Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey with the Alaskan Malamute X Husky, also known as the Alusky? These captivating hybrid dogs combine the striking appearance of the Siberian Husky with the strength and endurance of the Alaskan Malamute. With their thick, fluffy coats and mesmerizing blue or brown eyes, they are perfect for active individuals who adore friendly and stubborn companions. In this article, HowPetCare will delve into the world of Alusky ownership, providing you with essential information to ensure a happy and fulfilling relationship with your furry friend.
Traits & Characteristics of the Alusky
The Alusky boasts several traits that make them an ideal companion:
- Good-natured
- Stubborn
- Friendly
Traits Summary Table
Trait | Husky Malamute Mix |
---|---|
Eye Color | Brown, blue, and amber |
Coat Color | Various colors |
Shedding | High amounts |
Height | 22 to 25 inches tall |
Weight | 55 to 85 pounds |
Temperament | Happy and friendly |
Lifespan | 10 to 14 years |
Intelligence | Very intelligent |
Physical Activity | Highly active |
Good With Kids? | Yes, great with kids |
Origin | Unknown |
Price | Up to $1200 |
Appearance
The Alusky is a medium to large-sized dog that often resembles a bigger and fluffier Husky. With a perfect blend of the Siberian Husky and the Alaskan Malamute, these dogs exude elegance and grace.
Color
Alusky's colors can vary, and it can be challenging to distinguish between the characteristics inherited from their parents. They can have colors such as all white, gray and white, sable and white, red and white, agouti and black, or the classic black and white. The Malamute side brings in shades of agouti and white, silver and white, cream, and blue and white. The eye colors can range from various shades of brown to shades of blue, brown, and amber.
Coat & Shedding
Be prepared for some serious shedding if you decide to welcome an Alusky into your home. Both parent breeds are notorious for their heavy shedding due to their thick, dense double coats. While they can handle cold weather exceptionally well, they may struggle in hot climates. Regular grooming is essential to keep their coats healthy and to minimize shedding.
Size
Aluskies are medium to large-sized dogs. A mix between a Husky and an Alaskan Malamute typically weighs between 55 and 85 pounds and stands between 22 and 25 inches tall. Their size makes them perfect for individuals who appreciate larger breeds.
Temperament & Personality
Aluskies are known for their cheerful and friendly nature. They love meeting new people but also possess a laid-back demeanor that sets them apart from purebred Huskies. However, they do require ample human companionship and can become destructive if left alone for extended periods. Aluskies are loyal and intelligent, but they can also display occasional stubbornness.
Lifespan
Aluskies benefit from the good health and long life expectancies of their parent breeds. On average, an Alusky can live between 10 and 14 years, providing you with years of companionship and joy.
Intelligence
Aluskies are highly intelligent dogs that thrive on mental stimulation. While they are smart, they can also exhibit strong-willed behavior. Finding what motivates them, such as a ball or treat, will help you train them effectively.
Activity Level
Both the Siberian Husky and the Alaskan Malamute are working dogs, which means Aluskies have high activity needs. They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Activities such as daily walks, runs, playtime in the backyard, obedience training, and interactive toys will help fulfill their exercise requirements.
Are Aluskies Good with Kids?
Aluskies make excellent family pets for active households. They are patient and laid-back, especially when it comes to interacting with children. However, due to their Husky side, they may have limits when it comes to tail-pulling or rough play. With proper training and gentle handling, Aluskies can form lasting bonds with children.
Speed, Strength & Endurance
Aluskies inherit the strength, speed, and endurance from their parent breeds. Their ability to carry heavy loads quickly makes them exceptional working dogs. Whether it's pulling sleds or accompanying you on long hikes, Aluskies are up for any challenge.
Behavior
Energetic, playful, and fun-loving, Aluskies know how to have a good time. However, they also appreciate downtime and enjoy relaxing on the couch. It's important to keep them mentally and physically stimulated to prevent boredom and mischief. Additionally, like their Husky relatives, they love to vocalize through howling and barking.
