If you’re interested in adding an Alaskan husky to your family, you may wonder how much they cost. There’s no one answer to that question, as the price of an Alaskan husky can vary depending on several factors. This comprehensive guide will look at some things that can affect how much you’ll pay for an Alaskan husky to own. So, whether you’re just starting your research or ready to buy, keep reading for all the information you need!
Alaskan Husky Breed Characteristics
Before we get into the cost of an Alaskan husky, let’s look at some of its characteristics. It will give you a better understanding of what to expect from this dog breed.
Alaskan huskies are primarily bred as working dogs and originally bred for sledding. They’re known for being high-energy, intelligent, and friendly. They’re also considered escape artists, so ensuring they have a secure home and yard is important.
- Size: Alaskan huskies come in a range of sizes, from small to large.
- Weight: 50-60 pounds for males, 40-50 pounds for females.
- Coat Type: Alaskan huskies have a thick coat that can be either short or long. They shed heavily, so you’ll need to be prepared for some regular brushing.
- Color: Alaskan huskies can be any color, from black to white.
- Lifespan: 12-14 years.
Now that you know a little more about Alaskan huskies let’s look at what affects their price.
How Much Does an Alaskan Husky Cost: The Cost Factors
There are several factors that can affect the cost of an Alaskan husky. Here are some of the things you should keep in mind:
➔Location
Alaskan huskies are more popular in some areas than others. If you live in a place where they’re not as common, you may have to pay more for one.
Furthermore, in states where Alaskan huskies are popular, there may be more breeders to choose from. It means you’re likely to find a wider range of prices.
Depending on the breeder, you may also have to pay for shipping if you’re buying an Alaskan husky from another state or country.
➔Breeder Reputation
The breeder’s reputation can also affect the price of an Alaskan husky. A well-known breeder is likely to charge more for their puppies than someone just getting started.
Breeders who have been in the market for many years and have a good reputation are usually more expensive because they often offer guarantees and have health clearances for their dogs.
On the other hand, newer breeders or those with less experience may charge less for their puppies. But it’s crucial to do your research before buying from any breeder, no matter how much they’re charging.
➔Pedigree
The dog’s pedigree can also affect the price if you buy an Alaskan husky from a breeder. An Alaskan husky with a long line of champion ancestors will cost more than one with no special lineage.
However, it’s important to remember that the pedigree doesn’t necessarily mean the Alaskan husky will be a better pet. In fact, it’s often healthier to buy a mixed-breed dog from a shelter or rescue.
➔Size
The size of an Alaskan husky can also affect its price. Larger Alaskan huskies are usually more expensive than smaller ones.
It is because larger Alaskan huskies typically eat more and may need more medical care over their lifetime. They also have shorter lives than smaller breeds.
So, if you’re looking for a smaller Alaskan husky, you may be able to find one at a lower price. But remember that they may not have all the same characteristics as their larger counterparts.
➔Color
Alaskan huskies can come in a wide range of colors. Some of the more popular colors include black, white, and brown.
Alaskan husky puppies in rare colors, like blue or red, may be more expensive than those that are more common. It is because they’re less likely to be available from breeders.
➔Markings
Alaskan huskies can also have a variety of markings on their coat. Some of the more common ones include:
- Solid color: One solid color all over their body.
- Sable: A mix of two colors, usually darker on the back and lighter on the legs, face, and chest.
- Bi-color: A combination of two colors distributed uniformly across their coat.
- Tri-color: A combination of three colors distributed uniformly across their coat.
- White with colored patches: A white coat with colored patches around the face, ears, legs, and tail.
So, if you’re looking for a specific color or marking on an Alaskan husky, be prepared to pay more.
➔Eye Color
Alaskan huskies can have a variety of eye colors, including brown, blue, green, and even one blue and one brown.
Puppies with rare eye colors may be more expensive than those with more common ones. It is because they are less likely to be available from breeders.
➔Age
The age of an Alaskan husky can also affect its price. Alaskan husky puppies are usually more expensive than adult Alaskan husky because they’re in high demand.
However, puppies require a lot of care and attention. They also need to be vaccinated and spayed or neutered. So, if you’re not ready for the extra work, an adult dog may be a better choice.
Alaskan huskies typically live for about 12-14 years. So, an adult dog may have several good years left, while a puppy will grow up to be an adult dog.
➔Spaying or Neutering
If you’re buying an Alaskan husky from a breeder, you may have to pay extra to have them spayed or neutered. It is because it’s a medical procedure that requires anesthesia and surgery.
It’s also worth noting that Alaskan huskies who are not spayed or neutered may be more expensive than those who are. It’s because they can produce litters of puppies that you can sell for a higher price.
Alaskan Husky Price Ranges
Now that you know all the factors affecting Alaskan husky prices, you’re probably wondering how much they cost.
