Alusky

Alusky is a hybrid of two arctic dog breeds, the Siberian Husky and the Alaskan Malamute. It is a designer breed and, as such, it results from the combination of both its parents’ personality and physical traits. Aluskies are vigorous, social, and friendly dogs, also known for their stamina and energetic nature.

Aluskies make good family dogs and they get along well with children. They need space and preferably a fenced yard to play. They are working dogs from the arctic regions and they were used for sledding, carting, hauling freight, and racing. They also make good search and rescue dogs.

About & History

The date of origin of this crossbreed is unknown and not much is known about the history of Aluskies either. Still, they are a unique crossbreed that results from mixing Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes, two dog breeds with a rich history. The Siberian Husky originates from Siberia in the 19th century, while the Alaskan Malamute was first recognised as a breed by the American Kennel Club in 1935. The Alusky originates from the United States and exhibits traits from both its parents, distinguishing itself from a mongrel. Its wolf-like appearance, with its majestic coat and sturdy looks, gives it a unique identity.

Aluskies were originally bred to be working dogs, pulling sleds over long distances, hunting seals and polar bears in cold climates. Aluskies are, therefore, the result of both their parents’ strength and resilience. This crossbreed is recognised by the American Canine Hybrid Club, the Designer Breed Registry, the Designer Dogs Kennel Club, the Dog Registry of America Inc., and the International Designer Canine Registry.

Appearance

This eye-catching crossbreed is easily identified by its thick and dense coat, fluffy tails, and overall wolf-like appearance. The most common coat colours are:

Aluskies have soulful, almond-shaped eyes, which can be brown or blue, resembling their parents’. Their ears are upright and wedge-shaped. Their muzzle is broad and dark, and their legs muscular. Their tails are heavily furred and their overall appearance is compact and long. Aluskies may resemble one or the other parent more. They weigh around 27 to 45 Kg (60-100 lb) and are 66 to 71 cm (26-28 inches) tall.

Character & Temperament

The Alusky is a very social dog, getting along quite well with someone they have just met. Similarly, they are good with children. Playful and energetic, the Alusky is a smart and friendly dog, who is eager to please and likewise acts in a charming and loving manner. Aluskies are loyal dogs, but, just like their parents, they are wanderers, so attention should be paid regarding unfenced yards or gardens, as they tend to roam around and get lost.

Despite their social nature, they are generally quiet dogs, and they do not mind being around lots of noise and activity. They have a “pack” mentality, making it essential for owners to adopt the pack leader role, so their relationship can run smoothly. Aluskies can sometimes be somewhat independent in their way of thinking. They can become stubborn, headstrong, and a little temperamental. They are also known for their good memory, which can make it difficult for them to forget unpleasant situations or harsh treatment towards undesired behaviour. They are also very sensitive and intuitive and have a strong instinct. This may result in Aluskies chasing small pets they may consider preys, so it is extremely important to socialise them from an early age and teach them the boundaries regarding other pets, especially those that can be mistaken for small prey (i.e., cats, rabbits, small mammals).

Aluskies do not make good watch dogs, due to their ability to get along well with strangers. Also, they rarely bark. They do, however, have a tendency to howl, which is related to their “pack” instinct. This tendency should be taken into account if one is to own an Alusky in a densely populated area or building. Aluskies like humans and enjoy their company, so despite being important to provide them with outdoor space, they do prefer to sleep indoors, next to their people. Also, they may suffer from being alone for extended periods of time. When alone for a long time, they may become destructive, due to boredom. They need plenty of attention and need to be included in the family’s activities.

Aluskies have stamina and endurance. They are energetic and need an outlet for all their energy, both physical and mental. Games and canine sports, especially those that most resemble their original purpose, such as sledding or racing, are a good idea. They will also be happier if they have access to a fenced yard and an area where they can dig freely (a sand box, for example).

Trainability

Because Aluskies are eager to please their owners, they are not very difficult to train. However, they can be quite stubborn and independent thinkers, so they are generally not recommended for first-time dog owners, as they require a firm, or otherwise experienced attitude. Owners should make sure they are the pack leader, at the same time being positive, patient, and reinforcing their good behaviour, as they are sensitive to punishment.

Also, because they have a good memory, they do not tolerate negative reinforcement and may become resentful. Consistency and positive reinforcement are the key to successfully training an Alusky. They should be socialised and trained from an early age, and basic obedience training is also encouraged.

Health

Aluskies have good general health, as both their parents are hard and healthy breeds. Their lifespan is also generally reasonable – they may live up to 15 years. Some of the most common health problems they may have are:

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a hereditary disease, complex in its nature and causes. It may affect both Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies, thus it may pass on to Aluskies, too. It is the consequence of an abnormally formed hip joint that does not perform its function properly, thus leading to inflammation, and, consequently, to pain and lameness. The condition may be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, adequate diet, and physical therapy.

Eye Problems

Cataracts are an example of eye problems that may come up in Aluskies. Cataracts imply opacity of the lens, which can be small and localised, not affecting its vision, or it may progress and affect the entire lens. When this happens, the dog may have blurred vision or become completely blind.

The first sign is usually the dog starting to bump into objects and furniture around the house, which means its vision is becoming defective. Treatment is achieved surgically and it is very effective.

Ear Infections

Just like their parents, Aluskies may have a tendency for ear problems, due to their heavily dense fur that extends across their whole body, including their ears. Because air circulation may be reduced due to excess fur around their ears, accumulation of dirt and moisture may occur, which is often the first step towards creating a bacteria-friendly environment.

Exercise and Activity Levels

The Alusky is an athletic and agile crossbreed. It may be prone to weight gain and obesity if it does not get the exercise it needs to keep fit. Aluskies like to run, dig, and interact with other dogs. They are good companions for families who spend time outdoors and like to jog, walk, or hike. Besides physical exercise, it is important to provide these dogs with mental stimulation and toys are a good way of keeping them entertained, preventing them from getting bored and engaging in destructive behaviours.

Aluskies originate from very cold climates and are extremely sensitive to high temperatures due to their fluffy and dense double coat. An Alusky running wild in a hot summer day is not unseen but it is also very irresponsible ownership. Aluskies are best-suited for cold climates and they suffer a lot from heat exposure. At home, a fenced yard and access to a digging area are ideal.

Grooming

Aluskies shed a lot, all year round, but even more seasonally. They should be brushed a few times a week (daily during seasonal shedding) to keep their fur looking good and healthy. Besides brushing, the occasional bath whenever needed and cleaning their ears regularly to prevent ear infections comprise the Alusky’s grooming essentials.