Dog Breeds That Look Like Huskies [wolf like dogs]

One of the most well-known and loved dogs is the Siberian Husky also called the Alaskan Husky, just plain Husky or even just Siberian. Huskies have stunning blue eyes, bushy tails, and wolf-like features that make them easy to recognize.

This famous dog has a reputation as a popular breed and its characteristics make it the most desired of all northern dogs. In fact, according to Purina, “The Siberian Husky ranks #12 in popularity out of the 194 dog breeds recognized by the AKC.” 

Alaskan Huskies don’t do well with smaller pets like cats and possibly young children. For this and other reasons, some people may find the Alaskan/Siberian Husky breed ill-suited for their particular needs.

There are other options if you want a dog that looks like a Husky. Here is a comprehensive list of several dog breeds that have those characteristics and traits. Many of these dogs have a wolf-like appearance.

Let’s start with the traits and characteristics of the Siberian Husky so you have the information you need to compare breeds and make an informed decision.

Facts About the Siberian Husky

• Energy: Medium

Siberian Husky History

The Siberian Husky is a strong, compact, and graceful big dog. Originally from Siberia, they were brought to Alaska to be working dogs. They are mostly known as sled dogs able to pull light loads over long distances and work with a team of other dogs. The Husky is a hard-working dog!

Their thick double coat helps them endure the frozen expanses in which they work. Their muscular build is perfect for pulling sleds and they are the most popular choice for this type of work.

Huskies have even racked up a few remarkable achievements in their many years of service.

… in 1925 legendary musher, Leonhard Seppala, led a relay of Siberian Huskies 658 miles in only five and a half days to rush a lifesaving serum to Nome, Alaska, where an epidemic of diphtheria had broken out.

American Kennel Club

Impressive! These dogs crave hard work and are heroes too!

Siberian Husky Temperament

These intelligent dogs make a good pet and get along well with other dogs. However, as noted in the introduction, they have a strong prey instinct so it is inadvisable to keep them in a house with smaller animals such as guinea pigs, rabbits, or cats.

Huskies are very friendly and because of that, they do not make an excellent watchdog.

Siberian Husky Size

• Height: 20 to 24 inches
• Weight: 35 to 60 pounds

Siberian Husky Colors

• Black
• Black & Tan
• Black & White
• Gray
• Red & White
• Silver & Gray
• Mix

Is a Siberian Husky Hypoallergenic?

Siberian Huskies are not hypoallergenic. They actually shed constantly which helps them stay clean since the dirt on their fur is always falling off with the hair. So they are naturally quite clean without much odor.

Siberian Husky Lifespan

12 – 14 years.

Siberian Husky Price

Pricing for a Siberian Husky really depends on the quality of the breeder and the linage of the dog. You will probably pay anywhere from $700 to $1400.

---

Keep reading to learn about other dogs that look like Huskies.

Dogs that look like Huskies but Aren’t

Even though some say they make have the look they are not all wolf hybrids. While some have pointy ears and some don’t, in general, you will see resemblances for sure and may think they are wolf-like breeds. Some people even confuse these dogs that look like Huskies with German Shepherd Dogs but they are totally different.

One thing for certain is these Husky breeds are all energetic dogs and not small animals. Each and every one of them can make good companions but some are not suitable for a good family dog.

After all, they were bred as working breeds and not to be family members. Working dogs as a pet require a lot of exercise and long walks or they may exhibit destructive behavior.

All of these domestic dogs do better in colder weather, crave an active lifestyle, and require proper training from the owner.

Below is a list of dogs that all share similar physical traits to the Husky. Some can make excellent family pets with proper training and care while others probably not.

---

Akita Dog Breed

• Energy: Medium

Akita Dog History

The Japanese Akita is a large, powerful dog with origins in Japan. Originally people called them “Snow Country Dogs” because they came from the cold mountainous regions of the country. These were hunting dogs used to track wild boar, bear, and even Elk.

You may also sometimes hear this dog called an Akita Inu. ‘Inu’ can be translated to mean dog.

