Alusky Hybrid Dogs
Physical Description
As one of the true northern spitz dog types, the Alusky, a cross between an Alaskan Malamute and a Siberian Husky, is a highly athletic, highly loving hybrid dog. They inherit from both parent breeds the thick, dense, double coat and amazing natural stamina and endurance. They tend to be long legged, streamlined and longer than they are tall.
There are considerable size differences between the parent breeds and the Alusky can therefore have a wide weight range. Weights for mature females often range between 45 and 80 pounds and for males 45 to 90 pounds, however some may be larger. Shoulder measurements are also different between males and females with males topping out at up to 26 inches and females slightly less at up to 24 inches.
Coat colors range from pure white to pure black and all colors and patterns in between. Reds, silvers, grays, browns and blended coat colors, with or without white markings are common. The eyes may be brown or blue or a mixture of both colors. The head is very wolf-like in appearance with larger, erect triangular ears and a longer, tapered muzzle. The shoulders are wide and strong, with the chest deep and wide. The ribs are well sprung and the topline of the back is straight to sloping slightly towards the hips. The well-plumed tail is carried in a tight to looser curl over the back.
Temperament
The Alusky is a working dog by nature and needs to have something to do to feel happy and content. They are extremely sensitive to changes in the owner's tone of voice and should never be trained using anything other than positive training methods. Some many very easily become timid if spoken to harshly or punished inappropriately. Generally these dogs are dominant in their temperament but respond very well to an owner they see as the leader.
All northern breeds have a high prey drive and therefore the Alusky inherits this trait from both parents. They are not suitable for houses with smaller non-canine pets although if raised with cats they can make excellent companions. Males in particular may be highly dog-aggressive to other strange male dogs if not neutered. Generally both sexes do well with other companion dogs however they will typically assume the role of pack leader. Once the pack hierarchy has been established they will get along well together.
They are generally very good, loving dogs with older children and can do well if raised with younger kids. Children have to be taught not to tease or frighten these dogs as they have very long memories of any type of mistreatment, even in what the children see as games and fun.
Grooming and General Care
The dense, heavy coat of the Alusky is easy to care for except in the spring and fall shed. At this time daily grooming is required as the inner coat will completely be blown, resulting in huge amounts of hair loss. During the rest of the year the coat stays very clean and tangle free on its own with just once a week grooming. Do not bathe these dogs unless necessary as regular bathing will damage the coat and can lead to skin rashes.
A very healthy canine hybrid, the Alusky has few health problems other than those commonly seen in all larger breeds. Hip dysplasia can be an issue so ensure that both parents have been checked. Although these dogs do well in a house they absolutely need several hours a day outdoors in a well-fenced yard. They do dig and will jump huge distances so appropriate secure fencing is a must. This breed is not recommended for apartments or small living spaces. They are not typically problem barkers but will howl, making it challenging to keep them in urban areas.
Alusky dogs need long, intense exercise periods each and every day, regardless of the weather. Their dense, heavy coat makes them unsuitable for very hot and humid climates, however they can tolerate moderate and cold climates with ease.
Clubs and Registries: ACHC, DRA, ICA, UABR, APRI, CKC
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