Siberian Husky vs Alaskan Malamute
Siberian Husky or Alaskan Malamute? A side-by-side comparison of size, lifespan, temperament, care needs and observed prices, from our Animal Library.
At a glance
| Siberian Husky | Alaskan Malamute | |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Working | Working |
| Size | Medium · 35–60 lb | Large · 75–85 lb |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years | 10–14 years |
| Coat | Thick double coat, sheds | Thick double coat, sheds |
| Temperament | Friendly, independent, playful | Friendly, strong, willful |
| Best fit | Active owners, cooler climates | Experienced owners, cold climates |
| Energy | ●●●●● 2 hrs exercise daily | ●●●●● 1–2 hrs exercise daily |
| Trainability | ●●●●● Independent, poor recall | ●●●●● Smart, independent |
| Grooming load | ●●●●● Weekly, huge seasonal shed | ●●●●● Huge seasonal shed |
| Beginner fit | ●●●●● Escapes, digs, howls | ●●●●● Strong and stubborn |
| Observed price | $700 median (107 prices) | $850 median (41 prices) |
How they differ
- Energy: the Siberian Husky rates higher than the Alaskan Malamute (5 of 5 vs 4).
- Trainability: about the same (2 of 5 each).
- Grooming load: the Alaskan Malamute rates higher than the Siberian Husky (4 of 5 vs 3).
- Beginner fit: about the same (2 of 5 each).
The Siberian Husky
Bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia to pull light sleds over long distances, the Husky is built for endurance and independence. Friendly with almost everyone and beautiful, it is also an escape artist that needs a lot of running.
Huskies dig, howl, chase small animals and escape any weak fence, and most cannot be trusted off leash. They blow their coat twice a year and struggle in hot climates without care.
The Alaskan Malamute
One of the oldest Arctic sled breeds, the Malamute was bred to haul heavy loads over long distances, not to race. It is powerful, affectionate and friendly with people, but independent, strong-willed and often intolerant of other dogs.
Malamutes dig, pull hard on leash, chase small animals and can be dog-selective, especially same-sex. They blow coat dramatically and are uncomfortable in hot climates.
Questions
Is a Siberian Husky or an Alaskan Malamute better for a beginner?
Neither has the edge: both rate 2 of 5 for beginners in our Animal Library. Siberian Husky: Escapes, digs, howls. Alaskan Malamute: Strong and stubborn.
What is the main difference between a Siberian Husky and an Alaskan Malamute?
Huskies dig, howl, chase small animals and escape any weak fence, and most cannot be trusted off leash. They blow their coat twice a year and struggle in hot climates without care. By contrast, malamutes dig, pull hard on leash, chase small animals and can be dog-selective, especially same-sex. They blow coat dramatically and are uncomfortable in hot climates.
Which costs more, a Siberian Husky or an Alaskan Malamute?
On the prices we observed, the Siberian Husky median is $700 (107 prices) and the Alaskan Malamute median is $850 (41 prices).