Last Updated on September 27, 2021 by Marco
What dog breeds are similar to huskies? In this article, we will explore dogs that look like the Siberian husky. There are several dog breeds that look like huskies. Read on to learn about five dog breeds that are similar to the husky in terms of looks, and in some cases, personality.
Each of these then dog breeds are what are known as ‘spitz-type’ dog breeds. ‘Spitz’ is German for ‘pointed’, which is a reference to the ear shape that each of these breeds have. They all have a wolf-like appearance, including a thick coat, a bushy tail, and almond-shaped eyes. They are known for their intelligence and their affectionate nature, as well as their independent spirit.
Alaskan Klee Klai
Intelligent, vigilant, and loyal, the Alaskan Klee Klai looks like a smaller version of the husky (and they come in three different sizes.) The American Kennel Club describes this little hound as a companion dog that is alert, energetic, curious, and somewhat reserved when around unfamiliar people and places.
This spitz-type breed was developed in the 20th century, and their name is Inuit for ‘small dog’. And whilst they may look like a husky, they were not bred as working dogs (although they do need lots of exercise like a husky.) These dogs are happiest at home with their human family, showering them with affection.
Alaskan Malamute
This dog breed is like a husky in general appearance; the main difference is their size.
The Alaskan Malamute is recognized by the American Kennel Club as a spitz-type breed. They are considered ‘heavy-duty’ working dogs, due to their immense strength. They have a bushy tail and pointed ears, just like the husky.
Malamutes stand 23 to 25 inches at the shoulder and weigh in at 75 to 85 pounds. They have heavy bones, a deep chest, and the same coat type as the husky – thick and waterproof.
This breed is a pack animal and they love to be with their family. At home, these dogs are playful, dignified, and loyal.
Learn more about: What Type Of Huskies Are There?
American Eskimo Dog
The American Kennel Club describes this beautiful-looking dog as a combination of striking good looks with a quick, clever mind; a total package.
They are described as being not shy, not aggressive, alert, friendly, and a little bit reserved when meeting new people and dogs.
This breed comes in three sizes, standard, mini, and toy, and therefore can be anywhere between 9 and 19 inches at the shoulder.
The American Eskimo Dog has an all-white coat which is thick and ruffed around the neck. Their eyes and nose are black, and they appear to ‘smile’. Like all of the other dogs in this category, the thick plumed tail curls over their back. Their gait is agile and bold.
These dogs are said to be good around children, and love family life. If they do not get the time and attention they need they can develop some behavioral issues.
Unlike huskies, they are highly trainable and easy to please.
Norwegian Elkhound
Another spitz-type breed similar to the husky is the Norwegian Elkhound. This breed is stunning to look at, with a thick silvery-gray coat and black muzzle. This is a very old European breed, with its origins dating back to the Viking era.
This breed is compact, standing around 20 inches at the shoulder. They have the same curling tail as the Alaskan Malamute, and a deep chest built for work. They too have pointed ears. Like the husky, the Norwegian Elkhound needs a lot of brushing.
The Norwegian Elkhound is alert, steadfast, loyal and dignified, eager when it comes to agility and herding work, and intelligent when it comes to watchdog duties. Like huskies, this breed can be sensitive yet independent!
Samoyed
Samoyeds stand from 19 to 23 inches at the shoulder. They are strong dogs with boundless energy to work. Yet their movements are graceful. Their coat is thick like the husky, but it is all white.
Another smiling breed, apparently they were purposely bred with an upturned mouth to stop the dogs from drooling, which would turn into icicles!
Like some of the other dogs on this list, the Samoyed is not a dog suited to being alone. Otherwise, they will be destructive and unhappy. These dogs love attention, and love to be cheeky. They do need a firm hand when it comes to training.
This dog was originally bred to pull a sled, just like the husky. And also like the husky is the Samoyeds vocal ways – this is not a quiet dog. Samoyeds love to bark, and they have a high-pitched, piercing voice!
Tamaskan
This dog looks very much like a wolf, and it was selectively bred with that in mind. They have been bred using a few different spitz-type breeds.
The Tamaskan is a new breed of dogs, so they are still quite rare. They were developed from husky, German Shepherd, and Alaskan Malamute lines in the 1980s. These dogs may look like wolves but they are very much a dog on the inside. They are described as being smart and versatile and suited to both sport and work.
They do need lots of exercise and mental stimulation, so are best left to experienced dog owners (much like the husky.) They are around the same size as a German Shepherd.
In Summary:
Huskies are a spitz-type breed. Similar breeds in terms of appearance are the larger Alaskan Malamute and Tamaskan, the smaller Alaskan Klee Klai and American Eskimo Dog, and the Samoyed, which is of a similar size to the husky.
Whilst they may have some similarities with regards to appearance, such as pointed ears, thick coats, and bushy tails, they may not have the same personality given that some of these breeds (the Eskimo Dog and the Klee Klai) were bred as companion dogs, not working dogs.
If you do like the way these dogs look, the decision is yours as to which one suits you and your situation best, and whether you want a working dog or a companion dog, and whether you want a big dog or a smaller dog.
Read more about: Is A Wooly Husky A Siberian Husky?
