Alaskan Husky

Alaskan Husky is a breed bred for working purposes. The dogs are physically characterized by their speed, endurance and ability to pull heavy loads in unfavorable weather conditions. Alaskan Huskies have great variability in appearance, but are noted for their dense coat that acts as a thermal insulator.

General details

Dogs of the breed are of medium size, weighing between 18 and 27 kg in males, and between 16 and 22 kg in females. Height varies between 51 and 64 centimeters in males and around 59 cm in females. Life expectancy is 10 to 15 years and they are not recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale.

Breed history in brief

The exact origin of the Alaskan Husky is unknown, but it appears to have originated in the indigenous Alaskan villages, where for a long time they were used as sled dogs for transportation and hunting. Genetic studies show that there is a close relationship between Alaskan Husky, Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute. Other breeds such as Greyhound or Saluki seem to have also been involved in the development of Alaskan Malamute, and this would explain the low body fat percentage of these dogs compared to other Arctic breeds. Today, Alaskan Huskies are often used for sled racing, although in some areas of the world they are still used for transporting goods. In addition to work and play purposes, in recent years some dogs have been bred as companion animals.

Breed characteristics

Due to the absence of a breed standard, the great variability in the appearance of Alaskan Huskies makes it difficult to describe them. Generally, they are medium-sized, muscular and lean dogs. The Alaskan Husky's limbs are muscular and long, as is its back. The eyes are almond-shaped and mostly dark, although a combination of blue and brown may occur. Its tail is curled and the head is wedge-shaped with pointed, erect ears. Alaskan Husky shows a dense coat with a wide range of colors, such as black, gray, white and tan, as well as a variety of coloration patterns. The skin of these dogs naturally produces oils that help remove materials that become trapped in their coat. Alaskan Husky dogs are characterized by their intelligence and their ability to work as a team, which makes them ideal for acting as sled dogs. They are also energetic dogs with great mental and physical endurance. Their nature is affectionate and this allows them to form strong bonds with their handlers.

Common health problems

Due to their working history, Alaskan Husky dogs usually present few hereditary health problems, even so, we can highlight the most common ones: laryngeal paralysis, progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, arthritis, hypothyroidism and cataracts.