12 Dog Breeds Most Similar to Huskies

With their playful attitudes and intelligent minds, huskies are some of the most unique working dogs in the world. Highly trainable huskies require plenty of mental stimulation to keep their active natures focused on non-destructive pursuits. The husky is a spitz breed of dog most recognized for pulling sleds in the world’s coldest regions. However, some dog breeds most similar to huskies do not look like them. Check out this list of dog breeds that are similarly intelligent, playful, outgoing, and gentle, like the husky.

1. Newfoundland

Like the iconic husky, which was bred to handle extreme temperatures, the Newfoundland originally rescued people drowning in cold waters. Both breeds also have a friendly demeanor that gets along great with both adults and children.

2. Samoyed

Samoyeds and huskies have similar origins as sled dogs, plus they both are considered spitz breeds, which means they have a pointed, wolf-like appearance. Although Samoyeds are smaller than huskies and recognized by their all-white coats, they share the same intelligence and loyalty. When it comes to dog breeds similar to huskies, the Samoyed shares a love for cold, winter weather.

3. Australian Shepherd

Both the Siberian husky and the Australian shepherd were bred for specific tasks, although one was bred for pulling sleds and the other for herding livestock. Australian shepherds and huskies share a friendly, outgoing temperament that makes them faithful companions for families.

4. Finnish Lapphund

Finnish Lapphunds and huskies share a similar origin in cold, unforgiving climates. However, whereas the Siberian husky developed as a breed thousands of years ago on the Siberian Peninsula, the Finnish Lapphund’s origins are in the far north of Scandinavia. Both types of dogs can be highly independent and strong-willed but also work well as pack dogs.

5. Border Collie

Because both border collies and huskies were bred for specific purposes, they both share an active, energetic temperament. This athleticism serves them well when it comes to their herding and sledding tasks but can be frustrating to their owners. Both huskies and border collies are known to be escape artists and will easily run away if not given enough exercise and space.

6. Icelandic Sheepdog

One of the dog breeds similar to huskies has a similar outgoing attitude with lots of energy. Like the Siberian husky, people originally bred the Icelandic sheepdog to thrive in cold weather. However, this breed developed in Iceland as a herding dog. Both breeds share a need for activity and stimulation, meaning they both thrive on attention.

7. Airedale Terrier

The largest of all terrier breeds, the Airedale terrier shares a lot with the Siberian husky, although they do not look a lot alike. Both breeds of dogs have friendly temperaments and are very willing to please their owners. Although they are loving animals that get along well with children and other pets, they can be stubborn and require dedicated training.

8. Labrador Retriever

When it comes to Labrador retrievers and Siberian huskies, you will find two breeds that are loyal to a fault and always a fun time to be around. Both breeds of dogs have temperaments that require plenty of space for exercise and have playful demeanors. Although Labradors are highly versatile, they are similar to huskies in adapting best to large homes with space to run and play.

9. Irish Setter

Irish setters and huskies get along well with various people and animals. In fact, they both find it easy to welcome others and are not very assertive. Do not count on either of these breeds to make great guard dogs, although they fit into most families well. Another similarity is their independent natures, although Irish setters can form strong familial bonds that will overcome most of their independent tendencies.

10. German Shepherd

German shepherds and Siberian huskies share a lot regarding their highly athletic qualities. Both breeds of dogs require plenty of exercise and fare the best with a dedicated owner who takes the time to take them outside for playtime and walks. These dogs also share an adventurous, outgoing spirit, which means they willingly come on outings and outdoor adventures.

11. German Shorthaired Pointer

The boundless energy of the Siberian husky matches the free spirit found in most German shorthaired pointers. While a bit less independent than huskies, German shorthaired pointers share the same active nature as the husky. Both breeds of dogs have plenty of friendliness to go around, but make sure to provide them with ample mental stimulation in the form of exercise and training.

12. Boxer

If you are looking for a dog breed similar to huskies that share its stubborn yet intelligent nature, look no further than the boxer. Both breeds of dogs are highly trainable but require consistent attention so that the training sticks. They also share a friendly, playful attitude that makes them excellent family dogs when given the proper amount of attention and stimulation.

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