Alaskan Huskies are hardworking, good-looking sled dogs. Unlike the Siberian Husky, the Alaskan is not purebred. They are a mixed breed developed historically for the primary purpose of being trained as racing sled dogs. This breed is most commonly associated with great sled races like the famous Iditarod. They are one of the fastest canines in the world. Despite their enormous strength and endurance, these are not huge-sized dogs.
These athletic pups are bred for their physical skill and athleticism. They are known for their strength and pulling, high intelligence, speed, extreme endurance, healthy appetite, and ability to survive in extremely wintry conditions. Along with being incredible athletes who could survive some of the most extremely challenging conditions, the Alaskan Husky is a wonderful pet for the right owner. These dogs are wonderful cuddlers and adore being in the company of their human family members.
Monitoring a dog’s size and growth during puppyhood is always a good idea. This helps owners know if their pups are hitting the right milestones and developing properly, regardless of their breed. Every dog is unique and will grow at its own pace, and there are some general guidelines and milestones that owners can look out for. Different factors will impact a dog’s growth regardless of what breed or gender they are.
Our comprehensive growth guide breaks down the average growth cycle for the Alaskan Husky. We provide a breakdown of their growth throughout their early years and a growth chart to use as an easy reference. We also discuss what to expect when a dog is an adult and cover some of the most frequently asked questions owners have about their Alaskan Husky growing up.
What To Expect
Alaskan Huskies are a little taller than the Siberian Husky and not quite as heavy as an Alaskan Malamute, though they share genetics with both breeds. They are medium to large, reaching between 35 and 60 pounds when fully grown. It is good to know the average growth milestones to look for. Growth charts are helpful tools, but they do not cover everything owners need to know about a puppy’s growth cycle. Puppyhood is the most critical and influential developmental stage a dog will go through. Making sure they are being cared for properly and are not lacking in growth or growing too rapidly are things to look out for. Providing your pup the best care possible as a puppy will ensure that they grow up into a big, muscular, healthy adult.
The Alaskan Husky is not recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC). They result from centuries of crossbreeding of Alaskan sled dog species like the Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute with English Pointers, Greyhounds, German Shorthair Pointers, German Shepherds, and other strong breeds to create the perfect sled dog. All Huskies have genes from the Spitz family. Some Alaskan Huskies will not look anything like the more recognizable Siberian Husky, though some will be similar. This all depends on the genetic makeup, which is hard to trace in mixed breeds like this.
Reminders
This article presents information about the average growth patterns of an Alaskan Husky. These pups stand between 20 and 26 inches when fully grown and will weigh between 35 and 60 pounds when fully grown. They have a double coat of fur, sometimes thicker than others, so they often look bigger than they are. Though these tykes are related to the Siberian Husky, they do not always have the same thick, elegant-looking coats. This breed is made from a mix of several other breeds, so owners need to remember this, as mixed breed growth can sometimes be unpredictable. They live, on average, 12 to 15 years.
A dog’s growth will depend on many things, but nutrition is a significant factor. Dogs fed improperly can either gain too much weight or not gain enough. Owners should never forget that every dog is different, especially with a mixed breed. Every dog will experience unexpected growth spurts or plateaus during their growth process. These can happen for many reasons and are often normal but can be confusing. Remember that these spurts and lulls in growth are expected. Owners should always consult their veterinarian if they are concerned that their puppy is growing too fast or too slow. Your veterinarian can set up an appointment to examine your puppy and make sure there are no underlying medical conditions that might be impacting growth.
Puppy Growth Timeline
Let’s walk through all the general growth phases and milestones in an Alaskan Husky puppy’s first year of life. Our timeline covers general growth and development and gives owners an idea of what to expect in each phase of puppyhood. Keep in mind that with a mixed breed like the Alaskan Husky, there is always a level of unpredictability if owners are not sure of the exact genetics of their dog. Our information is an estimate, so owners have a guideline of what to expect, not an exact prediction.
