Alaskan Husky
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General Description
Alaskan Huskies are not an actual breed of dog. Rather, they are a group of working dogs that are categorized by their ability to perform a certain function. Alaskan Huskies are proficient sled dogs that are usually larger and leaner than Siberian Huskies. They have long, muscular legs and a substantial tuck-up. Their coats are short or medium in length, and they are usually not as dense as those of the northern purebreds. The color and markings on this breed’s coat will totally vary. Their eyes can be blue in color, but are usually brown.Know something we don't? Add it here
Character
Predominately bred for work, Alaskan Huskies are intelligent, trainable, and have an independent streak. They are willful and stubborn, but also very gentle and kind. They have a cheerful disposition, and they make very loving pets. They are especially good with children and social with strangers. They do not bark much, and they aren’t particularly good watchdogs. They are laid-back, clever, and docile. Sometimes prone to getting bored or lonely, an Alaskan Husky needs plenty of companionship (ideally with other dogs) and a patient trainer. Alaskan Huskies generally make excellent companions, as long as an owner is understanding and dedicated of the breed.
Size
20-25 inches
Weight
38-50 pounds*
Male: 48-55 pounds Female: 36-45 pounds
General Health
Specific health concerns for Alaskan Huskies cannot be determined because they are not an actual breed. But as with any other sled dog, it’s important for Alaskan Huskies to be protected from the harsh, cold weather they work in. They frequently race in belly protectors and wear booties on their feet. Because this breed’s coat is less thick than that of the purebreds, they frequently require more care and attention on the trails. Their average life span is 12 to 15 years.
History
Alaskan Huskies are a crossed breed of dogs. They are derived from a mix of northern purebreds, most notably the Siberian Husky. Some lines may be descendants of wolves, but the breed is not considered to be a wolfdog. Alaskan Huskies are specifically bred for sledding and working. They are technically pedigreed, but are not considered pure.
Maintenance
Alaskan Huskies require little grooming. They are generally combed twice a year during heavy shedding season with a metal comb. The breed needs substantial exercise, but they shouldn’t exert themselves in warm weather. They require a large yard with a fence.*
More brushing may be required in a warmer climate. They have a double coat with a softer undercoat that acts as a thermal layer. They need weekly combing to maintain a healthy coat. Some may need bi-daily combing.
Ideal Environment
If properly trained and sufficiently exercised, an Alaskan Husky can tolerate any size of environment. They are active both indoors and outdoors, and they prefer to live in packs. They are used to cold climates and are not comfortable in warm weather conditions.
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Ask a QuestionAlaskan Husky Q&A

I am thinking of getting one of these dogs, a female puppy. I live in a townhome with a little yard that is not fenced in. I am reading this dog may not be well suited for this enviroment? Also, I am concerned about the boredom and the destruction I keep reading about? Any major problems there?

You've read correctly. Sorry. =( Why not consider a smaller dog, like the Alaskan klee Kai? It's so cute and looks similar to huskies. ^.^

well just make sure u take it on walks so it can have its excersice

Look for the nearest dog park. Ours loves to go play and run with the other dogs. Once we get home, she plops down and sleeps the rest of the day! Exercise and toys are the key.

i live in louisiana where it is pretty hot would that be a real bad thing

it says, oviously, that they can not stand heat. if u think about it, thier fur is pretty long -_- ( not 500 miles long, LOL :) ).

If I get a male puppy, will I have to worry about it hurting my wife's two cats?

yes. Huskies aren't very friendly to cats.

actually most huskies are calm with other animals if they are around them when they are young

If you are getting a pup the cats will show him whos boss! I have a 4year old husky and 3house cats and Junior is scared of them! He likes to play so he tries to rough house with my male cat but the cats really rule the roost! Cats can get away from danger if it would ever get out of hand but otherwise they all seem to do very well!

I have a 2 yr old female that shies away from my step sons cats. Especially in his house.

I think it depends on the nature of the cat as well as the nature of the dog. Our cat has a love hate relationship with our Husky. She ignores the dog, but likes to stay with in 10 feet of the dog. She also lets the dog groom her.

We have a had a husky since he was a puppy, he is now ten. He has been around cats his entire life and has never killed one. They actually will sleep in his dog house with him. I don't think you will have a problem as long as you train him early on that the cats belong there as well as him.

It is in a husky's instinct to catch and kill small creatures (prey). We had our huskys happily live with our cats for two years. Sadly, one night the husky's attacked and killed one of our cats. Just out of teh blue. We have had to rehome the other cat as it is very obvious they now see that one as prey too. If you have cats - dont get a husky. It's devestating when the dogs you love kill another pet.

I have a 4year old male alaskan husky and we would like to get an Olde English bulldog who is also male (puppy) do you think they will get along or will my husky try to kill the pup? Junior my husky gets along with other dogs but is jealous and has never been around other male dogs.

My first thought is that you might want to consider a fixed female instead of a male. The reason I say this is that both dogs would continually try to establish dominance, especially since the husky is considerably older. Just a thought. I could be off base here considering husky's are pack animals.

I have a 4 year male Olde English Bulldogge and brougt in a female 8 week old Alaskan Husky. I had the Bulldogge on a leash just incase I needed to pull him off...but the husky went up to him and took the leash and started walking the Bulldogge in the yard. They have been best friends and my husky is 10 months old now. They like to "mouth" each other but so far the bulldogge has gotten the scratches. No fighting just play. I also have 4 smaller dogs of both sexes and the female Ak husky show dominance over the 2 other males and the 2 females. All my dogs are fixed, but she still bullys the smaller dogs. I think you would do better with a bulldogge of a different sex because my Bully gets upset with my 2 small males...but not the females. Hope this helps.
