Huntaway vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Huntaway vs Alaskan Husky - Breed ComparisonAlaskan Husky is originated from United States but Huntaway is originated from New Zealand. Alaskan Husky may grow 10 cm / 3 inches shorter than Huntaway. Alaskan Husky may weigh 21 kg / 46 pounds lesser than Huntaway. Both Alaskan Husky and Huntaway has almost same life span. Both Alaskan Husky and Huntaway has almost same litter size. Both Alaskan Husky and Huntaway requires Low Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Herding dogs
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United States
New Zealand
Height Male:
48 - 56 cm
18 - 23 inches
56 - 66 cm
22 - 26 inches
Height Female:
41 - 49 cm
16 - 20 inches
52 - 62 cm
20 - 25 inches
Weight Male:
21 - 25 kg
46 - 56 pounds
25 - 46 kg
55 - 102 pounds
Weight Female:
17 - 19 kg
37 - 42 pounds
20 - 35 kg
44 - 78 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 15 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 8
5 - 7
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
New Zealand Huntaway, New Zealand Sheepdog
Colors Available:
Any color
commonly black and tan, tricolour, variable
Coat:
medium coat
smooth or rough
Shedding:
Minimal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Cheerful, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Social, Stubborn
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loyal, Playful, Responsive, Sweet
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Hard
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

alaskan huskyAlaskan Husky is created to be a working dog who can do many different jobs like hauling logs, transport, supplies delivery, racing dogs, etc. Mushers created this breed. Alaskan Husky is created as a mix of Inuit dog, Siberian Husky, Greyhound and German pointers, and it is very difficult to find pure breed Alaskan Husky, and they are not recognized by any Kennel club.

huntawayThe Huntaway or New Zealand Huntaway is a herding dog that originated in the New Zealand sheep country. Their main purpose is to drive sheep and they are not an old breed. They were developed late in the 19th century for their working skills. The only real criteria was that they were black and tan. A dog must win a trial in order to be placed in the New Zealand Sheep Dog Trial Association studbook. They drive sheep mainly through their deep, loud voice.

In the New Zealand high country there was a need for a working dog with stamina, agility and intelligence to work the sheep as a drover (herder). The dog had to be able to handle rough, steep land and work with very large groups of sheep. The sheer area of land that the sheep graze and the dog would have to cover, demanded that this dog have stamina and strength to cover large pasture land and work for days if necessary. Before this the shepherds had used British sheepdogs but they preferred dogs that barked while working. So they bred the British Sheepdogs with Collies, Border Collies, Labrador, Rottweiler, Doberman and other barking sheepdogs to create the Huntaway. In addition to the bark, they bred for stamina and size.

They were participating in field trails in 1870 and ads for them were seen in newspapers by 1884. They became a separate breed in the 20th century. Today they are spreading around the world and are becoming very popular. It is not recommended that they be kept as pets however, since they are true working dogs.

Description

alaskan husky puppy - descriptionAlaskan Husky average weight depends from dog to dog, but on average male weights 21-25kg, while their height is moderate size. Females are slightly smaller than males, and they can weight 17-19kg.

A lifespan of Alaskan Husky depends, again, from dog to dog, but it is 10-15 years. Of course, if you are taking care of your dog, they can live much longer.

Litter Size of average female is 4-10 puppies.

huntaway puppy - descriptionThe Huntaway is a large dog with a deep chest and a black and tan coat. They are strong, big and muscular with voices to match. They herd, head, work the sheep in pastures and force them into pens. They are bred to have that big authoritative, deep bark. They do not yap. Their bodies are well proportioned but longer than high. They have well - padded feet and a deep chest for stamina, along with strong legs and body that allows them to run fast and change directions at will.

The tail of a Huntaway if long, while their heads are shaped like blocks while the muzzle is long and the nose is black. They have dark, round eyes and long ears. An unusually attractive dog, they have dense fur with fringe on the tail and chest. There is characteristics a very large variety in the in the way the breed looks from one dog to the next. Thus they do not participate in confirmation events, as the standard is based on working characteristics rather than appearance guidelines. They are more a “class” than a “breed”.

