Alaskan Dog Breed Facts

Alaskan dog breeds are known for their strength, endurance, and thick coats that help them thrive in cold climates. These dogs have historically served as sled pullers, hunters, and loyal companions.

These breeds are not only beautiful and hardworking but also deeply connected to the history and survival of Arctic communities. Whether you're looking for a loyal companion or a working dog, Alaskan breeds offer a unique blend of strength and affection.

Below are twelve notable Alaskan breeds, including purebreds and hybrids:

Malamute

Large and muscular with a thick double coat, Malamutes are one of the oldest Arctic sled dog breeds. They were bred by the Mahlemiut Inuit people to haul heavy loads over long distances. Friendly, loyal, and athletic, they are the official state dog of Alaska.
Husky

Not a formal breed but a type bred for sled racing, Alaskan Huskies are medium-sized, fast, and highly energetic. They’re a mix of Siberian Husky, Greyhound, and other breeds, optimized for stamina and teamwork.
Klee Kai

A miniature version of the Husky, Klee Kais are intelligent, alert, and loyal. Developed in the 1970s, they make excellent companions and watchdogs. Their name means “small dog” in an Eskimo dialect.
Malador

A hybrid of Malamute and Labrador Retriever, Maladors are friendly, trainable, and energetic. They have a dense coat and are great with children and other pets.
Chinook

Originally bred in the early 1900s for sledding, Chinooks are calm, affectionate, and intelligent. They excel in obedience, agility, and search-and-rescue work. The breed name comes from the Native American word for “warm wind”
Alusky

A cross between Alaskan Husky and Malamute, Aluskies are playful, loyal, and known for their howling. They inherit speed and strength from both parents and require regular exercise.
Malamoodle

This hybrid of Malamute and Standard Poodle is affectionate, intelligent, and great for families. While they shed more than typical Doodles, they’re easy to train and love being around kids.
Samoyed

Fluffy, friendly, and resilient, the Samoyed is a Siberian working breed known for its white double coat and trademark “smile.” Originally bred to herd reindeer and pull sleds, they thrive in cold climates and love companionship.
Greenland Malamute
Also known as the Greenland Dog, this breed is closely related to wolves. They’re powerful sled dogs that can withstand extreme cold and were historically used to hunt seals and polar bears.
American Eskimo

Despite its name, the American Eskimo Dog descends from German Spitz. Intelligent, lively, and always white-coated, Eskies come in three sizes. Once circus performers, they’re playful, talkative, and affectionate family companions with plenty of energy.
Seppala Siberian Sled dog

- Rare and bred for endurance, the Seppala Siberian Sled Dog is a working sled breed from Siberia. Closely related to the Siberian Husky, Seppalas are energetic, trainable, and built for long-distance travel in harsh arctic conditions.