Lots of people dream about adopting an adorable Husky, and who can blame them? The second you look into those tiny blue eyes, you fall in love.
But before you go out there and get yourself a furry friend, you may need to consider if you should adopt a male or female Husky.
Is the gender of the pup all that important? Although it’s not always, there are some key differences for a male vs female Husky that you should be aware of before committing to the adoption.
We understand that huskies are unique and require special care, so we’ve created this one-stop shop to help you find the must-have items for your furry friend.
- Grooming Tools
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- Training Aids
- Comfort & Safety
Male vs Female Husky Traits Table
The table below summarizes male vs female Husky traits.
| Male vs Female Husky Traits | Male Husky | Female Husky |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 21 to 23.5 inches tall | 20 to 22 inches tall |
| Weight | 45 to 60 pounds | 35 to 50 pounds |
| Temperament | More extroverted, playful and affectionate | More introverted, stand off-ish & emotional |
| Personality | More dominant, stubborn and aggressive | More relaxed, easygoing & friendly |
| Muscle | More muscle | Less muscle |
| Nipples | Same | Same |
| Training | Hard to train due to their dominant nature | Easier to train due to their relaxed and easygoing nature |
| Vet Expenses | Lower vet costs, but still significant due to neutering and higher likelood for injuries | Higher vet costs due to spaying |
| Coat Color | Same possible coat colors | Same possible coat colors |
| Eye Color | Same possible eye colors | Same possible eye colors |
| Shedding | More shedding due to bigger size | Less shedding due to smaller size |
| Intelligence | Same overall intelligence, but different cogntive strengths. e.g. hunting. | Same overall intelligence, but different cognitive strengths. e.g. nurturing |
| Activity Level | More energetic | Less energetic |
| Good with kids? | Good with kids | Better with kids |
| Speed, Strength & Endurance | Faster, stronger and more endurance | Slower, weaker and less endurance |
| Food requirements | Slightly more due to bigger size and higher physical activity requirements | Slightly less due to smaller size and lower physical activity requirements |
| Exercise requirements | Slightly more | Slightly less |
| Health Problems | Health problems can vary | Health problems can vary |
| Price | Price can vary | Price can vary |
10 Key Differences Between Male vs Female Huskies
The Husky breed is well-known for its friendly personality and ability to get along well with other dogs, which is why so many people are looking to get this breed of pup.
The differences between male and female Huskies aren’t necessarily that significant. No matter which you choose, you’ll be signing up for a lifetime of love, fun, and great adventures together!
Still, it’s worth looking at each Husky gender side-by-side.
1. Personality
Huskies are pack dogs, and the male is usually the leader. So it’s very common for males to showcase leader-like qualities such as:
- Exerting their dominance
- Being more stubborn
- Showing signs of aggression when feeling threatened
By comparison, female Huskies are a bit more relaxed in a lot of ways. They don’t feel the need to mark their territories as much as male Huskies, and they learn to share the space with other dogs easily.
Does this mean your male Husky won’t get along with other dogs or be completely untrainable? Far from it. Each dog’s personality is different; it’s just that overall, male Huskies tend to be a bit more dominant than females.
2. Appearance
Male and female Huskies don’t look that different. They both have the signature Husky appearance, similar to a wolf.
The major differences lie in their weight and size.
Male vs female Husky size
On average, male Huskies can weigh between 45 and 60 pounds, while females usually weigh around 35 to 50 pounds. As for size, males can grow as high as 23 inches, while females usually cap out at 22 inches.
If your husky is still growing, check this husky size chart to see the difference between male and female huskies at different ages between 2 and 12 months old.
Aside from these, there are other differences in their appearance. For instance, some owners claim male Huskies’ faces have rougher features while females have softer faces.
This makes sense, considering a male Husky needs to win over the female by exerting dominance and even fighting with other dogs in the pack for their attention. The more rugged face could simply be a way to make themselves more appealing to their female counterparts.
In any case, they’re both obviously adorable.
Further reading: How big does a husky get?
Coat & Color
Both male and female Huskies come in a variety of coat colors and patterns, and gender does not typically influence the coat color. However, some owners have reported subtle differences in coat texture between male and female Huskies.
