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Alaskan Malamute vs Siberian Husky

Both are thick-coated Arctic sled dogs for cool climates; the Malamute is bigger and more strong-willed, the Husky lighter, faster and more energetic.

Alaskan Malamute profileSiberian Husky profile

Verdict

The Alaskan Malamute and the Siberian Husky are northern sled dogs with thick coats, heavy shedding, low trainability scores and a need for 90 minutes or more of exercise a day. Both suffer in heat, are poor apartment choices, and call for a very secure yard.

Size and manner divide them. The Malamute is much heavier, bred to haul heavy loads, and is described as dignified and strong-willed, so its profile rates it as a poor match for first-time owners. The Husky is the smaller and faster of the two, rates higher for energy and for children, and is outgoing and mischievous, though it is known for escapes and is a poor match for homes with cats or rabbits.

Choose the Alaskan Malamute if

  • You are an experienced owner who wants a powerful, affectionate dog
  • You live in a cool climate and have a very secure yard
  • You can handle a dog of 75 to 85 pounds
  • You accept heavy shedding and an independent mind

Choose the Siberian Husky if

  • You want a medium-sized dog that loves to run
  • You are a very active owner who hikes or runs
  • You value an outgoing, playful nature with children
  • You can supply hours of exercise and a fence built against escapes

Side by side

Alaskan Malamute Siberian Husky
AKC group Working Group Working Group
Size class Large Medium
Typical weight 75 to 85 lb 35 to 60 lb
Height 23 to 25 in at the shoulder 20 to 23.5 in at the shoulder
Typical lifespan 10 to 14 years 12 to 14 years
AKC popularity, 2025 81 of 202 30 of 202
Shedding Very heavy Very heavy
Grooming needs Moderate Moderate
Energy High Very high
Trainability Below average Below average
Barking Seldom barks Barks sometimes
With children Good with supervision Very good
Apartment living Poor Poor
First-time owners Experienced owners only Challenging
Heat tolerance Poor Poor
Cold tolerance Excellent Excellent
Temperament
  • affectionate
  • strong-willed
  • playful
  • dignified
  • outgoing
  • mischievous
  • energetic
  • independent
Health concerns to know about
  • hip dysplasia
  • inherited polyneuropathy
  • hereditary cataracts
  • hypothyroidism
  • bloat
  • hip dysplasia
  • juvenile cataracts
  • progressive retinal atrophy
  • corneal dystrophy
  • hypothyroidism
Suits
  • experienced owners
  • active people in cool climates
  • households with a secure yard
  • very active owners
  • people in cool climates
  • runners and hikers

Facts and ratings come from each breed's profile. They describe a breed as a whole, and individual dogs vary, so meet the dog before you choose.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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