It’s no surprise that the Akita is often used in security work as that field requires very specific training which they are good at. Akita’s make excellent guard dogs.

Akita Dog Temperament

It has a reputation for being courageous, bold, fiercely loyal, and protective. They can also be aggressive and some locations have even banned them as pets. Make sure you check your local rules and regulations before buying one.

Although affectionate and playful with its family and other people it knows, the Akita is leery of people they don’t know and isn’t the best around other animals.

The Akita is a moderately energetic and active breed, so they require a decent amount of daily activity like walks in addition to a fair amount of playtime. 

Akita Dog Size

• Height: 24 to 28 inches
• Weight: 70 to 130 pounds

Due to the size, strength, and temperament of the Akita Dog, it is probably not a good choice if you have small children.

Akita Dog Colors

• Black
• Brindle
• Chocolate
• White
• Mix

Is an Akita Dog Hypoallergenic?

No, the Akita is not hypoallergenic. They lose their coat twice a year and are considered to shed at a fairly low rate.

Akita Dog Lifespan

10 to 13 years.

Akita Dog Price

Expect to pay $800 to $1100 for an Akita puppy from a good breeder.

---

Alaskan Klee Kai Dog

• Height: <13” – 17 ½”
• Weight: 6 to 25 pounds
• Coloring: Symmetrical mask on the face with body markings
• Energy: Energetic and Friendly Dog
• Life Span: 13 – 16 years

Alaskan Klee Kai History

You may notice an Alaskan Klee Kai Dog right away from their distinctive facial masking pattern. First developed in Alaska by the Linda S. Spurlin family these northern dogs have been bred as a companion dog since day one and not as a working dog.

Not available to the public until the late 1980s this stunning dog was recognized and registered as a rare breed in 1995. If you want a dog that has a stunning appearance, is not too big and has a great temperament the Alaskan Klee Kai breed is it.

Alaskan Klee Kai Temperament

The breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and vigilance. The Alaskan Klee Kai tends to be quiet and reserved with strangers and requires early socialization and training from a young age.

Alaskan Klee Kai Size

This is a relatively tiny dog in comparison to the others on this list. The Alaskan Klee Kai is a breed of dog that comes in three different sizes:

• Toy
• Miniature
• Standard.

The smallest of these is the Toy which stands under 13” in height and weighs from six to twelve pounds.

The Miniature is the next step up standing at 13 to 15 inches and weighing as much as eighteen pounds.

Standard varieties are 15 to 17 ½ inches tall and weigh up to twenty-five pounds.

Alaskan Klee Kai Colors

• Black & White
• Gray & White
• Red & White

Alaskan Klee Kai Dogs have Amazing Eyes!

Is an Alaskan Klee Kai Hypoallergenic?

This dog has a double coat and sheds continuously. You will need to vacuum a lot! The Alaskan Klee Kai Dog is not hypoallergenic.

Alaskan Klee Kai Lifespan

12 to 16 years on average.

Alaskan Klee Kai Price

This is a popular and somewhat unique dog so they are not inexpensive. Be prepared to pay between $1500 and $2000 for a Alaskan Klee Kai puppy.

---

Alaskan Malamute Dog Breed

• Height: 23” (f), 25” (m)
• Weight; 75 lbs. (f), 85 lbs (m)
• Coloring: Shades of gray, black, sable, red, and also all white
• Energy: Medium
• Life Span: 10 – 14 years.

Alaskan Malamute History

Named after an Innuit tribe in Alaska known as the Mahlemuts, the Alaskan Malamute is a strong-willed, highly intelligent breed that is built for hard labor.

They bear a striking resemblance to a Husky, have strong bones, well-developed shoulders, and a thick, weather-proof coat. They too were originally used as an arctic sled animal, pulling heavy loads across the frozen north. The Alaskan Malamute is a very popular dog breed.

As a pet, they require a firm, but loving hand, or else they will grow convinced that they are in charge and become a discipline problem. They are an athletic breed, so they need a good deal of daily exercise, preferably involving outdoor activities of some kind.

Also, their thick coat requires substantial care in the form of frequent brushing, as well as an occasional bath.