Birth To 2 Weeks
From birth to about two weeks old, puppies do not do much. They are entirely dependent on their mother for nutrition and care. Puppies are born both blind and deaf and do not do much moving around other than wriggle about near mom for the first few weeks. Puppies should be allowed to nurse as much as they need. Near the two-week mark, puppies will start to have their ears and eyes open fully. Puppies do not weigh very much at this time, between about two and five pounds.
1 Month
By one month old, puppies have developed most of their five senses. They can see and hear things and will start to practice walking around on their wobbly legs. Puppies will start showing a lot of interest in their littermates, which is the start of their socialization training. They will continue to nurse with mom but can be introduced to puppy mush at about one month old. This should be mainly water with a little bit of soaked wet or dry food. Puppies will weigh about five or six pounds by now.
2 Months
At two months, puppies will have mastered controlling their feet and be ready to explore the world around them. This should also be when owners entirely switch them from mom’s milk to puppy food. It is probably advisable to continue feeding them puppy mush, kibble soaked in water, until it is mushy and malleable. One part food to three parts water is a good guideline. Always ensure puppies are getting enough to eat if they seem hungrier, they may be ready for water to be decreased. Always use high-quality puppy food that will provide them with proper nutrition to support growth. For puppies reluctant to wean, puppy milk formula can be used instead of water. It is imperative to start the weaning process, as puppies will be teething soon if they are not already.
Along with weaning, two months is the time that potty training should start. This is also the age that puppies can start being vaccinated. This is an excellent time to call the vet and get things started. Female puppies will weigh between 5 and 8 pounds. Males will be slightly larger, between 5 and 10 pounds.
3 Months
At three months, puppies are very sturdy on their feet and happy to explore. They are very curious and have a lot of energy. Puppies will need a lot of patience at this time. They will learn new things and test their limits daily, so bad behavior needs to be redirected with positive feedback. Remember, they are very young and early in their stages of development. These are fundamental lessons that puppies learn, especially when they are this young. This sets the foundation for proper behavior and establishes boundaries between pets and owners. While we love our fur babies, they cannot be allowed to be the ones in control. Socializing and introducing them to basic training, even this young, will set them on the right path. Additionally, the Alaskan Husky tends to be a very high-energy breed. They are very smart and will pick up on training easily, so it is best to start young.
Pups should be well into potty training by now. Owners can try this with a leash, take dogs outside, and indicate that it’s time to go to the bathroom using words like “let’s go,” “potty,” or “go pee.” Owners can pick a phrase that works for them. Positive reinforcement, including treats, cuddles, and toys, will help dogs respond better to the house-training process. They should also be eating kibble or high-quality wet puppy food. It is best to feed them a combination of both. Males will be larger than females. This will start to be more evident at this time. Males will weigh between 10 and 12 pounds by this time. Females will likely weigh between 8 and 10 pounds.
4 Months
At four months old, puppies are racing around the house and growing rapidly. Their weight will start to increase noticeably. Males will weigh between 15 and 20 pounds, with females following close behind at about 15 pounds. Puppies are energetic and playful, meaning they will need a lot of interaction and supervision. It is never too early to start looking at obedience and training classes. Inexperienced dog owners may benefit significantly from this, especially with this breed.
Because genetics can be unpredictable, these pups may have a stubborn streak. Highly intelligent canines tend to be stubborn and can be very hard to train. It is best to start this process early at the first signs of trouble. It can also be beneficial to socialize dogs in settings like dog parks or even puppy daycare classes. This will give them a safe environment to learn appropriate behavior around other dogs.
Puppies should be well on their way into the cycle of puppy immunizations. This is also an excellent time to start talking to your veterinarian about the spay and neuter process. Every veterinarian will have their preference. However, it is best to do this before they sexually mature and before female dogs go into heat.
5 Months
By five months old, your puppy is no longer a tiny baby. He will be bigger, with longer limbs, and will start to look more like an adult dog than a puppy. He will still retain a playful nature but may begin to be a bit awkward in his body as he learns to navigate through his larger size. Males will weigh around 25 to 30 pounds or more. Females will be between 15 and 25 pounds themselves. They may resemble a gangly teenager with longer limbs than they know what to do with.
Puppies are full of energy and will need regular physical exercise. They should go for at least one walk a day and have time outside to run around, play fetch, and interact with other canines. This breed is known to be full of energy and is very athletic. This is something that owners will need to be ready for the next several years. This is not a good breed for small spaces or owners who will not be home all day. They can get very lonely when left alone, and some of that behavior may start to be seen already. Additionally, puppies will still be in the teething process at this time, which can impact their behavior.
6 Months
At six months old, your Alaskan Husky will not be as large as an adult dog but is obviously no longer a tiny puppy. He will be full of energy and constantly want to play, but it is essential to ensure he has time for rest. Because he is growing rapidly, owners must be careful not to overexert him. Puppies need to keep some extra energy to support their rapid growth. Males will weigh at least 30 to 35 pounds, possibly more. Females will be between 25 and 30 pounds. If your pup seems to be growing a lot larger than this, a larger breed may likely be dominant. We must point out again that growth is unpredictable because of this dog’s mixed genetics. Some animals will be smaller, and some will grow much larger.
Puppies should still be on high-quality puppy food at this time. They should continue to be fed this until they reach about a year old. By now, they should have well-established mealtimes. While treats and a few little snacks are okay throughout the day, it is not a good idea to freely feed this breed. They love to eat and will pack on the pounds if given free rein.
7 Months
Dogs should be well-practiced in their daily routines by the seven-month mark. If there are lingering behavior concerns, it is best to get in touch with a professional trainer soon. If owners are having trouble, it might be a good idea to take a class by themselves and a class with their dog to learn how to set firm boundaries. This is important for this breed due to its genetic unpredictability. Because they are historically bred to be racing dogs who work hard under challenging conditions, they have a lot of energy, are very intelligent, and may also be stubborn. This behavior needs to be taken care of before they become more set in their ways.
These dogs are known for having a sneaky, mischievous streak. They will be very interested in testing boundaries and trying to see what they can get away with. Walking them twice a day for at least 30 to 45 minutes may be beneficial. They should eat two meals a day and not be given too many treats. Owners also need to be careful about pups sneaking human food. This can cause a lot of different issues, including behavior and digestive.
Males will weigh between 35 to 42 pounds on average, and females will be between 30 and 38 pounds or more. They should have several doses of puppy vaccinations and a spay or neuter procedure by now.
8 Months
Puppies will still be growing at eight months old, but it will not be as rapid as a couple of months ago. They should now be more comfortable and have better control of their limbs and body weight. They will continue to put on one or two pounds a week for the next couple of months. Physical exercise and proper nutrition are essential right now. Though your pup may seem fully mature, he is still experiencing growth and development and needs well-balanced high-quality puppy food for another couple of months.
Leash training is especially important at this age. Because of their looks, this breed may attract a lot of attention. Some pups may look very similar to the Siberian Husky or Alaskan Malamute, and sled dogs of any kind always attract lots of oohs and awe from passersby. Because this is a medium to larger-sized breed, owners must know how to handle them on a leash, around other dogs, and among new people. Because they will look like fully grown dogs, it is easy to expect them to behave as though they were fully trained. The process is not yet complete.
Males will weigh between 42 and 48 pounds, and females will be between 35 and 42 pounds. Again, there will be some unpredictability about this with a mixed breed.
9 Months
Around this age, some puppy energy will start to wear off, and your dog may act more like a mature adult. While he will still have a lot of energy and want to play, by now, he should know what behavior is appropriate and what is not. Dogs will still need plenty of exercise and physical activity every day. Expect to walk them at least twice daily for the next several years. Dogs should also be given access to a safe outdoor space to run around. This breed will have high energy throughout their lives, so physical activity will always be a priority. They will also need mental stimulation and do well with a variety of toys.
Growth will slow down to a few pounds a month. Male dogs will weigh between 48 and 52 pounds. Females will be a little smaller, around 40 to 45 pounds. There is a possibility this breed can get larger depending on their dominant genes. Some have been known to reach about 75 pounds. This is more the exception than the rule. Dogs should still be fed high-quality puppy chow. A mix of dry kibble and wet or fresh foods provides a balanced diet and flavor variety.
