Alaskan Malamute Cross Husky: Breed Insights

The Alaskan Malamute cross Husky, also known as the Alusky, is a fascinating mixed breed. It’s famous for being strong, loyal, beautiful, and looking like a wolf. This breed comes from the Siberian Husky, Greyhound, German Shorthair Pointer, and Eskimo dog genes. They excel in tough climates, making them more than just pretty faces; they’re great members of the family.

Crossing the Alaskan Husky with the Malamute creates these special dogs. They have beautiful coats and are very friendly. These qualities attract many dog lovers, especially those who are active. But, they can be independent and full of energy. This means they need a lot of playtime and activities.

Key Takeaways

• The Alaskan Malamute cross Husky stands out because of its wolf-like looks and energy.
• Its family tree includes a mix of breeds like the Siberian Husky and Eskimo dog.
• They are built for tough weather, showing exceptional resilience.
• Because of their nature, it’s important to train and socialize them well.
• For active owners or families, these dogs are great, but they need lots of activities.

Introduction to the Alaskan Malamute Cross Husky

The Husky Malamute mix joins together top qualities from two lively breeds. This mix was bred in Alaska for hard work in cold, rugged places. It stands out for its role in famous races like the Iditarod.

Origin and History

The Alaskan Malamute cross Siberian Husky has a deep history in Alaska’s unforgiving lands. They were first bred for pulling heavy loads across snowy areas long ago. These dogs played a vital part in the survival of indigenous people and gold miners. Today, they shine in sledding and dog sports, carrying on their exceptional legacy.

Appearance and Traits

This mix stands out with its wolf-like look and firm body. Their fur comes in various colors and patterns, like gray or red. They don’t usually have the blue eyes you might expect, but they are still striking. They are very strong against cold and love to communicate with their owners through howling.

Aluskies can grow up to 28 inches and weigh from 60 to 100 pounds. They are very smart and can be trained easily, fitting well with active families. A balanced diet is key to keeping them energized and healthy.

Physical Characteristics

The Alusky, a mix of Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute, happens to be quite intriguing. They are known for their mix of strength, agility, and stamina. This combination makes them fascinating.

Size and Weight

Aluskies come in a wide range of sizes and weights. They stand about 26 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder. Their weight can change from 60 to 100 pounds. Males are usually bigger than females, reflecting their varied heritage.

Coat and Color

The Alusky’s coat is thick and full of various colors. This trait helps them in cold weather, thanks to their ancestors. You’ll find their coats in shades like gray, brown, and cream. These colors make them stand out from other breeds.

Personality and Temperament

Learning the personality and temperament of the Husky Malamute mix is crucial for those considering them. Known for their pack spirit, they fit well in families. But, they need good training and time to socialize properly.

Behavioral Traits

The mix is a balance of being independent yet loving. They show their love when trained right. Since they are energetic, they need daily exercise to stay happy and avoid bad behavior.

Their thick, shedding coat means they prefer colder places. Owners should be ready to brush them often. They can weigh 60 to 100 pounds and stand 20 to 28 inches tall, showing the mix’s wide range of sizes.

Compatibility with Families

They are great for families, especially those with older kids. Their pack nature helps them bond closely with their people. But, they might be too much for households with small children without proper training and a structured life.

Getting a Husky Malamute mix from a good breeder can cost at least $1000. They can live for 10 to 15 years, needing care and training for their whole lives.

For a complete guide on their behavior and traits, check this guide out.

Training the Malamute Husky Hybrid

Training the Alusky, which is a mix of Malamute and Husky, is very rewarding. It needs you to be dedicated and consistent. Malamute Husky mix training helps because they are independent.

Obedience Training Techniques

Starting obedience training with an Alusky at the start is very important. Use positive methods like treats to encourage good actions. The Alusky is smart but can be stubborn, so commands should be very clear and the same each time.

Keep training times short and interesting to keep them focused. Letting them meet new people and animals helps them adjust and react better around new things.

Socialization Tips

Socialization is key in Malamute Husky mix training. Aluskies need to meet new places, people, and animals early to avoid becoming scared or aggressive.