---

American Eskimo Dog Breed

• Height: 9” – 19”
• Weight: 6 – 35 lbs.
• Coloring: Mostly white
• Energy: Medium
• Life Span: 13 – 15 years

American Eskimo Dog History

The American Eskimo dog has its roots in Germany and was actually brought to the United States by people immigrating from there.

Small Dog that Looks like a Husky

The American Eskimo is a small dog that looks like a Husky. It comes in three different sizes:

• Toy
• Miniature
• Standard.

The Toy ranges from 9” to 12” in height and six to ten pounds in weight.

The Miniature ranges from 12” to 15” in height and ten to twenty pounds in weight. The

Standard comes in at 15” to 19” in height and twenty-five to thirty-five pounds in weight.

The “Eskie” as this breed is often called, is playful, smart, and neither too aggressive nor too shy. They have a heavy coat that must be brushed at least once a week.

A highly-trained Eskie by the name of “Stout’s Pal Pierre” managed to walk a tightrope. Another impressive canine feat. Don’t you think?

---

Canadian Eskimo Dog Breed

• Height: 24” – 30”
• Weight: 60 – 95 lbs.
• Coat Color: Black, White, Gray, Red, Mix
• Energy: High. They need to get enough exercise or will be frustrated
• Life Span: 10 – 15 years
• Temperament: Brave, Loyal, Smart, Tough

Canadian Eskimo Dog History

Also known as the Canadian Inuit dog because it was widely used by the Northern Indigenous People of Canada, this is another Artic working dog.

This dog is not a new breed. Some say the origins of the Canadian Eskimo date back 4000 years! This rare breed is so rare that it was even declared extinct around 1963 with only one dog listed with the Canadian Kennel Club at the time.

You may be wondering what happened to them? Apparently, during the 1950s and early 1960s, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) killed tens of thousands of these dogs over disease concerns and public safety issues.

The killing of Inuit dogs was highly controversial and the Canadian government actually apologized for these actions decades later.

The breed is making a comeback though and there were population estimates of 300 dogs in 2008. Possibly because of its history, the Canadian Inuit is known as a very loyal dog.

The Canadian Eskimo Dog is basically genetically the same as the Greenland Dog. Although, some dog experts claim the Greenland Dog has not adhered to breed standards

---

Czechoslovakian Vlcak

• Height: 25 ½” +
• Weight: 44+ lbs.
• Life Span: 10 – 15 years

Czechoslovakian Vlcak History

They are bred to endure harsh conditions and they make an excellent pet for experienced dog owners who enjoy spending time doing outdoor activities and sports.

During the Cold War, they helped patrol the border of Czechoslovakia starting in the 1950s. Nowadays, they find employment for various tasks throughout Europe and in the United States.

The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog as it is often called in the United States is a highly intelligent and powerful dog that resembles a wolf in appearance. Some say this active dog even resembles a wild animal.

These wolf-like dogs have excellent vision, hearing, and smell. In addition to their amazing senses, they are also very durable creatures with great stamina.

---

Finnish Spitz Dog

• Height: 15 ½” – 18“ (f), 17 ½” – 20” (m)
• Weight: 20 – 28 lbs. (f), 25 – 33 lbs. (m)
• Coloring: A range of gold through red
• Energy: Medium
• Life Span: 13 – 15 years

Finnish Spitz Dog History

They have been used for tracking, as well as herding and guarding, even though at the present they are largely house pets. To a certain extent, they resemble foxes in appearance.

The Finnish Spitz is a rare breed that is known to be high energy, alert, and very vocal. In fact, they are well-known as barkers and in Finland, the people even hold barking contests for their furry companions.

The Finnish Spitzes are often referred to as “Finkies” or “Finns.” Although wary of people they do not know, they are not shy. Their beautiful coats make them well-suited as show dogs, but they are also very athletic in their own right.

With their heavy coats, they need brushing at least once a week. They also need moderate exercise, and they are playful friendly animals.

---

Icelandic Sheepdog

• Energy: Medium

Icelandic Sheepdog History

The Icelandic Sheepdog is a hardy animal of great agility. Also called an Icelandic Spitz, they were bred for herding purposes in the mountains and are the only dog breed native to Iceland.

