Husky Malamute Mix: Is the Alusky a good family pet?

Last Updated on April 26, 2023

Nicknamed as Alusky, the Husky Malamute mix is the crossbreed for people who want a large, fluffy snuggle buddy but can’t decide between two Arctic dogs.

They’re brilliant canines that make excellent family pets, which makes them A+ students when learning commands and trying new activities.

All of this sounds too good to be true, but read on to find out if it’s the dog for you!

What is an Alusky dog?

This mix is a cross between the Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky. They’re always mistaken as one breed because of their similarities, but there are differences between the two.

Now, their hybrid offspring is one of the popular additions to the designer dog world.

Husky Malamute mixes are relatively new on the scene, but what’s known is that they’re bred for sledding, hauling, racing, carting, and search-and-rescue work.

Some say they originated in the US, but we can find out more about this mixed breed by learning a few things regarding its parents.

The powerful Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamutes hail from ancient times in Alaska. They were originally bred for strength and power to haul heavy sleds across the ice.

With powerful shoulders and a deep chest, they look as strong as they are.

Today, they rank 58th in American Kennel Club’s (AKC) breed popularity and are part of the Working Group.

Also known as Mals, this breed has a perfectly mixed personality. They’re very protective of their families, making them excellent guardian dogs, but they are also gentle and friendly.

They’re known to be super playful despite their stern exterior look.

This large breed weighs 75 to 85 pounds (34 to 39 kg) and stands about 23 to 25 inches (58 to 63.5 cm) in height.

The gorgeous and playful Siberian Husky

Siberian Huskies are stunning canines that come from Siberia and are also an ancient breed. They’re slightly smaller than the Malamute, weighing 35 to 60 pounds (16 to 27 kg) and standing 20 to 23.5 inches (51 to 60 cm) tall.

They were used for endurance and speed in transporting goods through large expanses of ice.

Breeders of Huskies wanted to create a dog that was both a companion and a sled-racer. They’re now a well-known ice-pup that ranks 14th in AKC’s most popular dog breed list.

They’re also adored for their goofy personalities, as well as having an outgoing and loyal nature.

Let’s not forget the Husky’s staple – their stunning blue-eyed stare. This trait alone creates amazing crossbreeds like the Horgi and Pomsky.

What does a Husky Malamute mix look like?

Just like its parents, the Alusky’s wolf-like features are sure to take your breath away. They typically have wedge-shaped, upright ears on top of their broadhead.

They have almond-shaped eyes that are soulful and can have amber, bright blue, black, or brown color. Some have a different color in each eye.

At the tip of their long muzzle is a black or brown nose. On the other end of their compact body is a heavily furred tail. Their large gait and strong shoulders make them almost as intimidating as an actual wolf!

Even though famous clubs like the AKC don’t recognize crossbreeds like the Alusky, some organizations recognize hybrids such as the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR), Designer Breed Registry (DBR), Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA), Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC), and American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC).

How big will a Husky Malamute mix get?

A full-grown Siberian Husky Alaskan Malamute mix can reach a height of 20 to 28 inches (51 to 71 cm) and a weight of 45 to 75 pounds (20 to 34 kg). Some can be as heavy as 100 pounds (45 kg).

Medium- to giant-sized dogs like these shouldn’t be placed in a crowded place like an apartment.

They need a larger-than-average home with a secured outdoor space that they can access anytime to play or roam.

Coat & Color: Expect a fluffy and double-coated pooch

This dog’s thick, dense, double coat is water and ice-resistant. Their fur helps them keep warm in harsh winter conditions, especially since both parent breeds come from places with the coldest climates.

Malamutes and Huskies have similar colors and markings. So their hybrid offspring can be found in white, silver, sable, gray, brown, light brown, golden, cream, salt and pepper, and sometimes a little blue or red thrown in the mix.

Facial masks and eye patches are possible features that a Malamute Husky mix can inherit.

Wondering if the Alusky is hypoallergenic? They’re not. They’re moderate shedders all-year-round, and they’ll shed more during fall and spring.

An excellent family pet with a goofy and loyal personality

The Husky Malamute mix is a devoted companion and a great watchdog – thanks to the Husky’s vocalness and the Mal’s guarding capabilities.