Characteristics

alaskan husky dog - characteristicsAlaskan Husky is the best dog for the active people or families. They are bred to be working dogs. This breed is not created for it looks or pedigree, but this breed is bred purely to help with various tasks. They love being around the family, and they are very happy and cheerful. Alaskan Husky is not good watchdogs because they love everyone, including strangers. They are highly intelligent breed, but it can be tricky to train them sometimes. You must be a leader who makes decisions because if you are not confident, they will not see the reason for listening to you. The best way of training your dog would be with patience and firm, decisive manner. The old-fashioned way of training that includes punishment is not recommendable. They do not respond well to that. Training with awards is the best way to teach your dog. Alaskan Husky is a very active dog, so they are not very good for apartments. Although, you can have them in apartments but only if they have active walks and exercises. They love jogging, and they can be excellent buddies in any activity. They will love all the animals but it is important for them to socialize from the early age.

Children friendliness

huntaway dog - characteristicsThey are very good with children and love to play with them.

Special talents

Stamina, speed and independence

Adaptability

Not really. Don’t do well in small spaces. Better off in the country.

Learning ability

Very intelligent, quick learner, loves learning new things.

Health Problems

alaskan husky puppies - health problemsThis breed has no any specific health issues. However, as any breed they can develop some issues that are related to genetics. It is very important to discuss with owners that you are getting the dog from, and if they are not ready to show medical records or proofs that dogs are healthy then you should be extra careful. If you do not have a lot of experience in getting a puppy or an adult dog, you should bring someone who has more experience. Again, this breed is very healthy and if you give them adequate caring with regular vet checks you will have a healthy and a happy dog for a long time.

huntaway puppies - health problemsThe Huntaway is a pretty healthy breed, developed as it was from the sheepdogs and collies. They still face some inherited issues such as:

  • Hip dysplasia – can cause lameness and arthritis
  • Cancer of bone – life threatening
  • Ear Infections – long eared dogs are prone to infections
  • Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIA (MPS IIIA) – rare metabolic issue can cause neurological problems.
  • Dilated Caridomyopathy (DCM) – enlarged heart can cause heart failure

Caring The Pet

Feeding the Alaskan Husky

alaskan husky dogs - caringFeeding Alaskan Husky, or basically any other dog depends on how active your dog is, and how big it is. Basically, if it is big and very active you will have to give it more food. On average, Alaskan Husky can eat 3-4 cups of high-quality dry food and that should be enough to keep them well-fed and healthy. You can always add vegetables, oil or fruits in their meal, but first, consult which additional food is the best for your dog. Carrots, broccoli, apples are always a good treat for any pet.

Feeding the puppy

Puppies eat more than an adult dog, so it would be perfect if you can divide small portions of food 3-5 times per day. It will help them develop into perfectly healthy adult dogs.

Grooming the Alaskan Husky

They are not very difficult to groom. Overall, Alaskan Husky does not need any special care, except twice a year during shed season. Then you have to brush them with a metal comb every day, but overall, occasional brushing and bathing when it is necessary is more than enough to have a healthy and perfectly groomed pet.

Feeding the Puppy

huntaway dogs - caringIf you are not using your Huntaway to herd, then feed a medium formula not a high protein, high calorie formula. Feed 3-4 times a day and 1-2 cups.

Feeding the adult

3 cups per day feeding twice a day high quality medium calorie food.

Points for Good Health

Exceptional stamina

Games and Exercises

This herding breed has a great need of mental and physical stimulation. They were born to herd and to do so over vast tracts of land in challenging conditions. They need to be challenged. They need daily exercise at a very high level. A Run them every day or take them on a couple of long walks. They will excel in field trials, Barnhunt, agility and rescue. They love to learn.

Comparison with other breeds

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  5. Huntaway vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Huntaway vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
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  8. Huntaway vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Huntaway vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Huntaway vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Huntaway vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Huntaway vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Huntaway vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Huntaway vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
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  18. Huntaway vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
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  24. Huntaway vs Askal - Breed Comparison
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  26. Alaskan Husky vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Alaskan Husky vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Alaskan Husky vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Alaskan Husky vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Alaskan Husky vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Alaskan Husky vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Alaskan Husky vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Alaskan Husky vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Alaskan Husky vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Alaskan Husky vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Alaskan Husky vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Alaskan Husky vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Alaskan Husky vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Alaskan Husky vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Alaskan Husky vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Alaskan Husky vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Alaskan Husky vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Alaskan Husky vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Alaskan Husky vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Alaskan Husky vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Alaskan Husky vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Alaskan Husky vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Alaskan Husky vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Alaskan Husky vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Alaskan Husky vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison