Siberian Husky vs Alaskan Malamute: Size & Growth Compared
Updated October 2026
This is the most common sizing mistake in northern breeds: the Alaskan Malamute is roughly twice the dog of the Siberian Husky. Huskies typically reach 35–60 lb; Malamutes reach 75–100 lb. They look alike to newcomers — erect ears, curled tails, thick coats — but a Malamute puppy on a Husky growth chart will look alarmingly oversized, and a Husky on a Malamute chart will look stunted. Use the right chart for your breed.
Side-by-side comparison
| Metric | Siberian Husky | Alaskan Malamute |
|---|---|---|
| Adult weight | 35–60 lb | 75–100 lb |
| Male adult weight | 45–60 lb | 85–100 lb |
| Female adult weight | 35–50 lb | 75–85 lb |
| Size category | Medium | Large |
| Usually mature by | About 14 months | About 18 months |
Key differences
- Adult weight: Huskies 35–60 lb vs Malamutes 75–100 lb — the Malamute is nearly double.
- Growth timeline: Huskies mature around 14 months; Malamutes around 18 months.
- Bone: Malamutes are massively heavier-boned — the difference is obvious when you feel their legs.
- Chart mix-ups: always confirm which northern breed you have before judging a puppy’s growth.
- Feeding: Malamutes are efficient keepers and often need less food than their size suggests.
Frequently asked questions
How can you tell a Husky puppy from a Malamute puppy?
Size and bone are the giveaways even in puppies: Malamute puppies are stockier with much thicker legs and bigger paws. By 4–6 months the size gap is usually obvious. When in doubt, ask the breeder or your vet.
Which is bigger, a Husky or a Malamute?
The Malamute, by a lot — 75–100 lb adult vs 35–60 lb for the Husky. If your “Husky” is heading past 70 lb, it is likely a Malamute or a mix.
Do Huskies and Malamutes grow at the same rate?
No. Huskies finish around 14 months on a medium-breed timeline; Malamutes take about 18 months with much larger weekly gains at peak growth.