10 Dog Breeds That Look Like Huskies (But Aren’t) — With Photos

The Siberian Husky is adored for its wolf-like appearance, icy blue eyes, and boundless energy. But while beautiful, Huskies aren’t a match for every household. Thankfully, several breeds look like Huskies but come with different sizes, temperaments, or training needs.

At Mawoo Pets, we’ve matched thousands of families with their ideal companion—whether that's a Husky or a lookalike that better fits their lifestyle. In this guide, we share top breeds that resemble Huskies, their key differences, and which might be right for you.

1. Alaskan Malamute

Why it looks like a Husky: Similar coat colorations, fluffy double coats, and striking facial masks.

Key Differences:

• Larger (up to 100 lbs) and more powerful

• More mellow and family-oriented

• Not ideal for first-time dog owners due to strength and independence

Mawoo Insight: Many families fall in love with Malamutes because of their gentle giant demeanor. 

2. Alaskan Klee Kai

Why it looks like a Husky: It’s essentially a miniature Husky.

Key Differences:

• Under 20 lbs and 10–15 inches tall 

• More reserved and alert - needs more early socialization

• Excellent for apartment living if well-exercised

Mawoo Insight: Alaskan Klee Kais are a newer breed, developed in the 1970s, with rising popularity given their more compact size. 

👉 Compare: Alaskan Klee Kai vs Miniature Husky

3. Miniature Husky

Why it looks like a Husky:It is a Husky—just smaller. Miniature Huskies are bred from standard Siberian Huskies to create a more compact version.

Key Differences:

• Weigh 20–35 lbs

• Same appearance and personality as a full-size Husky

• Still energetic, vocal, and needs lots of exercise

👉 Miniature Husky vs Regular Husky

Looking for more small-sized breeds? Here's our take on small Husky lookalike dog breeds.

4. Canadian Eskimo Dog

Why it looks like a Husky:
Similar arctic build, coat texture, curled tail, and working heritage as a sled dog.

Key Differences:

• More muscular and rugged than Huskies

• Strong prey drive and territorial instincts

• Extremely rare and best suited for experienced handlers

Read more on the CKC Breed Standard for Canadian Eskimo Dog

5. American Eskimo Dog

Why it looks like a Husky: Fluffy white double coat, pricked ears, and alert stance.

Key Differences:

• Always white or cream

• Smaller (Toy, Mini, or Standard sizes)

• More trainable and people-pleasing

• Less “talkative” than Huskies

For more details, check out American Eskimo Dog - AKC

6. Tamaskan Dog

Why it looks like a Husky: Bred to resemble wolves—lean, athletic, and often mistaken for a wild animal.

Key Differences:

• Rare breed not officially recognized by AKC

• High energy and intelligence—needs mental stimulation

• Often bred with Malamutes, Huskies, and German Shepherds

7. Utonagan

Why it looks like a Husky: Wolf-like coat and Husky-style facial markings.

Key Differences:

• Developed in the UK

• Friendly and adaptable but still rare in North America

• Needs lots of exercise and training

8. Samoyed

Why it looks like a Husky: Thick white coat, erect ears, curled tail.

Key Differences:

• Always white or cream-colored

• Known as “smiling sled dogs” - exceptionally friendly

• Less independent, more responsive than Huskies

More on the Samoyed Profile - AKC.

9. Finnish Lapphund

Why it looks like a Husky: Husky’s fluffy double coat, upright ears, and alert, expressive eyes. 

Key Differences:

• Smaller (33–53 lbs)

• Exceptionally gentle and calm—great for families

• Originally bred to herd reindeer, not pull sleds

• Much easier to train than a Husky

Mawoo Tip: Lapphunds make excellent companions for first-time dog owners who love the Husky’s look but prefer a milder temperament and easier training curve.

10. Akita Inu

Why it looks like a Husky:
Sturdy build, curled tail, thick coat, and alert demeanor resemble many Husky traits.

Key Differences:

• Larger, up to 130 lbs

• More reserved and aloof with strangers

• Protective instincts make them excellent guard dogs

Why Do So Many Breeds Look Like Huskies?

The Husky’s appeal—arctic beauty, independence, and strong-willed personality—has inspired breeders around the world. In many cases, these breeds were developed for cold climates or sledding work, which led to similar evolutionary traits like thick coats, strong builds, and endurance.

How to Choose the Right Husky Lookalike for Your Lifestyle

Looking for a Husky or Husky lookalike puppy? Browse our available puppies below: 

• Available Siberian Husky puppies
• Available Miniature Husky puppies
• Available Alaskan Klee Kai puppies

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a dog look like a Husky?

Key features include a thick double coat, almond-shaped eyes (often blue), upright ears, a bushy tail, and an athletic build. These features are common among arctic and working breeds.

Which breeds are true Husky descendants or relatives?

Husky relatives include the Alaskan Malamute, Canadian Eskimo Dog, Alaskan Klee Kai, and Miniature Husky. These breeds share ancestry with Siberian Huskies.

Is there a smaller version of a Husky?

Yes! The Alaskan Klee Kai and Miniature Husky are smaller options that retain the Husky look.

Which Husky lookalike is easiest to train?

The American Eskimo Dog and Finnish Lapphund are more trainable and eager to please than typical Huskies.

Which breeds that look like Huskies are good with kids?

Samoyeds, Finnish Lapphunds, and Utonagans are especially family-friendly.

Are any Husky lookalikes good guard dogs?

Yes, Akita Inu and Alaskan Malamute make excellent guardians when properly trained.