Hailing back to the age of the Vikings, many people think the Icelandic Sheepdog is the oldest dog breed in the world.

In modern times as farming activity decreased in Iceland the number of Icelandic Sheepdogs began to reduce at a rapid rate. Some were concerned the breed would actually go extinct so measures were taken to prevent that from happening.

The dog has now become popular as a family dogs so their numbers are increasing. It was registered as a breed with the American Kennel Club in 2010.

Icelandic Sheepdog Temperament

This clever dog makes a playful, enthusiastic pet whose general demeanor as a friendly, happy animal is sure to win over even the most stubborn heart.

Icelandic Sheepdog Size

• Height: 16 to 18 inches
• Weight: 25 to 30 pounds

Icelandic Sheepdog Colors

• Black with White Patches
• Chocolate Brown
• Gray
• Tan

Is an Icelandic Sheepdog Hypoallergenic?

The Icelandic Sheepdog has moderate shedding and is not considered a hypoallergenic dog.

They have a dense coat of fur that needs regular grooming (maybe twice a week) and they shed two times a year.

Icelandic Sheepdog Lifespan

12 to 14 years.

Icelandic Sheepdog Price

Based on the quality of the breeder you purchase from you can expect to pay between $800 to $1000.

---

Keeshond Dog Breed

• Energy: Medium

Keeshond History

Keeshond Dogs are sturdy animals who originated in Holland during the 1700s where they once served as guard dogs on barges that traveled the canals.

These nimble dogs almost have fox-like features and are distinguished by spectacle-like markings around their eyes for which they have become famous.

Keeshond Temperament

They are very personable animals and make good pets.

Keeshond Size

• Height: 17 to 18 inches
• Weight: 35 to 45 pounds

Keeshond Colors

• Black
• Gray
• Silver
• Mix

Is a Keeshond Hypoallergenic?

No, the Keeshond Dog is not hypoallergenic. They shed on occasion, so it is recommended that they be brushed once a week or so.

It’s also a good idea to give them a bath every month and a half. Such proper care is needed to keep the animal’s coat healthy.

Keeshond Lifespan

12 to 14 years.

Keeshond Price

Expect to pay in the $700 to $900 range for a Keeshond puppy from a quality breeder.

---

Native American Indian Dog

• Energy: Moderate

Native American Indian Dog History

This dog has been around for a long time with its exact origins being unknown. Some say the Native American Indian Dog (NAID) is a descendent of the ‘Dingo’. But what is known is that it has been used as a working dog for hundreds of years.

Prior to the Spanish introducing horses in North America, the Native American Indian Dog was the primary source of power to haul loads by the native Indians. It is thought that this breed goes back 10,000 years and has even been mixed with Coyotes.

The breed was formally recognized and founded in the 1990s by Karen Markel.

The Native American Indian Dog is sometimes called the “Spirit Dog”.

Native American Indian Dog Temperament

They have a great temperament and can make a good family pet. Hard working, loyal, friendly and easy to train, the Native American Indian Dog is a very popular dog.

This is also a very smart dog and bond with human family members. So much that they suffer from anxiety when left alone. Make sure you provide plenty of exercise and outdoor activity for them.

Native American Indian Dog Size

• Height: 23 to 33 inches
• Weight: 55 to 115 pounds

Native American Indian Dog Colors

• Black
• Silver
• Mix

Is a Native American Indian Dog Hypoallergenic?

The Native American Indian Dog only sheds its coat once a year and some people claim it is a hypoallergenic dog. While this may be debatable they do seem to be better than most breeds in this area.

Native American Indian Dog Lifespan

The Native American Indian Dog lives a long life from 14 to 18 years on average. This is a longer lifespan than many large dog breeds.

Native American Indian Dog Price

The breeder you choose to purchase from dictates the price you will pay but in general you can expect a Native American Indian Dog puppy to cost between $1000 and $1800.

