Siberian Husky vs Alaskan Malamute
Same postcard, different freight class. The Husky is a marathon runner with an escape plan; the Malamute is a freight truck that thinks it's a lapdog.
Side by side
| Siberian Husky | Alaskan Malamute | Verdict | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 3/5 | 5/5 | The Alaskan Malamute is bigger |
| Energy | 5/5 | 4/5 | The Siberian Husky has more energy |
| Shedding | 5/5 | 5/5 | Tie |
| Barking | 5/5 | 4/5 | The Siberian Husky barks more |
| Trainability | 2/5 | 2/5 | Tie |
| Kid-friendliness | 4/5 | 4/5 | Tie |
| Drooling | 2/5 | 3/5 | The Alaskan Malamute drools more |
| Life expectancy | 12–14 years | 10–14 years | The Siberian Husky lives longer |
Vet costs
Age 1, U.S.-average prices, $2,000 emergency savings.
Siberian Husky
- First-year expected vet cost: $739
- Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: $48/mo
- Top cost drivers: Underactive thyroid · Corneal dystrophy
- Expected lifetime vet cost: $15,345
Alaskan Malamute
- First-year expected vet cost: $861
- Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: $60/mo
- Top cost drivers: Underactive thyroid · Hip dysplasia
- Expected lifetime vet cost: $14,262
Lifetime totals include lifespan: the Siberian Husky is expected to live 12–14 years, the Alaskan Malamute 10–14 years.
In year one, the Siberian Husky is expected to cost about $122 less.
Statistical estimate, not a quote or insurance advice.
Choose the Siberian Husky if…
- You want a lighter dog you can physically handle on a leash
- You run or bike every day and want a partner who never quits
- Your fence is tall, deep and escape-proof
Choose the Alaskan Malamute if…
- You want the bigger, plusher bear version
- You can manage a very strong puller
- You want a 'woo-woo' talker that's a bit less of a nonstop howler
FAQ
Which is cheaper to insure?
In year one, the Siberian Husky is expected to cost about $122 less. Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: Siberian Husky $48, Alaskan Malamute $60. Statistical estimate, not a quote or insurance advice.
Which sheds more?
It's a tie on shedding. Shedding: Siberian Husky 5/5, Alaskan Malamute 5/5.
Which lives longer?
The Siberian Husky lives longer. Siberian Husky: 12–14 years; Alaskan Malamute: 10–14 years.
Which is better with kids?
It's a tie on kid-friendliness. Kid-friendliness: Siberian Husky 4/5, Alaskan Malamute 4/5.
Test-drive the Siberian Husky · Test-drive the Alaskan Malamute · Siberian Husky profile · Alaskan Malamute profile