan Husky