Alaskan Malamute vs Siberian Husky
Both are Arctic sled dogs with thick double coats and independent minds, but they were built for different jobs. The Alaskan Malamute is much larger and heavier, bred to haul loads; the Siberian Husky is lighter and faster, bred to cover long distances. Both need lots of exercise and shed heavily.
At a glance
| Alaskan Malamute | Siberian Husky | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Large |
| Weight | 75–99 lb (34–45 kg) | 35–60 lb (16–27 kg) |
| Height | 22.8–25.2 in (58–64 cm) | — |
| Lifespan | 10–14 years | 12–14 years |
| Coat | Long · Thick double coat with a dense woolly undercoat | Thick double coat — undercoat and longer guard hairs |
| Origin | Alaska, USA | Siberia, Russia |
| Breed group | Working | — |
| Typical monthly cost | $145–$235 / month | $85–$135 / month |
| Temperament | Friendly, Independent, Powerful, Stubborn | — |
Temperament & care, rated 1–5
| Alaskan Malamute | Siberian Husky | |
|---|---|---|
| Energy levelNeeds a lot of activity every day | 5 | 5 |
| Exercise needsLong daily walks or workouts required | 5 | 5 |
| IntelligenceLearns quickly and solves problems | 4 | 3 |
| TrainabilityTakes to training readily | 2 | 3 |
| AffectionWants close contact with people | 4 | 4 |
| IndependenceCopes well with time alone | 5 | 1 |
| Good with childrenPatient and tolerant with kids | 4 | 4 |
| Good with other petsUsually settles with other animals | 2 | 4 |
| Apartment friendlyComfortable in a smaller home | 1 | 2 |
| Beginner friendlyForgiving for a first-time owner | 1 | 2 |
| SheddingSheds heavily | 5 | 3 |
| Grooming needsFrequent brushing or professional grooming | 5 | 3 |
| Noise levelVocal — barks, meows or calls often | 3 | 3 |
Highlighted = the easier choice for most owners on that trait (higher, except shedding, grooming and noise, where lower is easier).
The key differences
- Size: Malamutes are considerably heavier and larger than Huskies.
- Purpose: Malamutes were bred for strength and hauling; Huskies for speed and endurance.
- Eyes: blue or odd eyes are common in Huskies but not accepted in Malamutes.
- Both have a strong prey drive, are independent rather than obedient, and "blow" their coats heavily twice a year.
Choose the Alaskan Malamute if…
- You want a big, powerful, dignified dog and have room for one.
- You live in a cool climate and enjoy hiking, pulling sports or skijoring.
- You're comfortable managing a strong dog that may not get on with other dogs of the same sex.
Choose the Siberian Husky if…
- You want a medium-sized, athletic running companion.
- You can secure your garden — Huskies are famous escape artists.
- You enjoy a talkative, playful dog.