10 Months
At ten months old, Alaskan Husky growth is no longer as rapid. They will continue to fill out but should have reached close to their adult height by now. Males will weigh, on average, 50 pounds. Females will be around 45 pounds. They will be well into training and should know appropriate behavior. Dogs should be socialized by now with both people and other pets. It is a good time to start taking them for long walks and hikes if you have not already. Keep up the training and positive reinforcement. They may still experience some periods of slow or more rapid growth and will need plenty of rest as well as opportunities to play.
11 Months
By 11 months old, your dog should be an old pro. He will have well-established walking, play, and eating routines. Teething should be entirely done by now, and your Alaskan Husky will be a full-fledged leader of the team. He should be well-socialized and will enjoy activities like daily walks through the neighborhood, visits to the dog park, and hikes in the mountains. This breed does not fare well in a hot climate, so hopefully, they will live somewhere where it is cooler and they can be outside for a good portion of the day. They do not do very well when left home alone all day, so it is a good idea to look into a pet sitter or have someone come in and check on them at least once throughout the workday. Because they have such high energy, they will need a lot of different toys and activities to keep themselves in good spirits.
Male dogs will weigh between 55 and 60 pounds, and females will weigh between 45 and 50. They should eat two meals daily with a few treats or snacks in between. It is an excellent time to start looking into the adult food you plan to switch to. Towards the end of 11 months, it is alright to start mixing in a little bit of adult food with their puppy kibble so they can begin the transition process.
1 Year
One year old, and it is time to celebrate! That sweet fur baby turned one year old and is considered an adult dog. Pups will continue to mature for the next six months or so. They will also continue to fill out a little bit in weight as they settle into their adult bodies. Dogs will be thoroughly trained, socialized, and ready to mingle in any situation.
While some breeds let go of that puppy energy as they age, the Alaskan Husky is not one that always does. They have been bred for generations to have lots of energy and endurance, and even if they are not leading the charge at the head of the sled race, they still have all that energy to spend. This dog breed will always be in high need of exercise and interaction with humans. They thrive on human attention and will want to be an integral part of your family life. Two-legged or four-legged, it does not matter to them as long as they are part of the pack.
Males will weigh 60 pounds, and females will weigh about 50 pounds. Again, because this is a mixed breed, this is a loose estimate. Some dogs of this breed are notably smaller, while others reach 65 to 75 pounds. These are medium-sized, muscular dogs. At around a year, make sure that they visit the vet to ensure all puppy vaccinations are done and up to date.
| Age | Male Weight (lbs.) | Female Weight (lbs.) |
|---|---|---|
| Birth to 2 weeks | 2 - 5 | 2 - 5 |
| 1 month | 5 - 6 | 5 - 6 |
| 2 months | 5 - 10 | 5 - 8 |
| 3 months | 10 -12 | 8 -10 |
| 4 months | 15 - 20 | 10 - 15 |
| 5 months | 25 - 30 | 15 -25 |
| 6 months | 30 - 35 | 25 - 30 |
| 7 months | 35 - 42 | 30 - 38 |
| 8 months | 42 - 48 | 35 - 42 |
| 9 months | 48 - 52 | 40 - 45 |
| 10 months | 50 - 55 | 45 - 50 |
| 11 months | 55 - 60 | 45 - 50 |
| 1 year ( 12 Months) | 60+ | 50+ |
What Happens Next?
When they reach a year-old Alaskan Huskies will have reached almost complete growth and body weight. They will continue filling out a little over the next two years. Most have reached their adult height by one year. Owners should plan for regular veterinary care and at least a once-a-year checkup for adult dogs. When they reach around seven years, old owners may want to consider taking them to the vet more. As long as canines get proper nutrition, plenty of exercise time, and lots of love and are not overworking themselves or getting injured, they should remain in good health for most of their lives.
Full-Grown Alaskan Husky
A full-grown Alaskan Husky is a medium-sized, muscular dog with extraordinary athletic ability. They will reach an average of 50 to 60 pounds fully grown, though some may be larger. Due to the mixed genetics of this breed, there is a little bit of unpredictability. Owners can look to the parents, if possible, for a better estimate of how large or small their pup may grow.