Making friends with other dogs and going on different walks helps their high energy and social skills. Regular and varied exposure helps them fit well into many social situations, making them good and happy pets.

For visual reference:

It takes hard work to train an Alusky, but the results are worth it. Every Alusky is unique, so it’s important to adjust your training methods to their specific needs.

Health and Lifespan

The Alusky, or Alaskan Husky cross, can live a long life. This is because its parents, the Alaskan Malamute and the Siberian Husky, are usually healthy. What they eat, how they stay active, where they live, and their genes all play big parts.

Common Health Issues

Hip Dysplasia and Cataracts are key health problems for Aluskies. Hip Dysplasia often affects big, active dogs. It can get worse if the dog is too heavy. Cataracts make the eye lens cloudy, which might cause vision loss. They can be passed down or happen because of injuries, infections, or diseases like Diabetes Mellitus. The good news is that cataracts in dogs can usually be fixed with surgery that’s not too risky. Making sure your dog sees the vet a lot and catching these problems early is very important.

Lifespan Expectations

Alaskan Malamutes tend to live 10 to 14 years, but Aluskies sometimes make it to 15. A balanced diet with lots of proteins, vitamins, and minerals, and regular exercise can add years to your dog’s life. Senior Aluskies need less food but more protein. Adjusting their diet as they get older and staying active with them can really help. Going to the vet often keeps your dog healthy by spotting health issues early.

Diet and Nutrition

The Alaskan Malamute cross Husky is known for energy and strength. They need a special diet to be healthy. This diet should match their age, size, and how active they are.

It’s key to feed them lots of proteins and fats. Real meat should be the top choice in their food. Proteins help keep their muscles strong. Omega-3 and omega-6 in their diet keep their energy up and their coat shiny.

Carbs from foods like sweet potatoes and brown rice give them lasting energy. This helps with digestion and keeps them healthy.

It’s also vital to give them the right vitamins and minerals. These keep them healthy and strong. Since they can gain weight easily, it’s crucial to watch how much they eat.

Include healthy treats, such as carrots or apples, to limit extra calories. This helps them stay fit.

For puppies, a diet that’s rich in protein and fat is essential. It helps them grow strong and full of life. Mix wet and dry food for different nutrients. When changing their diet, do it slowly to avoid stomach issues.

Homemade meals are an option but need careful planning. Always talk to a vet or nutritionist for advice. Drink plenty of water is always necessary.

A diet with omega-3s, glucosamine, and chondroitin helps their joints. Good bacteria from probiotics is great for their stomach. Foods that are easy on the heart keep them healthy.

Regular, small meals and food high in fiber can prevent bloat. Watching their diet closely and adjusting to their needs will keep your pet healthy for years.

Exercise Requirements

Keeping your Alusky active is key for their health and happiness. They have lots of energy because of their working background. A good exercise routine will keep them physically and mentally fit.

Daily Exercise Needs

Adult Alaskan Malamutes need about two hours of exercise every day. For an Alusky, this includes various activities to keep them stimulated. Their previous living situations might impact their behavior and energy levels.

Puppies are full of energy but also need a lot of rest. Owners may need to change their routines to fit their dog’s exercise needs. Extra attention is essential, especially for those that might have been mistreated before.

Recommended Activities

There are many fun ways to keep your Alusky active:

• Long walks: Taking them for walks each day is a must. You can use special gear like a bungee leash to avoid pulling.
• Play sessions: Playing in the yard with different toys several times a day is good for them.
• Running and jogging: These are great exercises thanks to their endurance.
• Indoor exercises: When the weather’s bad, have fun indoors with games like hide and seek.
• Winter sports: Skijoring and dog sledding are perfect for them.
• Swimming: It’s a gentle sport ideal for hot days.
• Socializing: Letting them play with other dogs is not only fun but also important for their social skills and exercise.

Be careful not to overdo exercise, especially with young or old dogs. Adapt the workouts to their age, health, and personality. Remember, they also need rest days to recover.

Grooming and Coat Care

The Alaskan Malamute cross Husky has a beautiful double coat. It needs careful grooming to stay healthy and look good. This coat has a dense undercoat for insulation and a tough outer layer. Regular grooming helps prevent tangles and mats, especially during shedding seasons.

