Malamute vs husky – 6 differences that make them stand out

The Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky are a pair of loyal, friendly and dedicated dogs based on the job for which they were originally bred. While both breeds have made their way into the homes of pet owners, their heights and even the amount of exercise they require varies greatly. Even their care, cost, and longevity can make all the difference which one you choose.

These two dogs have the same black, gray and white coats, and they even have different noses that cannot be distinguished. When we investigate their origins and nature, their true characteristics and physical traits help everyone decide which animal is right for them.

Comparison of Malamute and Husky

In the following table, we have identified some of the key differences between Malamute and Husky. While the Alaskan Malamute is part of the Spitz family, the Siberian Husky is classified as a working dog, but they both differ in size, temperature preference, and more.

6 main differences between malamutes and huskies

When you get a dog, you need to make sure you know what you are getting yourself into. However, the confusion between Malamute and Husky has arisen for a long time. Everyone seems to think they know the true breed differences, but right? Both animals have a remarkable physique and similar sizes, but there are 6 main differences that we will look at here.

Malamute vs husky: curly vs elongated tail

The easiest way to tell a Malamute from a Husky is with its tail. Over the years of breeding, the curly tail has become an evolutionary trait that helps the dog retain body and muzzle warmth when curled up. In addition, it is much thicker than the husky’s tail, which is often fully extended.

Malamute vs husky: attitude towards the wolf

If you don’t know where a malamute looks good, don’t go further than a wolf! The breed was developed almost 3000 years ago, and its size is much closer to that of a wolf. According to legend, the Inuit who bred them would leave their dogs tied to a tree in the forest in the hope that the wolf would mate with them to improve their strength.

The husky doesn’t have much of the same genetics as the wolf. In contrast, the breed is closer to the Spitz family, which includes dogs such as the Pomeranian and Akita.

Malamute vs Husky: breeding around the world

While genetics are clearly rooted in different breeds, huskies and malamutes come from completely different parts of the world. The Husky is native to Northeast Asia and was bred by the Chukchi people as a sled dog. Only in the 20th century did Siberian huskies come to the United States at the request of the residents of Alaska.

On the other hand, the Malamute was bred directly into northwest Alaska by the Malemutes, a nomadic Inuit tribe in the area. Instead of working as sled dogs, the Malemutes used them as protection from polar bears and for hunting seals. However, they sometimes carried supplies over long distances like sled dogs.

Malamute vs Husky: Taking Care of the Haircut

As beautiful as both dogs are, grooming is absolutely essential. The husky requires much less effort to keep its coat in good condition, only brushing every week and bathing several times a year. Malamutes have incredibly high grooming requirements, and the only way to minimize shedding and mats is by brushing your teeth daily and bathing every 6-8 weeks.

Malamute vs husky: full of personality

Each of these dogs has a reputation as a pack animal that loves their families. However, the husky prefers to stay with his human family and does not like to be abandoned. Malamutes will be independent on their terms and they can only thrive as pets.

Malamute vs Husky: Exercise

There is no doubt that both huskies and malamutes need to get out and move, but the ways in which they get the most out of exercise differ greatly. Huskies love speed exercises, running around a large backyard and even in a large living room to release their energy. On the other hand, the Malamute likes to do a bit of work, taking with them whatever they might need for the adventure. Even if they just keep a small backpack with a water bowl, they enjoy a little extra work in their movement.

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