13 Dog Breeds Similar to Huskies (With Info & Pictures)

Huskies are one of the most sought-after breeds in the world but are also among the most misunderstood. Many people confuse them with other dog breeds, and often, it’s one of the 13 dog breeds that made it to our list.

If you’re curious about what a Husky-looking dog might be or want a dog that looks like a Husky, this list is a great place to start!

The 13 Dog Breeds Similar To Huskies

1. The American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo Dog is similar to a Husky in appearance, but they’re not as ancient as the Husky and originated in Germany rather than Siberia. However, they both require constant activity, and they’re both great herding dogs. While people often confuse the dogs, the American Eskimo dog is generally smaller.

2. Malamute

Malamutes and Huskies are similar in quite a few ways, which is why so many people often confuse the two breeds. They love working just like a Husky, and not only do they look similar, but they also have similar temperaments.

3. Bangkaew

The Bangkaew doesn’t have a direct relation to a Husky, but that doesn’t make them look any less similar. The Bangkaew comes from a Spitz lineage, and when you look at their ears and colors, it’s easy to see how they made the list. They’re unrelated to Huskies but can easily be mistaken for them.

4. Samoyed

The Samoyed is another sled-pulling dog that is similar to the Husky in quite a few ways. Both have bright white coats, high stamina levels, and similar temperaments. But while they might look and act similarly, they’re two completely different breeds.

5. Akita Inu

The Akita Inu has a few signature features that remind people of Huskies, but most won’t confuse the two breeds. They have a Japanese heritage, so they aren’t directly related to a Husky. The Akita Inu has impressive hunting instincts and is used to working alone, unlike a Husky.

6. Icelandic Sheepdog

The Icelandic Sheepdog is similar to the Husky in several ways, but there are a few differences. Icelandic Sheepdogs are herders, but they usually herd smaller animals like sheep, not reindeer. Icelandic Sheepdogs also have brown in their coats.

7. Keeshond

At first glance, a Keeshond has a few Husky-like traits. This includes a similar-looking coat, watchdog skills, and stubbornness. However, the Keeshond has a denser coat, and they don’t wander as much. They’re distant cousins, and that’s precisely what they look like.

8. Czechoslovakian Wolfdog

The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog is a cross between a German Shepherd and a Carpathian Wolf, which means they’re not related to a Husky. But while they might not have much actual relation, they look similar in quite a few ways, and that’s enough to give them a spot on this list!

9. Utonagan

If you’re looking for a dog genetically similar to a Husky, the Utonagan is near the top of the list. They have Husky DNA, which is why they look so similar and often have similar personalities. They’re incredibly active dogs, so ensure you have plenty of space and time to take them out before getting one.

10. Saarloos Wolfdog

This is another German Shepherd and wolf mix without a direct relative to the Husky. However, Saarloos Wolfdogs look similar in many ways. They both have higher energy levels and are extremely protective of their families.

• Also Read: How Much Does a Saarloos Wolfdog Cost?

11. Alaskan Klee Kai

The Alaskan Klee Kai might look like a Husky to the untrained eye, but most people can tell the two apart due to their smaller size. Because of their smaller size, the Alaskan Klee Kai isn’t a good sled dog, but they’re intelligent and easier to train than a Husky.

12. Tamaskan

Tamaskans are pack dogs by nature, so if you’re getting one, you might want to get two. They hate spending time alone, and they can get a bit destructive if you don’t give them enough attention. They look similar to the Husky in many ways, but they’re two different breeds.

13. Finnish Spitz

The Finnish Spitz is a dark brown breed, and they have hunting and guarding instincts that make them a bit more aggressive. However, while they’re different, they have similar coats, tails, head shapes, and ears, which is enough to give them a spot on this list.

Conclusion

While none of these dogs are Huskies, they are similar enough that many people mistake them for the Siberian sled dogs. Whether you are just interested in learning more or want a dog like a Husky with fewer Husky traits, any of the dogs on our list are worth checking out! They’re all great pups, and they’re all different from Huskies in their own ways.

See also:

• 100+ Husky Names: Ideas for Powerful & Elegant Dogs
• Best Dog Foods for Husky Puppies Available This Year

Featured Image Credit: Konstantin Zaykov, Shutterstock