Generally, they’re well-balanced, affectionate, and polite dogs, which means they’re also great with children and other pets. Just supervise play to avoid accidents when everyone’s having too much fun.

It may be possible for the Alusky to have a protective streak. You shouldn’t worry that much, though, because they can be social with visitors that their master welcomes into their home.

They’re just naturally suspicious, which is excellent quality for any breed.

Speaking of getting along with everyone, the Alaskan Malamute & Siberian Husky cross is a highly intelligent fido that demands constant attention and plays.

Having a furry companion will be nice, but they require an owner who can spend a lot of time with them and provide early socialization and training – obedience, crate, potty.

During the first six months of their life, they should learn basic house rules and commands. But be gentle while being firm.

They’re also highly sensitive, so positive reinforcement is vital. Dogs with a “pack background” crave an alpha leader. If you don’t establish that you’re the boss, it can lead to undesirable behaviors, such as chewing.

Novice owners may find this mixed breed challenging to train, as well. Clever dogs tend to be stubborn, which is a concern more prevalent in males than females.

Remember when we recommended this canine to a home with a secured backyard?

Aside from being active and having a tendency to dig, both the Husky and Malamute are known for jumping really high. They can escape 6-foot fences, mostly due to boredom.

Do Husky Malamutes like to cuddle?

There will be a time that they’ll do – right after a busy day or work and play.

Breeds who have lots of energy can quickly become bored, so if you could provide the physical and mental stimulation they need every day, expect a happy fur baby cuddling you every night.

Don’t be surprised when you’re getting ready for bed and your canine friend howls. Thanks to their wolf ancestry, they tend to do that a lot. If this isn’t an issue with you, it might be for the neighbors.

Owning & caring for an Alaskan Malamute Husky mix

One of the main things to consider before getting this designer dog is your location.

Yes, the Alusky can live in countries or states that are constantly hot, but it doesn’t mean that this crossbreed will be comfortable in that living situation. That brings us to time spent outdoors.

Exercise: Be ready to get off the couch

Husky Malamute mixes are active dogs that require 60 to 90 minutes of exercise daily. If you think you can consume all that time with just a walk around the neighborhood, think again.

Smart breeds wouldn’t enjoy doing the same thing over and over. Mix up activities by including hiking, jogging, swimming, agility courses, and fetch on the agenda.

Doggy daycare is an excellent choice if you need to live your fido for an hour or two, which helps her get the exercise and socialization she needs.

Once you’re home and your pet still seems like she couldn’t settle down yet, we recommend giving your Alaskan Malamute-Husky mix some brain games, like puzzle toys, to keep her entertained.

If you’re looking to satisfy your dog’s need to dig, some owners create a sandbox outside. Check out this video of Gohan the Husky having so much fun! You can make one for your Alusky, too.

Since they’re sensitive to heat and humidity, limit the amount of outdoor playtime during summer months.

Husky Malamutes are prone to obesity if not exercised enough, so make sure you have the time to give your pup what he needs.

The dog food you should feed your Alusky

Malamute Husky mixes will need 3 to 5 cups of dry kibbles divided into two meals a day. Ensure your pup is getting proper nutrition by giving a diet based on her weight, age, metabolism, and health.

Go for a recipe designed for large and giant breeds that will help control rapid bone growth. They’re also prone to obesity, so stick to a feeding routine and avoid giving table scraps.

One of the advantages of dry dog food is maintaining a dog’s teeth and gums clean and strong. You can add healthy dental treats as your pet’s daily snack, too.

Grooming: Is the Alusky dog high maintenance?

With all that fur, a Husky Malamute mix is a moderate to high maintenance breed. They need to be brushed two to three times a week with a slicker brush over a pin brush to keep tangles and dirt at bay.

When the seasons are changing, and they’re blowing their coats, it’s best to use a deshedder daily to minimize shedding.

If your pooch is often uncomfortable whenever a comb or brush touches her fur, desensitization training is the answer.

Like the Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute, the Alusky is a relatively clean dog because it inherited its parents’ good hygiene habits. That means you can give your fur baby a bath every 6 to 8 weeks.

There’s no need for overwashing as it will only damage her coat’s natural oils.