History & Origin of the Alusky
The Siberian Husky traces its origins back 4,000 years when it was bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia. These dogs played a vital role in the tribe's survival, providing companionship and assistance in hauling food and goods. Over time, they gained popularity worldwide.
On the other hand, Alaskan Malamutes originated in the Arctic region. They were used by the Mahlemiut Inuit people to haul heavy loads over long distances. The Malamute's versatility extended to tasks such as hunting and even search and rescue efforts during World War II.
The Husky Malamute Mix, or Alusky, emerged as a designer mixed breed, blending the desirable traits of both parent breeds. While they are not as common as their purebred counterparts, responsible breeders create these extraordinary dogs, ensuring they find loving homes.
How to Take Care of an Alusky
Taking care of an Alusky involves attention to their nutrition, exercise, grooming, training, and general health needs.
Nutrition
To keep your Alusky energized and strong, a diet rich in protein from sources like beef, poultry, or fish is crucial. Additionally, providing them with healthy fats is important. High-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs is essential. The recommended daily food intake for an Alusky is between 3 and 5 cups, depending on their size and activity level.
Exercise
Aluskies require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Daily walks, runs, games of fetch or chase, obedience training, and socializing with other dogs are all excellent ways to fulfill their exercise requirements. If you are unable to provide enough exercise, consider enrolling them in a doggie daycare or going for bike rides together.
Grooming
Due to their thick double coats, Aluskies need regular grooming to prevent matting and excessive shedding. Brushing them once or twice a week is the minimum requirement, but brushing once a day will yield better results. Tools such as a comb, slicker brush, and deshedding rake will help keep their coats in optimal condition. Occasional baths with deshedding shampoo and conditioner will assist in managing shedding. Be prepared for a substantial amount of hair around your home and consider investing in a good vacuum.
Training
Consistent training from an early age is essential for Aluskies due to their intelligence and occasional stubbornness. Use positive reinforcement techniques, finding what motivates them, and rewarding good behavior. Start with basic commands like recall and stay, gradually moving on to more advanced obedience training. Socializing them with other dogs and people is crucial, and crate training can help prevent destructive behaviors.
General Health
Aluskies are generally healthy dogs but may be prone to inherited health conditions from their parent breeds. Conditions such as hip dysplasia, retinal atrophy, polyneuropathy, hypothyroidism, and gastric torsion can occur. Regular visits to the veterinarian for check-ups and vaccinations will help keep your Alusky in excellent health throughout their life.
Alusky Price
As Aluskies are not as commonly bred as purebred Huskies or Malamutes, their prices can vary. In cases where accidental litters occur, the price may be lower to cover the mother's vet bills, ranging around $250 per pup. From a reputable breeder, the price can reach or exceed $1,200. Shelters or rescues may have Aluskies available for adoption at prices ranging from $200 to $400.
Alusky Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Outgoing, fun-loving, friendly, and sociable
Cons:
- Shedding
- Tendency to dig
- Howling/vocal
Alusky Mix Alternatives
If you are drawn to the Alusky's appearance, here are some other Husky mix breeds that may pique your interest:
- Samoyed Husky Mix
- Akita Husky Mix
- Husky Wolf Mix
- Eskimo Husky Mix
- German Shepherd Husky Mix
Recommendation
If you are an active individual seeking an outdoorsy companion with lots of fluff, the Alusky is an excellent choice. Their stunning looks and friendly personalities make them a perfect fit for adventurous families. Share your experience with Alusky ownership in the comments section below and let us know how these majestic dogs have enriched your life.
Keys to take away:
- Aluskies are a hybrid breed combining the Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute.
- They possess striking looks, a friendly nature, and a medium to large size.
- Aluskies require regular exercise, grooming, training, and veterinary care.
- These dogs thrive in active families and enjoy outdoor adventures.
- Consider adopting an Alusky from a shelter or finding a reputable breeder.
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