Alusky

The Alusky is an energetic, playful crossbreed beloved by those who maintain active lifestyles. This is a cross between the driven Alaskan Husky and the similar, larger Alaskan Malamute. For active dog parents, this breed is sure to only keep growing loyal fans.

The Alusky’s parent breeds have similar history. Almost solely a working breed, the lesser-known Alaskan Husky boasts an energetic personality. Although rarely kept as a pet, that doesn’t mean they don’t make good companions. Similarly, the Alaskan Malamute has origins in sled-pulling and hunting. They’re much more common as companion animals today. Although both breeds are frequently mistaken for wolf hybrids, which they are not, their energy could convince one otherwise. 

Because the Alusky is a crossbreed, finding one up for adoption is not likely. Still, there are millions of dogs waiting for homes in shelters. When looking for a specific breed, make an effort to adopt from a shelter or rescue. It’s important to keep in mind how uncommon the Alusky is and how similar they may appear to other breeds. Shelters may not recognize them and simply list them as a Husky or Malamute mix.

Read on for a detailed list of characteristics of the Alusky.

Alaskan Husky and Alaskan Malamute Characteristics

Adaptability

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

All-around friendliness

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Health And Grooming Needs

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Trainability

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Exercise needs

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Alusky Highlights

Dog parents who love exercise and playful personalities may find the Alusky to be the perfect match.

The Alusky is typically easy to train and responsive to their dog parents. However, with such a high drive dog with endless energy, it’s important to make training consistent and positive.. Daily training sessions of around five to ten minutes help this breed keep on track. Additionally, basic obedience classes with a professional trainer can be helpful, especially in puppyhood.

The Alusky is loyal and intelligent, but not a good match for beginner dog parents. They can be strong-willed and hard to exercise properly, as even very fit individuals may struggle to keep up. Ideally, they love walks or hikes surpassing five miles daily. This isn’t reasonable for all dog parents, but without proper stimulation, the Alusky will grow bored and frustrated- regardless of how much love there is for them. Additionally, this breed easily develops separation anxiety. Dog parents who are frequently home or able to bring pups to work are a good match for this breed.

Alusky History

The Alusky is a mixed breed, so they don’t have history as their own breed. Both parent breeds, however, are well known and loved. The Alaskan Husky is a sporting breed originating, as their name suggests, from Alaska. They are powerful working dogs, bred for activities such as sledding, not for conformation in show. As such, they can have a wide variety of weights and coat appearances. The Alaskan Malamute descends from some of the first domesticated dogs, having begun development into a distinct breed over 4,000 years ago. They were once used for hunting large, powerful animals like seals and caribou. Today, their claim to fame is largely based on dog-sledding.

Alusky Size

The Alusky is a large sized mixed breed. They have no breed standard, so their coats may be found in a variation of colors. Alaskan Huskies can be found in almost any coloration and/or pattern, but are most often variations of brown, gray, or white with patches; the Alaskan Malamute is found in similar colors, but with wolf-like markings.

Alusky Personality

The Alusky is often good natured and loving, but also can be high energy and hyperactive. It’s crucial to work on socialization from a young age for this breed, as they need many opportunities to burn their energy off; reactivity to people or other dogs will limit them. Training them consistently when young will ultimately improve their quality of life (and yours) as an adult. It’s important to work on positive reinforcement training consistently and firmly, and to bring in a professional trainer if you feel that you’re starting to see behavioral issues.

Alusky Health

While if the Alusky originates from responsible breeders, they are often healthy, there are some genetic predispositions towards health issues to be aware of with this crossbreed. 

Hip Dysplasia

Elbow Dysplasia

Hypothyroidism

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Cataracts

Alusky Care

The Alusky, like most breeds, needs daily exercise to feel content. With that being said, their exercise requirements are much higher than most similar-sized breeds. Ideally, this breed should receive at least an hour to two-hour long walk daily – but that isn’t enough to tire them out entirely. Additionally, they enjoy indoor or outdoor play like fetch or tug-of-war, and a fenced backyard to burn off that energy is pretty much a must-have for the breed. It is almost impossible to keep this breed satisfied without a ‘job’ to do, such as agility, herding, or other outdoor work. The Alusky is not a good fit for apartment dwellers, as they easily become vocal due to their parent breeds, whether they’re discontent or just expressing themselves, and their boundless energy makes them unsuitable for small spaces.

Alusky Feeding

The Alusky should be fed a diet consistent with a large sized breed with high energy levels. They may enjoy seeking games such as hidden treats around the backyard in order to burn off some extra energy. Other food motivated tasks, like snuffle mats or filled toys, can help stimulate this breed’s active mind; they are often motivated by harder puzzle toys as well. Because all dogs are unique in their diet requirements, it’s best to consult your veterinarian to determine the best food to feed your pup.

Alusky Coat Color And Grooming

The Alusky’s coat requires regular maintenance. They have thick double coats contributed by both parent breeds. This was helpful when the breeds originated in cold environments, but it’s not as enjoyable in a household when they blow their coats. Brushing should be performed at least several times a week to reduce shedding and mats, and encourage cleanliness. During summer months, this grooming may need to increase. Bathing is to be done on an as-needed basis, rarely more than once a month. As with all dog breeds, be sure to check on nail maintenance.

Alusky Children And Other Pets

There are some factors to consider before adding the Alusky to your family. While this breed can be good with older children, they’re unlikely to be a good match for those with young children or plans to add to the family. While typically good-natured, their high energy means they might accidentally bowl over a young child; additionally, they are known to be mouthy. However, for dog-experienced older children, they can be a great match. These dogs typically get along well with other canine family members, provided they are within a reasonable size range match – they may play too roughly with smaller breeds. Due to the breed’s high prey drive, small animals and cats aren’t likely to be good matches. 

Alusky Rescue Groups

There are no breed specific rescues for the Alusky as they are a mixed breed. However, you can often find similar mixes of the Alaskan Husky or Alaskan Malamute. Additionally, similar breeds like the Siberian Husky or German Shepherd may be more widely available in local shelters. Whatever the circumstances, try opening your home to a rescue pup.