---

Northern Inuit Dog

• Energy: High

Northern Inuit Dog History

The Northern Inuit Dog is a hybrid dating to the early 1980s. They are not recognized by the American Kennel Club as a pure breed. However, the Northern Inuit Society is striving to change that with a breeding program designed to create a unique and pure breed.

The idea behind the origins of the Northern Inuit Dog was to create a wolf-like breed that would be a good family pet. Combining the positive traits of Malamutes, German Shepherds, and Siberian Huskies produced the Northern Inuit.

Did You Know? Northern Inuit’s “howl” more than they bark. Is it because they were bred to look like a wolf?

Northern Inuit Dog Temperament

These dogs are loyal, calm, and generally have an even temperament. Northern Inuit Dogs can make good family pets as they are friendly and normally well behaved.

Remember though, they are large, strong, high-energy dogs and might not be the best choice if you have small children.

Northern Inuit Dog Size

This is a large dog!

• Height: 23 to 32 inches
• Weight: 55 to 110 pounds

Northern Inuit Dog Colors

• Black
• Gray
• Sable
• White
• Mix

Is a Northern Inuit Dog Hypoallergenic?

No, they shed, especially during seasonal changes. The Northern Inuit Dog is not hypoallergenic.

Northern Inuit Dog Lifespan

12 to 15 years

Northern Inuit Dog Price

A Northern Inuit dog puppy cost from a breeder will average between $700 and $1000.

---

Saarloos Wolfdog

• Energy: Medium to High

Saarloos Wolfdog History

The Saarloos Wolfdog is a hybrid dog and not recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club.

Famous Dutch Breeder Leendert Saarloos, created the Saarloos Wolfdog in 1935. Over the following years, he produced a hybrid dog from a German Shepherd and Wolf.

Saarloos Wolfdog Temperament

These dogs can be a bit reserved in their behavior at times but they are generally a friendly, energetic, and loyal dog. The Saarloos Wolfdog can be a good companion dog but due to its unique characteristics it is probably not the best choice for a family dog.

Saarloos Wolfdog Size

• Height: 24 to 30 inches
• Weight: 75 to 90 pounds

Saarloos Wolfdog Colors

• Black
• Blue
• Silver
• Tan
• White

Is a Saarloos Wolfdog Hypoallergenic?

This dog has a relatively short coat but will still shed at a moderate level. So normal grooming is required. The Saarloos Wolfdog is not hypoallergenic.

Saarloos Wolfdog Lifespan

Saarloos Wolfdogs generally live between 10 to 13 years.

Saarloos Wolfdog Price

On average, a Saarloos Wolfdog will cost between $700 and $1000.

---

Samoyed Dog Breed

• Height: 19 – 21” (f), 21 – 23 ½” (m)
• Weight: 35 – 50 lbs. (f), 45 – 65 lbs. (m)
• Coloring: mostly white, but also biscuit and cream
• Energy: High
• Life Span: 12 – 14 years

Samoyed Dog History

The Samoyed originated in Siberia. As a result, it has a heavy coat that is highly weather-resistant allowing the animal to survive in subzero climes, even as cold as -60 degrees or colder.

They shed a lot—all year, in fact—so they require frequent brushing, preferably once a day or so.

They require a lot of love and attention in a household. They do not react well to isolation, even becoming destructive should that happen.

They are hardworking sled animals, so they are strong and powerful, but also graceful. Often nicknamed “Sammies”, they are remarkably beautiful creatures.

---

Shikoku Dog

• Height: 17” – 22”
• Weight: 35 – 55 lbs.
• Coloring: tan, red, black, or mix of red, black, and white
• Energy: Energetic
• Life Span: 10 – 12 years

Shikoku Dog History

Years ago, they were used by Japanese hunters to track game. They are well-balanced animals with a well-boned, compact construction. Although they have a soft undercoat, their outer coat is a little harsh and straight.

Shikoku Dogs have good endurance and excellent senses. Also known as the Kochi-ken, the Shikoku comes from the Kochi Prefecture mountains on Shikoku Island, an island near the southern part of Japan.

In general, they make good hunters who are submissive to their owners.

