All About the Alaskan Husky

Alaskan Huskies are a type of sled dog that have been around for over one hundred years. Originating from native Alaskan populations, these dogs have been curated for dog sledding and racing over the last century. They are their own breed, not to be confused with Siberian Huskies or Alaskan Malamutes. They are often medium sized dogs (though their size can vary), with large snowshoe type paws with incredible endurance and speed. While there are many different lines of Alaskans, they are all bred to do one thing- PULL!

Genetic studies have shown that they are, in fact their own breed. In fact, sprint Alaskans and distance Alaskans can even be distinquished just by their DNA!

Contrary to popular believe, most dogs labeled as Alaskan Huskies are truly just that, Alaskan Huskies. No added Siberian Husky, no Alaskan Malamute, no Samoyed, etc. If you were to Google ‘Alaskan Husky’, there is quite a bit of incorrect information from folks who aren’t involved in the mushing scene.

Of course, there are lines where they are outcrossed with other breeds, but those breeders are generally pretty transparent about this. They would also test back as a mixed breed by a DNA test if the mix was in the last few generations.

Alaskan Huskies have their own unique genetic markers, similar to how a purebred dog would. This means that, in the genetic sense, Alaskan Huskies are their own breed. In fact, Embark can test for these markers and label dogs as such!

Of course, they aren’t recognized as purebred dogs by registries like the American Kennel Club, because unlike purebred dogs, Alaskan Huskies do allow outcrossing. Because of this, they are more often called a ‘landrace’ breed versus ‘purebred’. On top of this, because there is no set standard by a registry, Alaskans can have a large variety of colors, head shapes, sizes, and more.

Alaskan Huskies are purpose bred sled dogs. This means mushers are going to breed for what works best in harness, for their specific style of mushing. Sometimes this DOES mean mixing in other breeds. But again, generally speaking, these mushers are very open about what is in their lines. You may also see similar sled dogs such as Eurohounds and Greysters- these are often Alaska Huskies mixed with other breeds to create very fast, sprint type sled dogs!

The term ‘Alaskan Husky’ is often wrongly used by rescues or shelters who don’t know better, labeling Siberian Huskies or Husky mixes as Alaskan Huskies. But this is an incorrect use of the term, and these dogs should not be labeled as such.

So next time you see an Alaskan Husky, remember that it isn’t a Siberian Husky mix, or some random mutt. These guys work hard to be where they’re at!

A great article on their genetic makeup:

https://www.genome.gov/.../2010-news-features-the-alaskan...