Mini Husky: Facts About the Miniature Husky (With Pictures)

Mini Siberian Husky puppy near the window

If you love Siberian Huskies but want a smaller dog, you might want to consider taking home their smaller version — the miniature Siberian Husky. 

Miniature Huskies have the same features as the standard Siberian Husky, except they are smaller. These dogs have the same energy, loyalty, and personality but should be much easier to take care of, given their small size. 

This guide will tackle everything you need to know about the equally-loved mini Husky — from its history and appearance to the cost of owning this dog breed. Let’s start! 

Breed Overview

Height:12 – 17 inches
Weight:15 – 35 pounds 
Lifespan:12 – 15 years
Coat Colors:Black and white, red and white, grey and white, sage and white, agouti, and all white. 
Temperament:Intelligent, loyal, affectionate, active
Suitable for:Families with an active lifestyle; experienced owners

What Is a Mini Husky? 

Excited mini Husky on white background

The mini Husky is a smaller version of the popular and well-loved Siberian Husky. Though they are almost half the size of a standard Husky, these miniature Huskies are just as intelligent, devoted, and hard-working. These dogs make great family pets for many people, especially experienced owners.

Due to their size, mini Huskies have been growing in popularity over the years, as it is a great alternative to Huskies since they do not occupy too much space and generally require less maintenance. 

Although the miniature Husky puppy is a carbon copy of the standard-sized Siberian Husky, it is not a recognized breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Siberian Husky Club of America (SHCA).

As a result, miniature Huskies are ineligible to participate in activities and dog shows hosted by the said organizations. It is also worth mentioning that miniature Huskies are different from teacup Huskies

Mini Husky Origin and History

Siberian Huskies were originally developed by the Chukchi people of the Chukchi Peninsula in Eastern Siberia. Despite being originally bred to be working dogs, many families kept the breed as a companion dog. 

In 1908, the Siberian Husky breed was brought to Nome, Alaska, and was used as sled dogs and, later on, in sled dog racing. 

These sled dogs rose to popularity by saving Nome during a diphtheria epidemic when a team of Siberian Huskies crossed hundreds of miles under blizzard conditions to deliver a life-saving serum. 

However, it was only in the 1990s when the first miniature Husky was bred by Bree Normandin through selective breeding. 

To develop a companion version of the popular Siberian Husky, Normandin started mixing the smallest puppies in each litter, which are called the runts, until she was able to create a miniature version. 

It was only in 2004 that the miniature Siberian breed became available to the public. It didn’t take too long before the breed gained popularity, as it was a great choice for families wanting a smaller Husky. 

To this day, there are over 30 different variations of the Husky breed. The regular Siberian Husky and mini Husky are only two of them.

Mini Husky Size and Weight

Red mini Husky on white background

A miniature husky is a small dog that stands between 12 and 17 inches tall and weighs about 15 to 35 pounds when fully grown. These dogs are just half the size of a regular-sized Husky.

Note, however, that there could be a significant difference between the size of a female miniature Husky and a male miniature Husky. Like other dogs, males tend to grow a bit larger than females. 

Since the miniature Husky is a smaller breed, they typically stop growing by the time they reach 6 to 8 months. This is in contrast to the regular Siberian Husky, which reaches its full adult size at 12 months old. 

It is also important to remember that several other factors play a huge role in affecting a mini Husky’s size and weight, including its gender, genetics, overall health status, and diet. 

Regardless, given that the miniature Husky is a smaller version of the Siberian Husky, you should expect to get a miniature dog suitable for an apartment living setup.

Mini Husky Appearance

Mini Husky smiling isolated on white background

The miniature Husky breed has the same wolf-like appearance as the Siberian Husky. These dogs have moderately compact bodies with erect ears and a well-furred, adorable curly tail. 

They flaunt a medium-length double coat that comes in a variety of colors, such as black & white, red & white, grey & white, sage & white, agouti, and pure white. 

You may also find brown-colored mini Huskies, but they can be quite rare and hard to find. Miniature Huskies may often have white markings and patterns that may resemble a mask. 

As with their almond-shaped eyes, mini Huskies can have different eye colors, including blue, brown, bi-eyed, or parti-eyed. Also, mini Huskies, like their standard-sized cousins, often sport curly tails.

To visualize what a miniature Husky dog looks like, watch this video:

Molly pure breed Mini Husky

Mini Husky Lifespan and Health Issues

Similar to the standard-sized Husky, a miniature Husky is a relatively healthy breed with an average lifespan of around 12 to 15 years, given enough love and veterinary care. 

However, note that a healthy miniature Husky may still be susceptible to health problems. These health problems can potentially put the life of your healthy dog at risk, which is why veterinary visits are a must.

