The Alaskan Husky Has Many Variations Except for One Strong Trait: A High Level of Energy!

The Alaskan Husky is a hybrid rather than a purebred dog and is used primarily to work rather than to show. Originally, breeders attempted to produce individual dogs with particular characteristics, such as speed, stamina, or coat type. However, the pursuit of these traits still produces significant differences in individual dogs. The Alaskan Husky is closely related to the Siberian Husky, and also has a mix of other dogs in its ancestry, including the Inuit Husky, German Shepherd, Border Collie, and many more. The Siberian Husky was bred before the Alaskan Husky, but the Alaskan Husky has gained popularity because of its incredible speed in sled dog races and remains the best racing sled dog in the world. It is also an excellent family or companion dog because it offers the positive characteristics of other Husky breeds while having a calmer temperament.

History

Experts believe that the Alaskan Husky sled dog's ancestor was the Native Village dog, a species that was taller and leaner than most modern Alaskan Huskies. The original "Native Village" dogs were purely indigenous dogs and no longer exist, but are purported to have been fully domesticated when they lived with the Inuit and Paleo Indians centuries ago. Today's Alaskan sled dogs are really crossbreeds of different pedigrees, the majority of which have a significant amount of Siberian Husky in them, but also can include the German Shepherd, Border Collie, Inuit Husky, among others. Some also consist of German Short Haired Pointer, which produces a uniquely modern so-called "Eurohound," which is perfect for races. Each Alaskan Husky "line" is carefully bred to exhibit the specific characteristics desired by mushers, whether that be speed, thick coats, tough feet, etc. This diversity is evident in the Alaskan Husky's appearance, with different coat colors and markings, as well as large range of size. Alaskan Huskies bred for racing speed usually weigh from 35 to 60 pounds. However, many mushers breed what might be considered the classic racing Alaskan Husky by using a strong Siberian Husky influence along with the Canadian Inuit Dog. These dogs are usually slightly smaller and leaner than the Siberian Husky.

Because the Alaskan Husky is a hybrid mix, its general health tends to be quite hardy. Experts also report that the Alaskan Husky can have all the beauty of the Siberian Husky, for example, but is a much calmer dog, making it the perfect family pet.

Appearance

Although the classic Alaskan Husky’s physical traits closely resemble those of the Siberian Husky, there can be many variations. Adults can weigh between 35 and 60 pounds in adulthood, and stand roughly 22 to 25 inches at the shoulder. Coat colors can differ and markings are not consistent. The Alaskan Husky usually has a short- to medium-length coat with a head that can be wedge-shaped like the Spitz breed, or sometimes defined by a longer muzzle. Because Alaskan Huskies are so varied in appearance – with some meant to pull heavy loads; some meant to sprint; and some meant to run long-distance; this dog may look very similar to, or very different from, the Siberian Husky with whom it is most commonly associated.

Temperament

The Alaskan Husky is a type of dog rather than a breed of dog, and its personality can be as varied as its appearance. However, most experts believe that the Alaskan Husky is a calmer type of husky as compared with other similar huskies like the Alaskan Malamute or the Siberian Husky. Considering all of this dog’s many variations, the one characteristic which is constant among all is its exceptionally high level of activity. If you can't keep up with a dog with this type of physical stamina, it's best to get another dog. Without exception, Alaskan Huskies are perpetually energetic and need lots of exercise. In addition, the Alaskan Husky loves people, is gentle with children and needs human companionship at all times.

Although not particularly prone to misbehaving, Alaskan Huskies have relatively strong-willed personalities and will take charge if you don't. These dogs are also true pack animals, meaning that you need to establish yourself as “pack leader,” with a firm but gentle training style to successfully control this type of dog. It will also prefer the company of other dogs for a true "pack family" environment. Not tolerant of apartment living or a sedentary lifestyle, Alaskan Huskies are greatly distressed when left alone, and should never be chained out in the yard or confined to a doghouse or kennel.

The Alaskan Husky functions best as a working dog motivated by a focused, intelligent and hardworking drive. This dog will behave best (and be happiest) if it is given a job to perform. Whether you choose to designate this dog as your jogging partner or ask it to pull loads for you on your farm, your Alaskan Husky will strive to satisfy your requests with obedient and enthusiastic diligence.

Health

As a hybrid, the Alaskan Husky is very healthy, with an average life span of 10 to 15 years. Some particular "strains" can exhibit the health problems of the purebred dogs that make up their parentage, including hypothyroidism and progressive retinal atrophy. Some Siberian Huskies are born with a congenital deformity of the larynx that causes them to wheeze but breeders continue to work toward a solution.

Be aware that because the Alaskan Husky was bred NOT to be a picky eater, this dog will eat anything and everything – including garbage. Keep your garbage cans – and those of your neighbors – securely sealed to deter invasion, and encourage a standard diet as recommended by your vet.

Grooming

Similar to the Alaskan malamute or Siberian Husky, the Alaskan Husky's coat is generally self-cleaning and should only need infrequent bathing. Furthermore, this dog has no "doggie" order and will generally be very clean.

The Alaskan Husky sheds minimally except for twice a year, when hair will literally come out in clumps. Brush once or twice a week most of the time, and at least daily or even twice-daily during heavy-shedding periods. Trim nails and clean ears as needed, and pay attention to oral hygiene, too. Your vet can recommend a doggie toothpaste that your pet will find palatable; in fact, your pet may actually enjoy having you brush its teeth.

References

Alaskan Husky. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaskan_Husky

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Alaskan Husky.

http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/alaskan-husky

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Alaskan Husky vs. Siberian Husky.

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/huskyalaskansiberian.htm

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Alaskan Husky.

http://www.easypetmd.com/doginfo/alaskan-husky

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All About the Breed: Alaskan Husky.

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