Alaskan Malamute
A powerful Arctic sled dog, the Malamute is affectionate and playful but very poorly suited to hot climates.
Alaskan Malamute vs Siberian Husky
Side by side
| Trait | Alaskan Malamute | Siberian Husky |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Spitz and primitive types | Spitz and primitive types |
| Size | Large | Medium |
| Weight | 34–43 kg | 16–28 kg |
| Height at withers | 58–66 cm | 50–60 cm |
| Life expectancy | 10–14 years | 12–14 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Not recommended | Not recommended |
Key differences
- Heavier: Alaskan Malamute (about 38.5 kg vs 22 kg on average)
- Taller: Alaskan Malamute (about 62 cm vs 55 cm on average)
- Better with other dogs: Siberian Husky (4/5 vs 2/5)
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Both are similarBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Both are similarBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Siberian Husky is the better fitBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Siberian Husky
A sociable, hard-working sled dog, the Siberian Husky charms with its pale eyes and energy, but copes very poorly with heat.