Here are some of the most prevalent health problems seen in miniature Husky dogs:

  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Progressive retinal atrophy is a hereditary condition that impairs a dog’s vision. It affects the cells of the retina called rods and cones, which pick up light, movement, and color. Unfortunately, progressive retinal atrophy eventually leads to blindness in dogs. 
  • Follicular Dysplasia: This disorder that is brought on by an abnormality in your dog’s hair follicle is often seen in Siberian Huskies. Follicular dysplasia will manifest as progressive hair loss or abnormal hair growth in your miniature Husky.
  • Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid is an endocrine disorder that is quite common in dogs. This disorder leads to a reduction in the mini Husky’s metabolic state. Common signs of the disorder may include weight gain, coat and skin changes, and lethargy.

Miniature Huskies may be healthy dogs, but dog owners should still bring them to the veterinarian for their routine check-ups. This is to make sure they are in tip-top shape. 

Purchasing pet insurance will also help miniature Husky owners protect their finances and be able to give the best medical care when their dogs need medical attention.

Mini Husky Temperament and Personality

Miniature Husky running while on a leash

When it comes to miniature Husky temperament, you can expect these dogs to be intelligent, loyal, and affectionate. Like the regular-sized Husky, the miniature version gets along with everyone and loves attention. 

This breed is definitely not a lap dog, though. Despite their size, they are still considered working dogs. The good thing is that they are not as energetic as the regular Husky.

Though they have an above-average activity level for a small-sized dog breed, miniature Huskies are very adaptable. This makes them a good option for families in an apartment setup. 

Note, however, that like the standard Husky, this mini version also has a high prey drive. Keep small animals away from these dogs, as they may have tendencies to chase them.

All in all, if you’re asking yourself, “are miniature Huskies good pets?” Then the short answer is yes!

How to Take Care of Your Miniature Husky

Knowing how to properly take care of your miniature Husky helps them stay healthy and become better family dogs. That said, it is important that you know their needs and what you need to provide as a fur parent. 

Below are detailed tips on taking the best care of your mini Husky puppy.

Food and Diet

A miniature Husky may be small in size, but since this dog is quite active, its diet should match its activity level. That said, you must make sure that you are feeding it the right amount of food with the correct nutrients. 

Depending on your choice and budget, you can opt to feed your dog with dry dog food, wet dog food, or home-cooked meals. 

Note that your miniature Husky will eat everything you put in its bowl as they are not picky eaters. This is why you should control the portions you give them to avoid obesity

Just remember that there may be foods that are not allowed to be consumed by miniature Husky puppies.

Cleaning and Grooming

Miniature Huskies are quite high-maintenance in terms of grooming. This dog will require its owners to commit to daily brushing of its coats, especially since it sheds a lot. 

The good thing, however, is that mini Huskies are among the cleanest of dog breeds, which means you should only bathe your dog when necessary.

You may also need to trim their nails and clean their ears to avoid possible infections. Additionally, remember to brush the teeth of your miniature Husky puppies to avoid tartar buildup and similar dental diseases

Training and Exercise

A miniature Husky loves to play and run around. They may not be as highly energetic as the Siberian Husky, but they still have quite an above-average energy level for a dog of their size. 

That said, mini Huskies need just as much exercise as the standard Siberian Husky. Dog owners must give them at least 30 minutes of exercise and playtime and provide daily physical and mental stimulation.

Remember that pent-up energy is one of the reasons why dogs resort to destructive animal behavior, such as chewing furniture and shredding household items. 

Training-wise, you need to start your miniature Husky puppy with obedience and potty training while still young. Huskies can be stubborn, which might make training harder when they are already old. 

How Much Does a Mini Husky Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses

Miniature Husky exploring outdoors

The price tag of a mini Husky might be higher than the usual price range of miniature breeds. It ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 and may even increase depending on your location, bloodline, and the breeder’s reputation. 

The expenses, however, do not end there. Mini Husky parents also need to set aside funds for the puppy’s supplies, vaccines, and other needs.

Here is the initial cost of expenses that you need to consider when you take home a miniature Husky puppy: 

Type of ExpenseCost
Food and Treats$30 – $80
Bowls$10 – $30
Toys$20 – $30
Beds$30 – $200
Collars and Leashes$15 – $50
Crates and Carriers$30 – $200
Grooming Essentials$50 – $150
Initial Vet Visits$100 – $500
Initial Vaccine Shots$50 – $300
Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications$40 – $300
Neutering or Spaying$50 – $500
Microchipping$40 – $60
Dog License$10 – $20
Other Essentials$20 – $50
Total Initial Cost$495 – $2,470

Aside from these initial supplies and services, you also need to allocate funds for your mini Husky’s monthly and annual expenses.

Places to Find Mini Husky Puppies for Sale and Adoption

Unfortunately, finding miniature Husky breeders can be quite difficult. Furthermore, there are a lot of unethical breeders who produce this miniature dog by crossing dogs with the dwarfism gene.

