Siberian Husky vs Alaskan Malamute: side by side
| Siberian Husky | Alaskan Malamute | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Weight | 16–27 kg (35–60 lb) | 34–39 kg (75–85 lb) |
| Height | 51–60 cm (20–23.5 in) | 23–25 in (58–64 cm) |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years | 10-14 years |
| Exercise | 90–120 per day | 60–90 per day |
| Shedding | Extreme | Moderate |
| Temperament | Friendly (poor guard dogs — they love everyone), dramatic, vocal (the famous 'talking'), tireless. High prey d | AKC temperament summary: loyal / playful / affectionate. Adaptability 3/5, affection with family 3/5, openness |
The differences that actually matter
- Alaskan Malamute is the bigger dog. Adults run 34–39 kg (75–85 lb) against 16–27 kg (35–60 lb) for the Siberian Husky.
- Siberian Husky needs more exercise. Siberian Huskys are listed at 90–120 per day a day against 60–90 per day for the Alaskan Malamute.
- Shedding: Siberian Husky is rated extreme, Alaskan Malamute moderate. The Siberian Husky is the one that leaves more fur around the house.
- Lifespan: Siberian Husky 12–14 years vs Alaskan Malamute 10-14 years.
- Trainability: Siberian Husky — Moderate-challenging — smart, independent, unmotivated by pleasing you. Alaskan Malamute — Excellent — eager to please, picks up new cues fast
- First-time owners: Siberian Husky — No — unless you are a runner in a cool climate with a tall fence. Alaskan Malamute — Yes — forgiving of beginner mistakes.
So which one should you get?
Pick the Siberian Husky if you want: Serious runners/hikers in cool climates who want a partner, not a pet..
Pick the Alaskan Malamute if you want: Active people who genuinely enjoy daily exercise; commitment to socializing a natural guardian..
Neither is the "easier" option across the board — they fail in different ways. Be honest about which failure you can live with.
Health: what each one is prone to
Siberian Husky: Eye issues (cataracts, PRA, corneal dystrophy); Zinc-responsive dermatosis; Hypothyroidism; Heat intolerance
Alaskan Malamute: Hip dysplasia — confirm breeder screens breeding stock (OFA/PennHIP); Elbow dysplasia; Hypothyroidism; Dental disease — brush regularly; small jaws crowd teeth
Ask any breeder or rescue for the health testing relevant to these conditions before you commit. This page is educational — not veterinary advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a Siberian Husky and a Alaskan Malamute?
Alaskan Malamute is the bigger dog. Adults run 34–39 kg (75–85 lb) against 16–27 kg (35–60 lb) for the Siberian Husky. Siberian Husky needs more exercise. Siberian Huskys are listed at 90–120 per day a day against 60–90 per day for the Alaskan Malamute. Shedding: Siberian Husky is rated extreme, Alaskan Malamute moderate. The Siberian Husky is the one that leaves more fur around the house. Personality differs too: the Siberian Husky is friendly (poor guard dogs — they love everyone), dramatic, vocal (the famous 'talking'), t, while the Alaskan Malamute is akc temperament summary: loyal / playful / affectionate. adaptability 3/5, affection with
Which is bigger, a Siberian Husky or a Alaskan Malamute?
Alaskan Malamute is the bigger dog. Adults run 34–39 kg (75–85 lb) against 16–27 kg (35–60 lb) for the Siberian Husky.
Is a Siberian Husky or a Alaskan Malamute better for first-time owners?
First-time owners: Siberian Husky — No — unless you are a runner in a cool climate with a tall fence. Alaskan Malamute — Yes — forgiving of beginner mistakes.
Which sheds more, a Siberian Husky or a Alaskan Malamute?
Shedding: Siberian Husky is rated extreme, Alaskan Malamute moderate. The Siberian Husky is the one that leaves more fur around the house.