This breed is a very active canine that makes a great companion for owners that love to spend a lot of time outside, hiking, backpacking, and exploring. They do not do well in homes where they are kept inside all day or do not have enough room to explore. Anyone adopting one of these dogs needs to be ready for their high energy and exercise needs. Adults need to be on adult formula dog food. Medium to large breed formulas will work best. Dogs can be fed a mixture of kibble and wet or fresh foods to provide nutritional balance and flavor variety.
Along with being high-energy, this breed also is prone to suffering from separation anxiety. Owners will want to make sure that they make accommodations for this. It is essential to properly train and reinforce that training periodically to make sure this breeds behavior does not get destructive.
Alaskan Huskies are sturdy and relatively healthy, though they are predisposed to some health conditions. These include eye issues and diseases, including progressive renal atrophy, hip dysplasia, and autoimmune hypothyroidism. This breed is also susceptible to a congenital deformation of the lyrics. This condition causes them to make a wheezing sound, which has led to the breed sometimes being referred to as “Wheezers.”
Alaskan Husky Growth By Weight
All dogs will go through periods of differing growth. As you can see from the growth chart, there are some months in early puppyhood when they will put on a lot of weight, and then things will even out. Most canines will reach close to their adult weight by the time they reach one year old. Most breeds will continue to fill out for a few months to a year or so after that. Full adult height is usually achieved by their first birthday.
Factors To Consider
Many things impact how big a dog of any breed or individual pup is. Genetic makeup and lifestyle both play a significant role. Growth charts and puppy guidelines are great tools for owners to monitor milestones and growth but are not a perfect prediction or measure of how big any dog will grow. All dogs are individuals and have unique needs, and circumstances that contribute to how big or small they end up as adults.
Owners should always discuss any development or growth concerns with their veterinarian as soon as possible. Because so many different things can affect a dog’s growth, it is essential to rule out medical conditions when dogs are young. Even if canines do develop medical conditions, early detection can help owners and veterinarians work together to manage things and keep them living long, healthy lives. Consider the following factors when monitoring your Alaskan Husky’s growth.
Genetics
Genetics plays a huge role in how big a dog grows. In the case of the Alaskan Husky, genetics matter but are hard to trace. So, owners will need to look at the parent dogs and previous litters to get an idea of how big their specific dog might be. If this is not possible, they can look at growth charts like ours and learn more about breeds like the Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute and other sled dogs that share some genetics with the Alaskan Husky. However, owners must be ready for the unpredictable. Although the Alaskan Husky shares genetics and a name with the Siberian Husky, they do not always resemble that breed. Again, this all depends on genetic makeup. From the different breeds, a specific dog’s bloodline has mixed in.
Nutrition
Along with genetics, nutrition is probably the most significant factor that impacts a dog’s size. Alaskan Huskies are big, solid, working dogs and need a diet that has enough protein, vitamins, and good nutrients to support them. A diet full of healthy proteins, fruits, vegetables, grains, and more is needed. Healthy proteins include beef, lamb, salmon, whitefish, duck, chicken, turkey, and rabbit. Even more unusual proteins like venison and bison can add great nutritional benefits. Keep in mind dogs should be fed puppy food until they reach about a year old and then slowly transition to adult food with a mix of puppy kibble and adult chow.
Adding occasional fresh, canned, and even raw meals can provide a nutritional boost supporting a dog’s overall health. Some owners may always choose to feed their pups a fresh or freeze-dried diet, which can be incredibly beneficial. These options are costly, so they may not be realistic for everyone, but they add a wonderful occasional treat. Avoid low-quality and low-budget foods that use a lot of artificial colorings, fillers, and animal byproducts. A dog’s overall health depends on proper nutrition throughout its life. Lower-quality foods can be harder to digest, leading to other problems and impacting growth and development.
Growth Spurts & Plateaus
Every canine breed, purebred or mixed, will experience different periods of growth and plateaus throughout their puppyhood. Growing takes a lot of energy, which can impact a dog’s mood, appetite, and behavior. Growth spurts and levels are normal, but they are unpredictable and can happen anytime during a dog’s first couple of years. Keep in mind that these pups continue to mature for a few months after their first birthday.