- Alaskan puppies: $400 – $1000
- Adult Alaskan huskies: $200 – $600
- Alaskan huskies from a breeder: $500 – $2000
- Alaskan huskies from a shelter or rescue: $50 – $300
However, the average price is usually around $1000. Of course, this is just a rough approximation. The actual price of an Alaskan husky will depend on all the factors we’ve discussed.
You may have to pay more if you’re looking for a specific color or marking. If you’re looking for an adult dog, you may be able to find one at a lower price.
But remember that all Alaskan huskies are unique and worth the love and attention they’ll give you. So, no matter what price you pay, you’re sure to get a loyal friend for life.
Alaskan Huskies From Breeders vs. Shelters
Whether you adopt or buy an Alaskan husky is a personal decision that needs research. Fortunately, numerous resources help you find shelter or a reputable breeder that provides a healthy Alaskan husky.
The most important thing to consider is your readiness to provide a furry family member with everything they need throughout their lifetime. Whether it came from a breeder or a shelter, owning an Alaskan husky is a big responsibility.
Alaskan Huskies From Breeders
If you buy an Alaskan husky from a breeder, be prepared to pay more than if you adopted one from a shelter.
A good breeder will have their Alaskan husky best interests at heart and will only sell to people they feel are ready and able to provide a good home.
Be sure to visit the breeder’s facility and meet the parents of the puppy you’re interested in to ensure they’re healthy and well-cared for.
The following are the benefits and drawbacks of owning an Alaskan husky from a breeder:
Pros
- Can choose specific characteristics such as color, markings, and eye color.
- Puppies from breeders are typically well socialized from birth.
- Likely to be healthy
- Good temperament
- Provide health certificates and registration papers
Cons
- More expensive
- Puppies may be isolated from their mothers at an early age.
- May not be spayed or neutered.
- May not be up to date on vaccinations
- Alaskan Huskies from Shelters
Alaskan Huskies From Shelters
Alaskan husky from a rescue shelter will typically cost less money than one from a breeder.
Many Alaskan huskies in shelters are there because their previous owners were unprepared for the responsibility of owning a dog. Be sure to visit the shelter and meet the Alaskan husky you’re interested in adopting to ensure they’re a good fit for your lifestyle.
Adoption fees can range from $50 to $200. And most shelters will include the cost of spaying or neutering in the adoption fee.
Here are the pros and cons of owning an Alaskan husky from shelters:
Pros
- Less expensive
- Often spayed or neutered
- Up to date on vaccinations
Cons
- May have behavior issues due to previous owner neglect or abuse.
- May not be socialized since birth.
- Unknown health history.
Finding a Reputable Breeder
If you decide to purchase an Alaskan husky from a breeder, be sure to do your research to find a reputable one. You can get suggestions from your veterinarian or look for breeders online.
When you contact the breeder, ask plenty of questions about their dogs and breeding practices. A quality breeder will be able to address any concerns and will also likely have questions for you.
When looking for a reliable breeder, keep the following points in mind:
- The breeder should be able to provide health certificates for the parents of the Alaskan husky puppy you’re interested in.
- A reliable breeder should allow you to visit their facility and meet the parents of the Alaskan husky puppy.
- The breeder should be knowledgeable about Alaskan huskies and able to answer all of your questions.
- The breeder should be interested in getting to know you and your lifestyle to determine whether you’re a good fit for one of their puppies.
- The facility should be clean, and the Alaskan puppies should appear healthy and well-cared for.
- A reputable breeder will not claim that Alaskan huskies are purebreds.
Things to Consider Before Buying or Adopting an Alaskan Husky
If you’re considering buying or adopting an Alaskan husky, there are a few things you need to consider first.
Do you have the time and energy to care for a high-energy dog? Do you have a backyard for them to run and play in? Are you prepared to deal with their shedding?
Many expenses come with owning an Alaskan husky. You should be ready to spend money on it throughout its lifetime.
Food
FoodThe cost of Alaskan food will depend on the food you choose to feed them. Furthermore, the food your Alaskan husky needs will depend on age, activity level, and weight.
On average, you can expect to spend $50 to $100 per month on food. Moreover, consider the treats and chews you’ll want to give them as well.
Veterinary Care
Routine vet care is essential to keeping your Alaskan husky healthy and happy. It includes vaccinations, routine check-ups, and the occasional sick visit.
The cost of veterinary services will vary depending on where you live, the vet’s quality, and your Alaskan husky health. On average, you can expect to spend $100 to $200 per year on vet care. However, this number can be much higher if your Alaskan husky has health problems.
Emergency veterinary care can be very expensive. Be sure to have a pet insurance policy or set aside money in case of an emergency.
Neutering or Spaying
You should have your Alaskan husky neutered or spayed. It can help prevent health problems and unwanted litters of puppies.
The cost of neutering or spaying will depend on the vet you choose and the size of your dog. On average, you can likely spend between $200 to $300.
Training
Training is important for any dog breed, but it’s especially important for high-energy breeds like Alaskan huskies. They must learn how to behave in various situations and around different people.
The cost of training will depend on the type of training you choose and the course length. On average, you can expect to spend $50 to $200 on training.