---

Swedish Vallhund Dog

• Height: 11 ½” – 12 ¾” (f), 12 ½” – 13 ¾” (m)
• Weight: 20 – 35 lbs
• Coloring: Red or gray
• Energy: High
• Life Span: 12 – 15 years

Swedish Vallhund Dog History

Once known as “The Viking Dog,” this animal has a history that goes back over 1000 years to the Swedish Viking era. It was originally bred to herd both sheep and cattle. Generally, Swedish Vallhunds have short, stocky legs to support their long, muscular bodies.

They are a well-balanced and powerful breed, yet still capable of smooth, fluid movement. In addition to herders, they make exceptional watchdogs while still managing to be cheerful and approachable.

A good choice for a family pet, Swedish Vallhunds do need a good deal of exercise on a daily basis. They are distantly related to Corgies.

---

Tamaskan Dog

• Energy: Calm, Mellow, Relaxed. Shows More Energy on Walks.

Tamaskan Dog History

The Tamaskan Dog was designed to be an animal that looked like a wolf but had a mild temperament and could be a good family pet.

In the 1980s several types of artic working dogs were bred and then the offspring were mixed with other wolf-like dogs to create the Tamaskan Dog.

Tamaskan Dog Temperament

These are gentle, smart, and tolerant dogs. Smart, friendly, and very loyal. Tamaskan Dogs can make great family pets but be aware they don’t like to be left alone.

These dogs form a great bond with their human family and can be destructive if they feel they have been abandoned.

Tamaskan Dog Size

• Height: 24 to 28 inches
• Weight: 50 to 100 pounds

Tamaskan Dog Colors

• Black
• Gray
• Red

Tamaskan Dog Hypoallergenic

No, the Tamaskan Dog is not hypoallergenic. This dog does shed although not as much as some others. It only requires a moderate level of grooming to care for its thick coat.

Tamaskan Dog Lifespan

14 to 16 years.

Tamaskan Dog Price

You can expect to pay $1400 to $1800 for a Tamaskan Dog from a quality breeder.

---

Utonagan Dog

• Energy: Moderate. Needs Regular Exercise.

Utonagan Dog History

Originating in the United Kingdom, the Utonagan Dog was designed in the 1980s to be an animal that looked like a wolf but did not actually have any direct lineage to actual wolves. The breeders wanted that wolf look but in a dog that could be a good family pet. So it is another hybrid dog and not a purebred.

Interesting Fact! The Tamaskan Dog (listed above) was actually developed by breeding the Utonagan Dog with a Czechoslovakian Wolfdog.

Unlike many of the dogs on this list, the Utonagan Dog was not intended to be a working dog. Although they do have their ancestry from German Shepherds, Malamutes, and Siberian Huskies.

Utonagan Dog Temperament

Some people describe the Utonagan Dog as a “sheep in wolves clothing.” Yes, they have that wolf look but none of the aggression or unpredictability that a dog with a direct wolf bloodline could have.

They don’t like to be left alone and bond strongly with their human family. The Utonagan Dog can also be great with other animals including kittens. They like being around other dogs as they are very social and friendly.

Utonagan Dog Size

• Height: 23 to 30 inches
• Weight: 40 to 100 pounds

Utonagan Dog Colors

• Black
• Gray
• White
• Mix

Is a Utonagan Dog Hypoallergenic?

No, the Utonagan Dog is not hypoallergenic. They do shed and require some grooming although at a moderate level. So they are fairly easy to take care of from that perspective.

Utonagan Dog Lifespan

12 to 15 years.

Utonagan Dog Price

These are not common dogs and it may be difficult to even find a repeatable breeder in your area. If you do, expect to pay anywhere from $700 to $1100.

Conclusion

You probably didn’t know there were so many dog breeds that look like Huskies. Each of them have their own characteistics but they all are based on Artic workign dogs and in some way resemble a wolf.

With the exception of the Alaskan Klee Kai dog (small dogs in comparison), these are all big, strong dogs that may or may not make a good family dog so keep that in mind.

These are all amazing creatures and just learning about them makes you appreciate the beauty and majesty of these great dogs.