Owners need to ensure that they are supporting their pups nutritionally and emotionally throughout their growth and development. Growth spurts and lulls can be confusing for owners and may impact how a dog feels. If pups grow rapidly, they may be tired or simply feel hungry all the time. Owners should talk to their veterinarians if worried about significant periods of slow or rapid growth.
Neutering & Spaying
Most owners and veterinarians will choose to spay and neuter their animals. Doing this too early can cause some developmental issues. Though it has not been shown to impact the overall size of a dog, it can have some effect on their lifelong health. This includes affecting bone growth, specifically how long it takes them to develop fully. There can also be weakened joints and other joint health issues throughout a dog’s life. Females generally take a little longer to mature sexually, so male dogs are often neutered earlier than females are spayed.
Physical Health & Activity
A dog’s physical health and overall well-being also affect how large it will grow. Dogs who are not fed proper nutrition or have an underlying disease or health issue may see impacts on their growth. Puppies suffering from a chronic illness may develop slower than healthy pups. Exercise dramatically impacts physical health. Dogs who do not get enough exercise may be lethargic and fail to grow. Dogs that get too much exercise may overexert themselves and expend too much energy. Regular, appropriate physical activity is vital for every dog, especially for a highly active dog like the Alaskan Husky.
Physical health will impact a dog from very early puppyhood until its senior years. Dogs who maintain proper health and are given appropriate nutrition, veterinary care, a safe home, and adequate exercise are healthier heading into their senior years. This can significantly impact how well they respond to aging and fighting illness and disease. Always ensure that this highly active medium to large-sized breed has plenty of room to run around, a good selection of engaging toys, and is getting walked every day.
Dental health should not be overlooked. Though it is often difficult to brush a dog’s teeth, especially larger ones like this, it is necessary. Dental disease can develop by the time a dog reaches two years old and seriously impact their overall health and development. Dental care should start as soon as their adult teeth grow in, if not sooner. Owners can talk to their vets if they are concerned about their dog’s dental health. Many veterinarians and grooming salons will offer teeth cleaning services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average size of an Alaskan Husky?
Alaskan Huskies, on average, reach about 50 to 60 pounds fully grown. Some have been known to reach around 75 pounds, while some are significantly smaller, about 35 pounds. When fully grown, they stand between 20 and 26 inches high at the shoulder.
My dog is an Alaskan Husky but doesn’t have a thick fur coat. What’s wrong with him?
Not all Alaskan Huskies will have the signature thick, downy coat commonly associated with the Husky dog. This is because Alaskan Huskies are a mixed breed. They share some of the same genetics as breeds like the Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky and will have some of the same physical characteristics, like piercing blue eyes. Because this breed is genetically mixed, there is always a bit of unpredictability in their physical appearance. There is nothing wrong with them. It is simply a matter of unknown genetics.
What should I do if I’m concerned that my Alaskan Husky is not the proper weight?
If you are concerned that your dog is not the right weight or is not growing properly, it is important to contact your veterinarian. They can examine your dog and go over growth milestones. Together vets and owners can work to rule out any underlying conditions like disease or poor nutrition. It is always best to talk to your veterinarian before switching a dog’s diet or adding supplements.
Final Thoughts
The Alaskan Husky is a high-energy, loyal, affectionate dog that can make an excellent companion for the right owner. Because they are so active, nutrition is incredibly important in their health, growth, and development. Because this dog is a mixed breed, its size and appearance can be slightly unpredictable. Owners must familiarize themselves with puppy growth milestones to know what to expect.
Responsible owners always put in the hard work, like doing research. We are happy to be able to help on your journey to raising a happy, healthy Alaskan Husky. Make sure to take your puppy in for regular veterinary checkups, and do not forget to continue to do this as he ages. Though adult dogs do not need as much veterinary care, regular checkups are where conditions are diagnosed early, and preventative measures can be taken. If you are concerned about your dog’s overall health or growth and development, it is always best to contact your veterinarian to ensure your dog is happy and healthy.
