When it comes to considering a strong, especially for the cold climate, as a new member of the family, the Alaskan Malamute and the Siberian Husky would not be far from the list. These two breeds have their origins having been developed for work purposes in different terrains. Although they can both be strong working breeds with impressive muscles, especially bred out of hard working conditions, they differ on the genetic aspects well known in temperament, overall appearance, and care. In reading this article, one will be able to learn about the general description of each breed with a particular focus on the health concerns, grooming, feeding, training, and behavior traits.
Appearance and Size
Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is elegantly standing with a muscular and powerful build; it has a height of 23–25 inches at the shoulders and weighs 85–100 pounds. It has a dense layer of fur and has the habitat of coming in with grey, sable, or white color. Their erect ears, wide head, and sturdy body are the features that indicate their role of sled dog and draft animal in the past.
Siberian Husky
Siberian huskies, in contrast, are somewhat smaller and more slender and have sizes of 20 to 23.5 inches high and 35 to 60 lbs in weight. They have a skinny and slender body, which makes it easy for them to run fast for a long distance. This animal can be covered with hair of different colors, and it has been identified to have patterns like black and white, red and white, or gray and white. Another factor is that huskies have beautiful and expressive eyes depending on the color that they possess.
Temperament and Behavior
Alaskan Malamute
Independence, poor temperament, and determination appear to be prominent major characters of malamute dogs. They are mostly attached to their owners and show a lot of affection to the families but are shy with strangers. This breed is well suited for the role of a companion dog to families where he can be the only pet, and he prefers in-door activities most of the time. Despite this, they are prone to assertive and possessive behaviors, therefore the need to ensure that they are well socialized and trained from a tender age.
Siberian Husky
That is why, when it comes to their character, one can describe huskies as friendly, sociable, and active. They are very friendly dogs and thrive on companionship; hence, they are suitable for families with children or other pets. While they are active and enthusiastic lovers, they can be quite a handful where discipline is concerned if not channeled aptly. They are also known to be aggressive and will bark often; this comes with the need to train if one wants to control barking.
Health Issues
Alaskan Malamute
Malamutes in general are medium- to large-strong-boned, and sites have their own unique health problems, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and hypothyroidism. Periodicity of the check-up is the key to early detection of problems that would need the attention of a professional veterinarian. Joint health supplements may also be prescribed to enable them to support their active, adapted lifestyle.
Siberian Husky
Huskies are similar to American Huskies in terms of robustness, but they are also prone to conditions including hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, among others, as well as skin allergies. Their primary skin along their abdomen is short, which causes some skin problems to worsen; it is therefore recommended to bathe Labradors frequently. Eye examinations are also important in observing any signs of PRA because it is a progressive disease.
Caring for Your Breed
Grooming
Alaskan Malamute
Malamutes have a thick undercoat and rough outer coat that needs frequent grooming with a brush, mainly when they are shedding. Bathe them weekly using the slicker brush or the rake to avoid matting of the hair and shedding. They also need to be bathed somewhat often so as to maintain proper skin and coat health.
Siberian Husky
Huskies have a thick undercoat, and there is shedding twice a year; therefore, they should be brushed on a daily basis during the shedding seasons. They do not require as much attention when it comes to grooming as the Malamutes, but the animals should be brushed frequently to maintain their coats and minimize shedding in the house
Exercise Needs
Alaskan Malamute
Malamutes are muscular and sturdy breeds that need regular exercise to lead happy and healthy lives. Outdoor exercise such as walks, hikes, or spending some time in a fenced yard is obligatory, as is running or playing in a secure area. Playfulness is also an important way, which entails the use of puzzles or training exercises for the dogs.
Siberian Husky
Huskies are rather active and should be provided with hours of exercise daily, in most cases at least 3-5. They will include walks, running, or a securely enclosed area where the dog can run and take a jog or play. Huskies do well when they can work according to their hereditary programming, which includes pulling sleds or other similar activities such as agility exercises.
Dietary Needs
It is attributed to the high energy demands from which both breeds require; they should be fed with an appropriate diet.
Alaskan Malamute
Malamutes require quantity of proteins in their diets since they have large muscles and more energy. It is preferable to feed active breeds the high-quality commercial dog food. The most crucial point is that their calorie consumption must be regulated so that they do not become overweight since they are prone to obesity.
Siberian Husky
The diet must be rather rich in proteins and contain omega-3 and omega-6 acids that help in maintaining skin and coat conditions. It should also be noted that for some people it can cause weight gain, and therefore correct portion control is of high importance. There are also some owners who prefer feeding their dog raw or homemade food that has been prepared to suit his particular kind of Husky.
Training and Socialization
Alaskan Malamute
Training a Malamute will take time and effort on the owner’s part, as well as commitment and the use of positive training methods. It might not be effective to use forceful tactics in the training since they are fairly autonomous in their undertakings. However, making friends at an early age is crucial to give them a proper social life, and to correct any dominant behavior, it is necessary to assert dominance just a little.
Siberian Husky
Despite these qualities, the huskies are intelligent dogs but not very obedient because of their dominance and energy. They are best trained in response to mental training as well as the use of treats. Therefore, child socialization is important so as not to develop shyness or become an aggressive person. Both consistency and giving positive reinforcement are keys to maintaining order and discipline in a Husky.
Behavioral Tips
Alaskan Malamute
Malamutes are very sociable and need to have a firm attachment to a person and, more so, the owner. It means they would be ideal for working families that can devote their time and direct the dogs on what to do. They should not be left alone for long hours because, although they can spend some time by themselves, for extended periods of time they destroy things.
Siberian Husky
Huskies are very friendly dogs and should be given an ample amount of time with their families. They become very active when they are locked up and should therefore be fenced well or supervised keenly. They are loud animals that need to be trained not to bark too much, although proper socialization can assist in the right development of most of them.
Conclusion
The Alaskan Malamute and the Siberian Husky are two outstanding breeds of dogs with special qualities that fit two utterly different types of living. In terms of character, the Malamutes are muscular, independent creatures and are well suited for families with the desire of having a loyal pet that will also be oriented toward the family. Thanks to their friendly and energetic temperament, Huskies are well suited for families that have the time to devote to meeting the breed’s exercise needs and who love outdoor activities.
Thus, the basic factors shared between these two breeds must be considered as to whether you possess an active lifestyle and are willing to accommodate for the needs each specific breed requires. If treated properly, trained well, and taken care of, either breed can be accepted as a part of the families’ households and provide a lot of amusement as well as friendship for a number of years.
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