Miniature Husky vs. Husky

Written by Janet F. Murray
Published: October 5, 2022
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The American Kennel Club (AKC) does not list the miniature husky as a breed separate from the standard Siberian husky. Instead, the miniature husky is bred smaller than the standard Siberian Husky, so it is a classification similar to toy or standard dog size. Despite the classifications, mini huskies are just as active and require as much exercise as their larger cousins. So, if you are considering either of these dogs as pets, browse the miniature husky vs. husky to prepare yourself for an active dog that needs plenty of attention.

Comparing Miniature Husky vs. Husky

IMAGE ONE – IMAGE OF MINIATURE HUSKY AND STANDARD HUSKY (CAPTION – Mini Huskies vs. regular Huskies are the same breed but with different classifications).

Miniature HuskyHusky
Breed HistorySiberian/Alaskan husky and Pomeranian or Shiba InuBred by the Chukchi people. May share ancestry with the Alaskan Malamute.
Purpose of BreedingCompanion dogEndurance sled dogs and companionship
Size12 to 16 inches20 to 23.5 inches
Weight15 to 35 pounds35 to 60 pounds
AppearanceFur – Thick shorter coat.
Colour – Black and white, gray, and white, red and white, sage and white, or all white.
Eyes – brown, blue, bi-eyed, or parti-eye.
Fur – Thick coat
Black and white; agouti and white; black, tan, and white; brown and white; gray and white; red and white; sable and white; and all white.
Eyes – brown or blue
Personality and TemperamentHigh energy levels
Social
Affectionate
Destructive behavior when bored
Boisterous
Playful
Friendly
Good with other dogs
Affectionate
Amiable
Mischievous
Energetic
Indifferent watchdogs
Playful
Adaptable
Price$950 to $1,450$700 to $1,200

Miniature Husky vs. Husky: Breeding History

There is some debate surrounding the source of miniature huskies. Some say Bree Normandin carefully bred them in the 1990s by taking smaller-standard Siberian huskies and breeding them to form the miniature husky. Others claim they include a mix of smaller breeds, such as Pomeranians or Shiba Inu. Either way, they were purposely bred to be small companion dogs. Miniature huskies are intelligent and alert, and their small size makes them more adaptable to smaller homes.

The standard husky’s story is quite different. The husky’s ancestors were originally bred in north-eastern Asia by the Chukchi people. They are thought to share their heritage with their larger cousin, the Alaskan Malamute. The husky was brought to Alaska in 1909 during the Nome Gold Rush and quickly became popular for its strength, endurance, and obedience. In 1925, the American Kennel Club registered the first Siberian husky.

Miniature Husky vs. Regular Husky: Purpose of Breeding

When comparing the mini husky vs. husky, both have a working dog background thriving on tasks.

©Dmitry Kalinovsky/Shutterstock.com

Today, the Siberian husky is a versatile breed that can make an excellent companion or working dog. They continue to be popular in sledding and racing events and work alongside search-and-rescue teams and law enforcement agencies. Thanks to their friendly disposition and striking appearance, Siberian huskies have also become popular pets in recent years.

Miniature huskies are more of a companion dog, but technically they are classified as working dogs. Miniature huskies are intelligent and active, and they thrive on human companionship. Their small size makes them better suited as companions, but because of their Siberian husky genetics, they will always be happier if they have something to do. They are also relatively easy to train and make great family pets. However, they require regular exercise and are not well suited to apartment living. If you are considering getting a miniature husky, research the breed thoroughly to ensure they are the right fit for your lifestyle.

Miniature Husky vs. Regular Husky: Appearance and Size

IMAGE THREE–IMAGE OF MINIATURE AND STANDARD HUSKY SIDE BY SIDE –Mini and standard huskies are similar in many ways except for size — the mini husky weighs 15 to 35 pounds, whereas the regular husky weighs 35 to 60 pounds.

Miniature huskies contrast with standard huskies in a few ways, most notably in size. They are typically about half the size of a regular husky, weighing in at 15 to 35 pounds and standing at 12 to 16 inches tall. Standard huskies, in comparison, weigh 35 to 60 pounds and stand 20 to 23.5 inches tall. Similarly, miniature huskies also have slightly shorter fur, often a mix of black, white, and gray colors. Similarly, standard huskies come in various colors, more so than miniature huskies. Moreover, miniature huskies may also have bi-eyes or parti-eyes, which is less common in standard huskies.

Miniature Husky vs. Husky: Personality and Temperament

why do dogs howl at sirens

All huskies benefit from training.

©Christian Mueller/Shutterstock.com

Miniature huskies are among the most social dog breeds, requiring plenty of variety in their environment. They need adequate time for playing fun games and having their human counterpart’s undivided attention. And although they have a friendly personality, you should supervise children around these pets as they get boisterous. Their high levels of energy and need for a connection could lead them into trouble and destructive behaviors if left alone for long periods.

Standard huskies are born pack dogs and, as such, enjoy family life and get on well with other dogs. But they do not make the best watchdogs as they are far too friendly. However, these energetic, working dogs are happiest when they have a task. Unfortunately, they are also escape artists, so a fence at least six feet tall is advisable. Standard huskies require daily exercise, preferably in the form of a long run or hike. Without enough exercise, they may become high-strung and destructive.

As with all dogs, training is essential to prevent unwanted behaviors from developing. Both huskies are intelligent and quick learners but can also be stubborn sometimes. Nevertheless, they respond well to consistent and firm training, using positive reinforcement techniques such as treats or praise. With proper care and training, huskies make loyal and loving companions.

Miniature Husky vs. Husky: Price and Health

The price and cost of owning a miniature husky is typically comparable to that of a standard Siberian husky. But despite these figures, the mini husky is slightly more expensive at $950 to $1450 than the $700 to $1200 for a typical husky.

Like all dogs, both huskies are susceptible to various health problems. Some common issues include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and autoimmune diseases. Because of these problems, having a vet check your dog regularly to keep up with preventive care like vaccinations and routine check-ups is essential.

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The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/format35

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About the Author

I'm a freelance writer with more than eight years of content creation experience. My content writing covers diverse genres, and I have a business degree. I am also the proud author of my memoir, My Sub-Lyme Life. This work details the effects of living with undiagnosed infections like rickettsia (like Lyme). By sharing this story, I wish to give others hope and courage in overcoming their life challenges. In my downtime, I value spending time with friends and family.

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