Luckily, there are a few reputable sources where you may find healthy and ethically bred mini Huskies.

To start your search for a reputable breeder, here are places where you can find a mini Husky for sale:

  • Miniature Siberian Huskies – This North Carolina breeder produces quality miniature Huskies on a limited basis, which explains why they maintain an active waiting list. They are committed to producing sound miniature Huskies that are healthy and happy members of the family. 
  • Greenfield Puppies – Greenfield Puppies is a pet advertising website that has been matching puppies with loving families since 2000. They have several Siberian Husky breeders on their website, so it’s best to check with each of them to see if they have mini Husky puppies available.
  • Lancaster Puppies – This is another pet website that caters to different dog breeds, including Siberian Huskies. They have almost a hundred Siberian Husky listings, which means you have more chances of finding a mini Husky from there. Breeders from Lancaster Puppies go through strict breeding regulations, so you are assured you are buying from a reputable breeder. 

Instead of buying from a breeder, you can also opt for adoption. Not only do you save money, but you also get to give a dog a second chance at life.

Here are some places where you can find a mini Husky for adoption:

  • Husky House – Husky House is dedicated to helping stray, abandoned, and unwanted Siberian Huskies in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut areas. They give rescued dogs a second chance in life and help them find a place to call their own.
  • Texas Husky Rescue – This non-profit organization rescues, rehabilitates, and finds new homes for neglected and unwanted Siberian Husky dogs. They have volunteer foster families where rescued dogs stay until they find loving homes to take them in.
  • AZ Husky Rescue – AZ Husky Rescue focuses on helping homeless Siberian Huskies with medical needs in the Arizona area. They have a couple of Husky dog breeds up for adoption, so it’s best to check if a miniature Husky is available. However, note that they have specific home requirements before adoption to ensure the miniature Husky lives comfortably. 

To boost your chances of finding a miniature Husky breed for adoption, you can also leverage social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. 

Miniature Siberian Husky vs. Alaskan Klee Kai: What’s the Difference?

Mini Husky vs. Alaskan Klee Kai

To set things straight, Alaskan Klee Kais (AKK) are not mini Huskies. This is in contrast to what some breeders claim to be. The two are completely different breeds with the same wolf-like appearance. 

The Alaskan Klee Kai is a recognized breed by the United Kennel Club. Although not yet officially recognized by the American Kennel Club, it has already been accepted into its stock service. 

Unlike miniature Huskies that only come in one size, the AKK comes in standard, miniature, and toy sizes. While both breeds are small dogs, mini Huskies are typically smaller than the Alaskan Klee Kai. 

Appearance-wise, the main difference between the two is their color. A Klei Kai only comes in three colors, unlike the miniature Husky, which is available in a variety of different colors. 

As with their personalities, both make great companion dogs, but the Alaskan Klee Kai can be aloof around strangers, as opposed to the friendly and highly-sociable miniature Husky.

The resemblance between the two breeds is uncanny, and it could be because they share some of their roots with their Husky ancestors. 

Nevertheless, both the miniature Husky and the Alaskan Klee Kai possess individual traits that make them special in their own ways. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Miniature Husky exploring outdoors 1

Are Mini Huskies Good Dogs?

Yes, mini Huskies are great dogs, especially when trained properly. These designer dogs make great family pets because they are loyal and affectionate. 

These dogs are good with kids and get along with everyone in the family because they love human interaction.

Do Mini Huskies Shed?

Yes, mini Huskies shed profusely throughout the year, but these dogs shed more heavily during spring and fall. That said, they may not be a great option for individuals with allergies. 

Daily brushing sessions can be very helpful in lessening their shedding. Families with this breed are also recommended to invest in a high-quality vacuum cleaner. 

Are Miniature Huskies High Maintenance?

Since this breed has the same needs, background, and energy level as Huskies, expect that your mini Huskies will also be high maintenance in terms of interaction, exercise, and grooming. 

The good news is that mini Huskies can be much easier to handle because of the significant difference in size and may require fewer resources than owning a Siberian Husky.

Are Miniature Huskies Easy to Train?

Since mini Huskies are intelligent dogs, training them can be pretty easy. However, these dogs are very energetic and can be stubborn, which can get in the way of training. 

Positive reinforcement can be very helpful in training. Also, make sure to have treats available and be patient. 

Final Thoughts

Needless to say, a mini Husky makes a wonderful family dog! Aside from its adorable looks, this Husky’s smaller version will surely add joy to your home without taking up too much space.

However, owning this luxury breed entails responsibilities. This dog needs an owner that is willing to put up with its high energy levels and provide for its needs. 

Above all, it requires someone who can commit to taking care of and loving this dog throughout its lifetime. 

Do you think you can take care of this miniature dog? Let us know your thoughts about the miniature Siberian Husky in the comments!

Leave a Comment

You may also like