Alaskan Husky

A born sled dog from the polar regions

The Alaskan Husky, although not officially recognized as a distinct breed, is known worldwide for its unbeatable endurance and speed as a sled dog. This mixed breed selected for its exceptional working ability has an interesting and unique background. Let's delve into the world of the Alaskan Husky, from its origins to its unique characteristics and what it takes to be an Alaskan Husky owner.

Origin

The Alaskan Husky is not an officially recognized breed, but rather a mixture of different dog breeds, selected primarily for their achievements in sled dog driving. This "breed" originates from Alaska, USA, where they were bred for centuries by indigenous peoples to pull sleds in the harsh arctic environment.

Traits and Temperament

The Alaskan Husky is a very active and energetic dog breed. Their roots as sled dogs have created a dog with a strong drive and endurance. They love to run and need lots of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They have a natural instinct to pull, which can lead to a strong desire to "follow their nose" during walks.

Alaskan Huskies are also very social dogs. They thrive best when they are part of the family's daily activities and like to be close to their human friends. They are known to be friendly and lovable, both towards people and other dogs. They also get along well with children.

In addition, Alaskan Huskies are highly intelligent and trainable. They learn quickly and respond well to positive reinforcement. But they can also be stubborn, so they need an owner who is consistent and patient with their training.

Despite their many positive qualities, Alaskan Huskies are not the right dog breed for everyone. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, and they can become destructive if bored. They also thrive best in cooler climates, and may have difficulty adapting to warm environments.

Size

The size of an Alaskan husky can vary, but generally the height at the withers for adult dogs is between 58 and 63 cm and they weigh between 18 and 27 kg. It is performance and working ability rather than specific physical characteristics that define an Alaskan Husky.

Appearance and Coat

The appearance of the Alaskan husky varies greatly, depending on its specific mix of breed heritage. Generally, however, they have an athletic body, erect ears and deep, intelligent eyes. The coat is double and thick, designed to withstand harsh weather and cold temperatures. The color can vary a lot.

How much fur does an Alaskan Husky shed?

As a breed adapted to cold climates, the Alaskan husky has a thick coat that sheds a lot, especially during the spring and fall when they go through an intensive shedding. Regular brushing is important to help manage shedding and keep the coat in top condition.

How much exercise does an Alaskan Husky need?

Alaskan Huskies are high energy dogs that need a lot of exercise. They thrive best on long runs or hikes, agility training, and of course dog sledding. An Alaskan Husky without sufficient exercise can become restless and develop unwanted behaviors.

Is the Alaskan Husky Family Friendly?

Alaskan huskies are often very friendly and good with children, making them excellent family dogs. However, they can be independent and somewhat stubborn, which requires an owner with some experience in dog training. Additionally, they should be socialized early to ensure they get along well with other animals.

Acquiring an Alaskan Husky

If you are considering getting an Alaskan Husky, it is important that you are ready for the commitment required. These dogs need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, and they do best in a home where they have plenty of room to move around. They can be difficult to have in apartments, as they can easily become restless. They are also known to be active and adventurous, so a secure fenced area is a necessity.

How many Alaskan Huskies are there in Sweden?

In Sweden, there are 2,411 registered Alaskan Huskies as of 2022-12-31.