Shedding and Maintenance

This mix sheds a lot, especially in spring and fall. Shedding can last up to six weeks. Extra brushing during these times is key to prevent mats and keep the coat nice. Daily brushing is a must outside of shedding seasons to keep the coat healthy and avoid odor.

Bathing and Brushing

Bathing this mix is needed only when dirty, so their natural oils stay. Too much washing can dry their skin. Keeping these oils intact with regular brushing is important. It removes loose fur and spreads natural oils for a shiny coat.

For more tips, check out the Arctic Rescue guide. It has detailed advice to ensure your Alaskan Malamute cross Husky is well-groomed and happy.

Living Environment

Choosing the right home for an Alaskan Malamute Husky cross is important. They need plenty of room to be happy because they’re very active. A home with a big yard or open space is ideal for them.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Living

Aluskies are big and need lots of space, so small apartments might not be the best choice for them. They enjoy running around in a big yard. This breed needs to be active, even if they live inside, to stay healthy and happy.

Suitable Climate

The Alaskan Malamute Husky cross does best in cooler places. Their thick coat keeps them warm in cold weather. But, they can be okay in mild climates too, as long as they are kept cool and have enough water.

Adopting an Alaskan Malamute Cross Husky

Deciding to bring an Alaskan Malamute Cross Husky into your home is big. It requires careful thought and planning. You must know the breed’s traits and health demands. It’s vital to pick a good breeder or adoption center.

Finding a Reputable Breeder

Choosing a Malamute Husky breeder carefully is key. You should pick those known for ethical breeding. Good breeders share details of the puppies and their parents’ health. This helps you avoid issues like hip dysplasia and Progressive Retinal Atrophy. Expect to pay at least $1,000 for a Husky Malamute mix from a trusted breeder because of the high standards they keep.

Adoption Tips and Considerations

Responsible adoption means checking if the dog fits your life. Malamute Huskies are big, needing about 60 to 100 pounds and stand 20 to 28 inches tall. They love being active and need a lot of exercise. Grooming their thick, double coats regularly is a must. These dogs often live 10 to 15 years, so it’s a long commitment.

Commit to regular vet visits and a balanced diet. This helps catch health problems early and keeps your dog healthy. Responsible adoption is about more than just picking the right breeder. It’s about taking good care of your dog for their whole life.

Pros and Cons of the Breed

The advantages and challenges of Alaskan Malamute crossbreed present a mixed bag for potential owners. Alaskan Malamute mixes are extremely loyal and love to be with people. They’re strong and make great companions for active owners or families.

But, the challenges of Alaskan Malamute crossbreed can be tough. Their energetic nature means they need a lot of exercise. If not exercised enough, they can act out by being loud or destroying things. Their stubbornness makes them hard to train without a firm leader.

Another challenge is with other pets. Malamutes can try to be the boss with other dogs, or they might chase smaller animals. They also like to escape, so a strong fence is a must. And, they shed a lot, which means lots of grooming to keep your house clean.

These dogs are loud too, which might upset the neighbors if left outside too much. Taking care of them means making time for exercise, grooming, and training.

Below is a summary of the advantages and challenges of Alaskan Malamute crossbreed:

To sum up, the advantages and challenges of Alaskan Malamute crossbreed show they need a special kind of care and attention for a happy life with their owners.

Conclusion

Getting an Alusky is a thrilling journey for dog lovers. It mixes the top traits of Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky. Owning an Alusky requires knowing about their needs for a happy, healthy life. Learn more about informed Husky Malamute ownership here.

An Alusky stands 20 to 25 inches tall and weighs 35 to 100 pounds. The size and weight depend on each parent breed. These dogs need about 60 minutes of exercise every day to stay healthy.

Alaskan Malamutes live 10 to 12 years, while Huskies live 12 to 14 years. It’s key to know the health issues each might face. Malamutes may have hip and eye problems, while Huskies might experience skin and eye issues. By taking care of their health, these dogs can live a long and happy life.

To own an Alusky means committing to their well-being. With proper care, training, and love, an Alusky will be a loyal and joyful partner for years. They bring happiness and fulfillment to their owner’s life.