For instance, male Huskies might have a coarser and rougher coat, which could be attributed to their natural inclination for outdoor activities and dominance display. On the other hand, female Huskies might exhibit a softer and smoother coat, reflecting their nurturing and caring tendencies.
3. Behavior & Temperament
Male and female Huskies have different ways of interacting with their owners.
Male Huskies can be more playful and show more affection towards their owners. Meanwhile, female Huskies tend to be more withdrawn. They do play with their owners, but they also love their alone time.
Female Huskies can also be more introverted, so they’re less likely to get immediately excited when meeting someone new. Unlike males, they need a bit more time to warm up to someone.
Moreover, Husky owners may notice their female pup is more prone to mood swings than the males. This again comes down to their introverted nature. They can play with you up to a point and then simply walk away.
Our Huskies, Lexa and Mishka, love showing affection each morning and when getting home after being gone a while. Apart from those times, they like doing their own thing.
Further reading: How do huskies show affection?
Good with kids
Both male and female Huskies can be great with kids, but they may have different approaches. Male Huskies are generally playful and outgoing, making them energetic playmates for children.
Female Huskies tend to be calmer and more nurturing, making them well-suited for families with younger children. However, individual personalities and early socialization matter more than gender.
Proper training and supervision are essential to ensure a positive and safe relationship between your Husky and your kids. Always choose a Husky whose personality aligns with your family’s lifestyle and needs.
Further reading:
Food Aggression
Food aggression can be a concern in some Huskies, regardless of gender. However, male Huskies may exhibit more possessive tendencies when it comes to food and resources, owing to their dominant nature. To prevent food aggression, it is crucial to establish a consistent feeding routine and teach both male and female Huskies proper mealtime manners from an early age.
Further reading:
4. Training
Starting early while they are young is absolutely essential for Husky training. They have a strong desire to run, so it’s important to teach them how to walk with a leash and not stray too far away from you from the beginning.
Training differences between males and females aren’t that big, though males may need more time to learn. This is because their dominant nature plays a huge role, and they’re a lot more energetic and easily distractible.
Female Huskies are calmer and can learn new commands faster. But with patience and love, male Huskies can get there too.
Further reading: How to train a husky
5. Health Problems & Vet Expenses
Huskies are generally a healthy breed. So as long as you’re giving your pup the proper care, you shouldn’t be making lots of trips to the vet. But keep in mind you’ll need to be prepared for vet trips over a husky’s lifespan, which is usually 12 to 14 years. The average life expectancy is the same for male and female huskies.
Females will have higher vet bills at first, particularly if you get the dog spayed. Luckily, the procedure is straightforward, and the Husky will recover quickly.
Male Huskies are more prone to injuries, which could mean additional vet bills down the line, but every pup is different.
With both genders, vets recommend getting joint and hip evaluations as the dog grows older. Huskies are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia and arthritis than other breeds. If the pup is overweight, these screenings need to be done even sooner.
To learn more about the price of Huskies and their maintenance costs, visit our Husky price hub or the price of Huskies in specific countries. e.g. the Husky price in USA.
Further reading: Common husky health problems
6. Grooming
Grooming needs for male and female Huskies are generally similar, but some subtle differences might exist. Both genders have thick double coats that shed heavily twice a year, known as “blowing their coat.” During these times, extra grooming and shedding management are necessary.
Male Huskies may require more frequent brushing to manage their coarser fur, while female Huskies may need slightly less grooming due to their softer coat.
Want to learn more? Read our ultimate guide to husky grooming.
7. Speed, Strength & Endurance
Male Huskies typically exhibit greater speed and strength compared to females due to their larger size and muscular build. Their dominant and competitive nature drives them to perform with exceptional speed and excel in physically demanding tasks like sled pulling.
Both genders, however, possess impressive endurance levels, making them well-suited for long-distance activities. Individual variations and training also influence these traits.
8. Exercise
Huskies, being an energetic and active breed, require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Male Huskies tend to be more energetic and may need longer play sessions and daily physical activity to burn off their excess energy. Female Huskies, while still active, might have slightly lower exercise requirements and may be content with shorter play sessions and walks.
