Alaskan Dog Breeds likely bring to mind images of huskies pulling a sled over icy tundra, or perhaps even sled races or the Iditarod. However, most canines from colder climates are classified as Spitz Dogs.
They are a special breed of canine known for their toughness and resilience. They are bred in Alaska to be able to withstand extreme weather conditions and make great working dogs.
Alaskan dogs come in many different shapes and sizes, but they all share the same character traits that make them unique. If you are thinking about getting one, here is some information to help you better understand these fantastic animals.
The History of the Alaskan Dog
Alaskan dogs have a long and varied history. The Inuit people originally used these sturdy, versatile dogs for hunting and transportation.
Later, they were brought to the United States by Gold Rush prospectors and used as sled dogs. Today, these canines are popular pets and working dogs. So let’s take a closer look at the history of these fascinating canines.
The Early History of Alaskan Dogs
These dogs have been around for centuries. They were originally bred and used by the Inuit people of Alaska, Canada, and Greenland. The Inuit people relied on these canines for transportation, hunting, and herding reindeer.
Due to the harsh Arctic climate, these cold-weather dogs are built for endurance. In addition, they have a double coat of fur that protects them against cold weather, ice, and snow.
The arrival of Europeans in the 1800s brought changes to Alaskan canines. During the Gold Rush, prospectors from around the world flocked to Alaska in search of gold. Many of these prospectors brought their own sled dogs with them.
Some of these dogs were mixed with the native Alaskan population, resulting in a new type of dog known as the “Alaskan husky.”These unique dogs were stronger and more resistant to disease than their purebred counterparts. They were also better able to withstand the harsh climate and terrain of Alaska.
The Modern History of Alaskan Canines
Today, Alaskan dogs are popular pets and working dogs. In addition, they often use them as sled dogs in racing events such as the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.
Alaskan huskies are also commonly used as service, assistance, and therapy animals due to their friendly dispositions and trainability. In addition, these versatile canines make great companions for active people who enjoy spending time outdoors.
Alaskan Dog Breed Characteristics
Alaskan dog breeds are some of the most unique in the world. Yet, these dogs share many similar physical features, including a tapered head, sharply pointed ears, and a curled tail.
They also have a water-resistant coat that helps protect them from the harsh weather conditions in Alaska. In addition to their unique physical features, Alaskan dog breeds also have a muscular build that allows them to pull heavy loads for long periods.
Alaskan Canine Breeds
There are many different breeds of Alaskan canines, and each species has unique characteristics and personality traits that make it a great pet or working dog. If you are considering getting an Alaskan dog, here is more information about some of the most popular breeds.
1) Alaskan Husky
The Alaskan Husky is a cross between the Siberian Husky and other working dog breeds. They were initially bred in Alaska and are now popular as companion animals. However, no two Alaskan Huskies are exactly alike. That’s because this breed is not a purebred or a dog that is of one recognized breed. Instead, Alaskan Huskies are mixed, or what some people might call a mutt.
They typically weigh between 35 and 60 pounds and stand 20 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Alaskan Huskies are popular in cold climates because their fur coats keep them warm.
Huskies are bred for sledding and are considered to be some of the most versatile dogs in the world. They can pull heavy loads in challenging conditions and have a natural aptitude for sledding.
They are also excellent dogs for running and biking with, as they have superb endurance. Huskies are typically very well-mannered with children, although they can be rowdy when playing. They are also very intelligent and easy to train.
Huskies are known for being very friendly, outgoing, and good with children. However, they also have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercise.
If you’re looking for an Alaskan dog that is small to medium in size and has a lot of personality, then a husky might be right for you!
2) Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a timeless breed that dates back 4,500 years ago to the Arctic region. The Malemiut Inupiaq people in Norton Sound, Alaska, originally bred these powerful dogs. The Malamute served as search and rescue dogs in Greenland during World War ll.
The Alaskan Malamute is another one of the popular sled dog breeds that originate from Alaska. They are similar to Huskies in many ways, but they are usually larger and have a thicker fur coat.
Malamutes are large dogs weighing 75-100 pounds and can be anywhere from 24 to 27 inches high.