Shelter
If you live in a cold climate, you’ll need to provide your Alaskan husky with a shelter to protect them from the elements. It could be anything from a doghouse to a kennel.
The cost of a shelter will depend on the size and type of shelter you choose. On average, you can expect to spend $100 to $500 on a shelter.
Grooming
Alaskan huskies have a thick coat of fur that needs brushing regularly. They also require bathing and nail trimming.
The cost of grooming will depend on how often you take them to the groomer and the type of services you choose. The grooming costs between $30 to $50 per month on average.
License and Microchip
Most states require that you license your Alaskan husky. The license cost will depend on the state you live in and the license length.
A microchip is a small chip implanted under your dog’s skin. The chip carries data about you and your Alaskan husky. If your Alaskan husky ever gets lost, the microchip can help them find its way home.
The cost of a microchip will depend on the vet you choose. On average, you can expect to spend $30 to $50 for the microchip and insertion.
Other Expenses
Additional costs are associated with keeping an Alaskan husky, such as toys, leashes, and collars. You should also expect to spend money on doggy daycare and dog-sitting when you go out of town.
On average, you can expect to spend $50 to $100 per year on these additional expenses.
Money-Saving Tips on Owning Alaskan Husky
Though it is unavoidable to spend money when you own an Alaskan husky, there are ways to cut down on the cost.
Here are a few tips:
- Buy food in bulk: Alaskan food and treats can be expensive. To save money, buy them bulk from online retailers or pet stores.
- Make your own shelter: If you’re handy, consider making your own doghouse or kennel. It can be a great way to save money.
- Brush their fur yourself: Brushing your Alaskan huskies fur is a great way to bond with them. It can also save you money on grooming bills.
- Invest in high-quality essentials: When it comes to things like beds, leashes, and collars, it’s worth investing in high-quality items. They will last longer and save you money in the long run.
- Make your own dog food: Homemade food for your Alaskan husky can be healthy and cost-effective. There are a lot of recipes available online that you can follow.
- Create your own toys: Toys for your Alaskan husky can be expensive. Get creative and make your own out of things you have around the house.
- Take advantage of discounts: Many pet stores offer discounts for loyalty cards or multiple pets. Inquire about these discounts when you’re shopping for your Alaskan husky.
- Regular vet visit: Having a good relationship with your vet is important. They can offer advice on keeping your Alaskan husky healthy and often offer discounts for loyal customers.
- Coupons: Many websites offer coupons for pet products and services. Do some research, and you could save a lot of money.
- Get pet insurance: You will never know when your Alaskan husky might need expensive medical care. Pet insurance coverage can help cover these costs, ease the financial burden, and eventually save money.
- Do your research: Before buying an Alaskan husky, do your research. It includes looking into the cost of ownership and whether or not the breed is a good fit for your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can Alaskan huskies get along with cats?
Alaskan huskies are not typically aggressive towards cats but may see them as prey. It’s the instinct of the Alaskan husky to hunt. If you have a cat and are considering getting an Alaskan husky, it’s important to socialize them early on. Introduce them slowly and supervise their interactions.
Q. Do Alaskan huskies shed a lot?
Alaskan huskies shed their coats twice a year. During these times, they will shed more heavily than usual. Brushing them regularly will help to lessen the amount of shedding.
Q. How often should I bathe my Alaskan husky?
Alaskan huskies only need to be bathed when they are dirty. It could be once a month or once every few months, depending on their activity level and the climate they live in.
Alaskan huskies are self-cleaning, so they do not need to be bathed as often as other breeds of dogs. Moreover, they do not stink as easily as other breeds.
Q. Is it common for Alaskan huskies to explore or wander?
Alaskan huskies are known to be active and adventurous. They have a strong instinct to wander, so keeping them on a leash or in a fenced-in area is important.
You can walk them off-leash in safe areas, but always keep an eye on them and have a good voice command over them.
Q. Are Alaskan huskies and Alaskan malamute the same?
No, Alaskan huskies and Alaskan malamutes are two different breeds. Alaskan huskies are bred for sledding and racing, while Alaskan malamutes are for hauling heavy loads.
Alaskan huskies are also typically smaller than Alaskan malamutes. Alaskan huskies have a leaner build and a more refined head, while Alaskan malamutes have a stockier build and a coarser head.
Q. Can Alaskan huskies survive in hot weather?
Alaskan huskies are used to cold weather, but they can survive in hot weather if they have access to shade and water. They should not be kept outside in hot weather for an extended time since they can quickly overheat. When it’s hot, it’s best to keep Alaskan huskies inside in air-conditioning. If they must be outside, ensure they have enough water and shade.
Final Thoughts
Owning an Alaskan husky is a big commitment. It is a beautiful dog breed that will bring you years of joy. However, consider the cost of ownership before deciding to add one to your family.
Do you have an Alaskan husky? How much do you pay to own one? How much did you spend on them in their first year? Let us know in the comments below.