Further reading: How much exercise does a husky need?
9. Escaping
Both male and female Huskies have a strong instinct for exploration and may attempt to escape or wander if not properly trained and exercised. Male Huskies, with their dominant nature, might show a higher tendency to challenge boundaries and seek opportunities for adventure. Proper training, secure fencing, and regular exercise can help minimize escape tendencies in both genders.
Further reading:
10. Diet
One essential consideration when caring for male and female Huskies is their dietary requirements. Male Huskies, being larger and more energetic than their female counterparts, typically need a higher caloric intake to sustain their active lifestyle. With their muscular build and higher energy expenditure, male Huskies may require a larger portion size to maintain a healthy weight and ensure they have enough fuel for their daily activities. ♀️
On the other hand, female Huskies have a slightly smaller size and lower energy levels, which means they may need a slightly smaller portion size to avoid overfeeding and potential weight gain. Monitoring their food intake and adjusting portion sizes based on their individual activity levels is crucial to ensure they remain fit and healthy.
Not sure what to feed your husky? Read our guide to the best dog food for huskies.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Male or Female Husky?
Both male and female Huskies can make excellent companions. Choosing between the genders essentially boils down to the type of personality you prefer.
Do you want a happy-go-lucky pup that’s all about showing you love and affection at all times? Then the male Husky is for you.
Do you want a pup that’s a bit more independent and calmer but still very affectionate? Then you might prefer a female Husky instead.
Just remember that these are general gender differences. The dog you end up with will have its own personality, so don’t get too caught up in the male vs. female Husky debate.
What did you end up choosing?
Did you get a male or female Husky?
Comment below.
Further reading:
FAQ
Is male or female Husky better?
There is no definitive answer as it depends on individual preferences and the dog’s personality.
Are male huskies friendly?
Yes, male huskies can be friendly and affectionate.
Are female huskies bigger than males?
In general, male huskies tend to be larger than females.
Are male huskies cuddly?
Some male huskies can be cuddly, but it varies from dog to dog.
Are male huskies more affectionate?
Huskies can be cuddly, but it varies from dog to dog.
Is it better to get a male or female husky?
It depends on your lifestyle and what you’re looking for in a pet.
Are male huskies hard to train?
Huskies, in general, can be challenging to train due to their independent nature, regardless of gender.
What are the characteristics of a male husky?
Male huskies often exhibit strength, energy, and independence.
Should I get a female or male husky?
Consider your living situation, personal preferences, and ability to meet their needs.
What’s the difference between a male and female husky?
Differences include size, temperament, and behavior, but individual variances play a significant role.
Which husky is the best pet?
Both male and female huskies can make great pets when their needs are met.
How does a husky show affection?
Huskies can show affection through cuddling, licking, and following their owners around.
How big do female huskies get?
Female huskies typically weigh less and are smaller than males. Females usually weigh around 35 to 50 pounds and grow up to 22 inches tall.
Are female huskies small?
They are generally smaller than male huskies.
Difference between male vs female husky?
The primary differences lie in size and, sometimes, behavior, but it’s not a rule.
Are male or female huskies more aggressive?
Aggression can be present in both genders, but it depends on various factors, including training and socialization.
Do male and female huskies get along?
With proper socialization, male and female huskies can get along well.
Male vs female husky size?
Males are generally larger than females. Male Huskies = 45 to 60 pounds and up to 23 inches tall. Female Huskies = 35 to 50 pounds and up to 22 inches tall.
Which is better male or female husky?
There’s no definitive answer as it depends on your preferences and the dog’s individual personality.
Are male or female huskies more vocal?
Both genders can be just as vocal.
Are Female Huskies more aggressive?
Aggression can be present in both genders and is not specific to females.
Do female huskies shed more than male huskies?
Shedding can vary between individual dogs, regardless of gender.
Should you get another husky?
Consider factors such as space, time, and resources before getting another dog.
When do male huskies mature?
Male huskies typically reach sexual maturity between 6 to 12 months of age.
How to tell the difference between a male and female husky?
To differentiate between a male and female Husky, look at their size and physical features. Males are typically larger and more muscular, with a rugged face, while females may have softer features.