Use an anti-shed shampoo and conditioner that contains aloe, oatmeal, and neutral pH.

Ears should be checked and cleaned weekly, especially since the Husky Malamute mix is prone to wax build-up. Only use a dog-specific ear solution and cotton balls, never Q-tips.

Don’t forget oral hygiene! Brush your pet’s teeth at least once a week and trim nails when you hear it clicking against the floor.

If you live somewhere warm and your Alusky has cracked paws, Vaseline is a simple yet effective regimen.

Health problems a Husky Malamute mix can have

The Siberian Husky & Alaskan Malamute cross is a relatively healthy breed with a lifespan of 10 to 14 years, but some enjoy a life expectancy of up to 15 years.

Unfortunately, all breeds can suffer from different illnesses, whether it’s a purebred or a crossbreed. Most of the time, it can be inherited from its parents.

It would be best if you watched out for health issues like hip dysplasia, chondrodysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, polyneuropathy, Von Willebrand’s Disease, and eye conditions like Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA).

This doesn’t mean that your Husky Malamute mix will get all these diseases. Others say that designer dogs are healthier than purebreds due to diverse gene pools.

We know that you’ll take care and provide everything your dog will need – a healthy diet, exercise, but a significant impact on how long you and your pup can enjoy each other’s company will depend on where they come from.

Buying: How much is a Husky Malamute mix puppy?

Husky Malamute mixes are quite rare, which is a factor for their price to go up, aside from the pup’s availability, the breeder’s location, and the kennels’ popularity. An Alusky puppy can cost about $1,000.

And don’t forget to take additional annual expenses, both medical ($400 to $500) and non-medical such as food, crates, leashes, and toys ($300 to $500) into account, plus more for training and grooming expenses.

Husky Malamute mix breeders

When searching for Alusky puppies for sale online, make sure you conduct thorough research and ask puppy sellers questions about their process, such as offering health guarantees for their pups.

The answer from a reputable breeder will always be yes.

Another thing to look out for is whether or not they’re willing to introduce you to mom and dad, or even have you visit the kennel.

Responsible breeders that care for their dogs are transparent because they want to make sure that the pups will go home with the right people.

They will want to get to know potential buyers and conduct interviews before giving away a puppy.

Ready to start your search? Northern Glories (Lyons, MI) have available Husky Malamute mix puppies and adults for sale. If you’re mostly on Facebook, check out the Alaskan Malamutes of Ice Age Kennel’s page at @iceagemals if they’re selling this crossbreed.

Finding an Alusky for adoption

One of the best options when looking for a dog, especially mixed breeds, is by adopting.

Aside from checking with the local shelters near you, specific rescue organizations for Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes are great places to look at because they cater to their mixes, as well.

Browse the Husky or Malamute mixes these websites offer, and you might find an Alusky:

• Howling Woods Farm (Jackson, NJ) 
• WAMAL (Spokane, WA)
• Free Spirit Siberian Rescue (Harvard, IL)

Other stunning Siberian Husky mixes

Whether you feel like the Husky Malamute mix isn’t for you, or you’re just curious what other designer dogs were created using Siberian Huskies, here’s a list of those crossbreeds:

German Shepherd Husky mix (AKA Gerberian Shepsky)

Husky Lab mix (AKA Huskador)

Pitbull Husky mix (AKA Pitsky)

Golden Retriever Husky mix (AKA Goberian)

Don’t miss: 23 Malamute mixes: Which one is the best crossbreed for you?

The Husky Malamute mix is a winter-dream pup

Have you always wanted to own a docile pet wolf? Then the Alusky may be the closest you can get. They’re gorgeous fluff-balls and active companions.

They also have amazing personalities – loyal, goofy guard dogs with love to give, and perfect for families with children and other pets.

If you live somewhere where it’s often cold, you’re not allergic to pet hair, plus you and your neighbors wouldn’t mind a howling doggo, then owning this fido wouldn’t be an issue.

Do you feel like you’ve got what it takes to care for a Husky Malamute mix? Let us know about it by leaving a comment below.

Reference

• https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/dog-health-issues-do-mixed-breed-dogs-have-advantage-over-purebred-dogs