Alaskan Malamute (detailed introduction)

Husky (detailed introduction)

　　AKC Standard:

　　Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies were recognized by the AKC in 1935 and 1930 respectively. According to the AKC standards, these two dogs have not undergone any crossbreeding and are authentic, ancient, and purebred dogs. They are natural masterpieces.

　　The "Wolf" Build Also Differs

　　Even though both are wolves, their builds differ. Typically, an Alaskan Malamute is about six to seven centimeters taller than a Siberian Husky, and the weight difference is even greater, sometimes exceeding 20 kilograms. Therefore, I like to call them Big Mal and Little Husky. This is actually due to their working nature in the snow. The Big Mal, with its tall and burly body, can pull heavier sleds and does not need to be particularly fast; a balance of strength and endurance is extremely important. The Little Husky is naturally suited to pulling lighter sleds, perfectly combining strength, medium speed, and extraordinary endurance. These factors create differences in their body shapes; the Big Mal looks like a strongman, while the Little Husky is much more delicate.

　　Ideal Big Mal size: male shoulder height 25 inches, weight 85 lbs; female shoulder height 23 inches, weight 75 lbs.

　　Little Husky size: male shoulder height 21-23 inches, weight 45-60 lbs; female shoulder height 20-22 inches, weight 35-50 lbs.

　　The weight and height need to be coordinated. These are their maximum limits for height and weight. Beyond these limits, they are not considered excellent, and exceeding the maximum is disqualifying.

　　Obviously, the Big Mal does not have specified upper and lower limits here, giving a relatively broad impression, while the Little Husky is much stricter. This may be a coincidence but reflects America's different breeding philosophies for them, thus resulting in their different physical appearances. Even from a distance, it is not hard to distinguish them.

　　The description of the Little Husky is interesting: although it is very alert, it generally lacks aggressive and defensive awareness. How should this be understood? Perhaps only those who have raised a Little Husky can truly comprehend. My understanding is that the Little Husky’s alertness exists solely to satisfy its curiosity; it observes, judges, and appreciates because of curiosity. So, do not expect it to be a guard dog; it is a cheerful and docile "wolf."

　　Ultimately, no matter who resembles wolves more between the Big Mal and Little Husky. After evolving alongside humans for thousands of years, they have long transformed from wild canids into perfect human companions. Both in appearance and character, they are the kind of image that can warm people during extreme cold. They are intelligent, strong, loyal, tough, and full of charm. If they were wolves, many people would surely want to dance with wolves.

　　Quick Identification Table of Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky

　　Category Alaskan Malamute Siberian Husky

　　English Name Alaskan Malamute Siberian Husky

　　Origin United States Alaska Northeastern Asia

　　Shoulder Height Ideal shoulder height, male 25 inches, female 23 inches male 21-23 inches, female 20-22 inches

　　Weight Ideal weight, male 85 lbs, female 75 lbs male 45-60 lbs, female 35-50 lbs

　　Ear Distance Relatively large Relatively small

　　Ear Shape Triangular, smaller Triangular, larger

　　Eyes Almond-shaped, brown Almond-shaped, brown or blue

　　Head Shape Relatively wide Relatively narrower

　　Tail Curled over back Hanging down, raised like a sickle when excited

　　Temperament Friendly, affectionate Friendly and gentle, strong independence