Alaskan Dog Breeds

Alaskan dogs are trademarked by their tapering head, pointy ears, curled tail, muscular build, and water-resistant coats, perfectly suited for the harsh climate. Their hardy and energetic nature made them efficient sled dogs since time immemorial.

Archaeological evidence shows that the Inuit communities in Alaska used dogs to pull sleds across the snowy landscape as early as 1000 AD. Dog sledding still prevails in some rural areas but has evolved more as a sport than a necessity. The Iditarod is a famous sled dog race in Alaska held annually in March.

List of Alaskan Breeds of Dogs

• Alaskan Malamute (Big dog)
• Alaskan Husky (a cross of the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, Greenland dog, Samoyed)
• Alaskan Klee Kai (Small dog)

The Alaskan Klee Kai and Alaskan Malamute are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, the Alaskan Husky isn’t AKC-recognized; it doesn’t have an official breed standard either. Besides being hardy working dogs, all Alaskan breeds are loving companions. If planning to keep them as pets, do proper research since they have high exercise requirements and cannot thrive in warm weather.

Interesting Facts

• Contrary to its name, the Alaskan Noble Companion Dog is not from Alaska but an outcome of crossing breeds like the Alaskan Malamute, Alaskan Husky, Labrador Retriever, and German Shepherd.
• The Alaskan Malamute has been Alaska’s state dog since 2010.