Alaskan Malamute vs Siberian Husky
Which breed is right for you?
Alaskan Malamute
Powerful arctic freighter with a wolfish look
vs
Siberian Husky
Born to run, built for snow.
Quick verdict
Both are arctic sled dogs with thick double coats, heavy shedding, strong independent streaks, and a real need for an experienced, active owner, but the Alaskan Malamute is the large, powerful freight hauler (34-39 kg) while the Siberian Husky is the lighter, faster medium runner (16-27 kg). The single biggest difference is size and intensity: the Malamute is a stronger, more dominant dog built to pull heavy loads, while the Husky has even higher, more relentless energy and an almost limitless urge to run and escape. Neither is an easy first dog, but the Husky needs a bit more daily mileage and the Malamute needs a bit more firm leadership.
At a glance
| Alaskan Malamute | Siberian Husky | |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Working | Working |
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Weight | 34-39 kg | 16-27 kg |
| Height | 58-64 cm | 51-60 cm |
| Lifespan | 10-14 yr | 12-14 yr |
| Origin | United States (Alaska) | Siberia (Russia) |
| Energy | 4 / 5 | 5 / 5 |
| Trainability | 2 / 5 | 3 / 5 |
| Friendliness | 4 / 5 | 5 / 5 |
| Shedding | 5 / 5 | 4 / 5 |
| Barking | 2 / 5 | 3 / 5 |
| Good with kids | Good with kids | Good |
| With other dogs | Can be dominant | Good (pack) |
| With cats | High prey drive | With care |
Choose the Alaskan Malamute if:
Choose the Alaskan Malamute if you want a larger, calmer, quieter dog with a dignified presence, you can give firm and consistent leadership, and you prefer a companion that barks little even though it sheds the most.
Full Alaskan Malamute profileChoose the Siberian Husky if:
Choose the Siberian Husky if you want a smaller, friendlier, more outgoing dog with sky-high stamina for running and hiking, you have a very secure fenced yard, and you can keep up with its boundless energy and escape-artist habits.
Full Siberian Husky profileFrequently asked questions
Which is better for families with kids?
Both do well with children when properly socialized and exercised, and both are friendly rather than aggressive toward people. The Husky is medium-sized and gentle, while the larger, stronger Malamute is also good with kids but suits active, experienced families who can handle its size.
Which one sheds less?
The Siberian Husky sheds slightly less than the Alaskan Malamute, which has the heaviest shedding rating. Both have thick double coats, blow their undercoat twice a year, and need frequent brushing, but the Malamute leaves the most loose fur overall.
Which is easier to train for a first-time owner?
Neither breed is ideal for first-time owners, but the Husky is rated a little more trainable than the very independent, strong-willed Malamute. Both are intelligent yet stubborn and need early, patient, consistent training, with the Malamute demanding the firmest leadership.