Although they look Intimidating, Malamutes are gentle souls that want affection. They’re pack animals by nature and therefore do best in close family units.
3) Alaskan Klee Kai
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a new type of dog. The name Klee Kai derived from the Athabaskan words for “little dog.” Alaskan native Linda Spurlin developed the dog breed during the 1970s using Alaskan Huskies, Siberian Huskies, and the American Eskimo Dog.
They are bred to be companions for humans rather than working dogs, so they are smaller than most other Alaskan breeds. In addition, they come in three different sizes (miniature, toy, and standard), so you can choose the size that best fits your home and lifestyle.
Klee Kais are intelligent dogs that bond closely with their human families. If you’re looking for a small to medium sized dog that will be a loyal companion, an Alaskan Klee Kai might be the perfect breed for you.
4) American Eskimo Dog
These dogs are some of the world’s oldest and most versatile dog breeds. They were initially bred for sledding but could also be trained for hunting, herding, and other work. Some Eskimo dogs even compete in agility trials and obedience competitions.
The American Eskimo Dog is a breed of companion dog that originated in Germany. They are considered an ancient dog breed due to their recent admixture with wolves, which is why they make good guard dogs.
With a beautiful white coat and striking black eyes, the American Eskimo Dog–often called simply “Eskie” by admirers–is certainly a dog to be admired. Though their sweet expressions may make them appear inviting, do note that they were originally bred as working dogs!
If you’re looking for a Nordic dog breed that is both beautiful and intelligent, then the Eskimo Dog might be the perfect breed for you!
5) Alusky
Aluskys(also called Siberian Husky) are a cross between an Alaskan malamute and a Siberian husky. They inherit the best qualities of both breeds—they are loyal and friendly like malamutes and playful and energetic like huskies. Aluskys make great family pets and do well with children.
Siberian Huskies were initially bred as working dogs in cold climates. As a result, they have a thick double coat of fur that helps protect them from the cold weather. They also have erect triangular ears and distinctive markings.
Alaskan Malamutes are similar in appearance to Huskies but larger. Both breeds make great family pets. Aluskys tend to be loyal and friendly like Malamutes and playful and energetic like Huskies.
If you are looking for a loyal and loving family pet, an Alusky may be the perfect dog for you!
6) Samoyed
The Samoyed is a medium-sized herding dog breed that takes its name from the Samoyedic peoples of Siberia. The breed descended from the Nenets Herding Laika and was domesticated for the purposes of herding, hunting, protection, and sled-pulling.
Samoyeds are squarely built, with thick, double-layer coats that are white in color. The coat is one of the most distinctive features of the Samoyed, and it’s also one of the most high-maintenance. The coat must be brushed several times a week, and it sheds heavily twice a year.
Samoyeds are a Spitz-type breed, which means they share certain physical traits with other Spitz breeds like Akitas and Shiba Inus. These include a curled tail, pricked ears, and a broad head.
One of the most distinctive features of Samoyeds is their smile, which is created by the way their lips curl up at the corners. This is affectionately known as the “Sammie Smile.”
Another unique trait of Samoyeds is their dark pigment, which can be found on their noses, eyes, and lips. This gives them a striking appearance that sets them apart from other white-coated breeds.
They weigh between 35 and 65 pounds and stand 20 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. Samoyeds are known for being very friendly, gentle, and good with children.
They also have a lot of energy but do not require as much exercise as huskies or malamutes. So if you’re looking for an Alaskan dog that is medium in size and not too high energy, then a Samoyed might be right for you!
Other Dogs That Can Tolerate Cold Weather
There are many other breeds of dogs that come from colder climates. While not typically considered “Alaskan,” these breeds can withstand freezing temperatures due to their thick fur coats.
- Chow Chow
- Akita Inu
- Greenland Dog
Conclusion
If you live in a colder climate and are thinking about getting a furry friend, then an Alaskán dog might be perfect! There are several different breeds of Alaskán dogs, all of whom are bred for their ability to withstand cold weather, thanks to their thick fur coats.
Depending on what you’re looking for in terms of size and activity level, there is sure to be an Alaskán breed that is perfect for you!
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