The Agouti Husky is a strikingly beautiful dog breed that has been gaining popularity in recent years. With its unique coat pattern and bright blue or brown eyes, it’s no wonder why people are drawn to this breed. But what exactly is an agouti Siberian Husky, and what makes them different from other husky colors and patterns?
In addition to their striking appearance, Agouti Huskies are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. These dogs also need a no-pull harness instead of a traditional harness to prevent their sled-pulling tendencies from kicking in. You can read our article to learn how to differentiate between the two harnesses.
The Agouti Husky is a fascinating breed that is sure to turn heads wherever they go. So we’ve looked at some expert sources on Huskies and the agouti color pattern for everything you want to know before you search for agouti Husky puppies for sale.”
So, What is an Agouti Husky?
An Agouti Husky is a type of Siberian Husky with a unique coat pattern. The agouti gene causes the individual hairs to have bands of different colors, resulting in a wolf-like appearance. In fact, they are also called wolf sable Huskies. This breed is highly energetic and requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
The best way to describe an Agouti Husky is that it’s a Husky that looks like a straight-up wolf. Check out this stunning pup.
While agouti is not a rare pattern in the animal kingdom, it is relatively uncommon in domestic dogs, making the Agouti Husky truly unique and eye-catching.
This breed is highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, from apartments to large homes with yards. Keep in mind that these pups scream, talk, bark, and yodel, as is the way of a Husky. So you may want to know how much your dog can comfortably bark in your neighborhood and learn how to tune down your dog’s noise.
Overall, the Agouti Husky is a beautiful and unique breed that makes a great companion for active individuals or families who can provide them with the exercise and attention they need.
History of the Agouti Husky
Agouti Huskies are simply purebred Siberian Husky whose coats have a “primitive” or ancient coat color pattern they got from their wolf ancestors. Agouti has always existed naturally in the Husky breed, since they are a relatively wolf-like breed.
We can therefore look at the Siberian Husky’s history to know where the Agoutis came from.
Huskies originated in northeastern Siberia, where it was developed by the Chukchi people, an indigenous group living in the harsh Arctic environment. Studies suggest that sled-type dogs from where Huskies and Malamutes originated existed more than 9000 years ago.
These dogs possessed exceptional endurance, strength, and agility, making them well-suited for pulling heavy loads over vast distances in extreme weather conditions. Their thick double coats provided insulation and protected them from freezing temperatures.
The real defining point came in 1909 a team of Siberian Huskies made headlines by covering more than 650 miles in just over six days to deliver lifesaving diphtheria serum to Nome, Alaska. Since then, Huskies of all acceptable colors and varieties have skyrocketed in popularity. Today, Huskies are athletic companions and are the basis for many designer breeds, such as:
- Teacup Huskies; and
- The Horgi.
How Does the Agouti Color Develop In Huskies? Agouti Genetics
Agouti in Huskies is a pattern rather than a color and is caused by a specific gene called the agouti gene. This gene is responsible for producing the banding pattern of red/yellow and black/gray hair on each hair. Specifically, each hair will have a yellow or lighter band that is black or darker toward the edge.
The Husky will also have a darker coat of black tipped hair on their back and neck and a band of dark coat on the muzzle from between the eyes down to the nose.This pattern is an ancient one you can see many wild animals, but is probably closest to coat and color you find in the timber wolf.
To get an agouti-colored Husky, both parents must carry the agouti (aw) gene. This part is little technical.
Essentially, the agouti gene works by causing red to yellow pheomelanin to be produced, while the competing molecule α-MSH signals the production of brown to black eumelanin. A study on Agouti mice proved this competitive cycle.
In simpler terms, the mixed colors in each hair strand result from bands of yellow or tan, which grew during agouti production, and black which grew during α-MSH production. This means that the Agouti gene and a-MSH gene both just want to be seen. So, during hair growth, the new hair starts as black, giving a dark tip, and becomes brown or yellow.
The coat is also lighter on the lower areas of the dog, such as the belly. Having a coat that is darker on top is called countershading, and experts suggest that is important for protection from the sun and for camouflage.
Breeding Agouti Huskies can be a bit tricky, as the agouti gene is recessive. This means that both parents must carry the gene for it to be expressed in their offspring. Breeders specializing in Agouti Huskies will carefully select breeding pairs to ensure both parents carry the Agouti gene.
What is the Difference Between a Husky and an Agouti Husky?
The most obvious difference between a Husky and an Agouti Husky is their coat coloration. Huskies typically have a white or cream-colored coat with black or gray markings. In contrast, Agouti Huskies have a more unique coat coloration resembling a wild wolf. Their coat is typically a mix of black, gray, and brown, with each individual hair having multiple bands of color.
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Physical Characteristics of the Agouti Husky
What Does an Agouti Husky Look Like?
The agouti Husky looks like a normal Husky, but with the rare agouti coat pattern. Huskies are already known to resemble wolves, and Agouti Huskies are even more wolf-like, thanks to their coat.
They are also extremely athletic and lean, with a muscular build that makes them well-suited for various outdoor activities. Huskies have strong, medium-sized legs with well-developed muscles, allowing them to have good endurance and agility.
Their eyes are almond-shaped, blue, brown, hazel, or parti-colored eyes. It’s also possible for them to have one blue eye and one of a different color, a trait known as “heterochromia.” The ears are erect and set high on the head.
The best way to identify an Agouti husky is the dark color on its head and face. Most of the other colored Huskies have plain white on their head, chest, and feet.
Their coats are thick and plush, providing warmth and protection in colder climates.
How Big Does an Agouti Husky Get?
The agouti Husky is a medium to large-sized breed, with males typically being larger than females. On average, they typically weigh between 35 to 60 pounds (16 to 27 kg). They can stand anywhere from 20 to 24 inches (51 to 61 cm) tall at the shoulder.
Personality and Temperament of the Agouti Husky
Agouti Huskies are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, just like any Siberian Husky. They are highly social and love to be around people and other animals. They are also very intelligent and curious, making them great companions for those who enjoy spending time outdoors.
But be warned, two things that Huskies are known for; noise and being escape artists. These dogs aren’t scared of giving you a piece of their mind and are certainly not for everyone. Rumor has it that if a dog was to evolve into talking, it would be the Husky.
Tell us this Husky isn’t having an entire conversation:
One of the most notable traits of the Agouti Husky is their high energy level. They have a natural instinct to run and play and require plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. This makes them great for active individuals or families who enjoy hiking, running, or other outdoor activities.
Agouti Huskies can be a bit stubborn at times. They are known to have a strong will and can be difficult to train if not approached with patience and consistency. Think of Huskies as the cat version of dogs, who will choose whether or not to listen to you (proper training will help). You can read more in our article on how to discipline dogs the kind way if you need help creating boundaries for your Husky.
Are Agouti Huskies Good with Other Dogs?
Agouti Huskies are generally good with other dogs and enjoy playing and socializing with them. They were bred to pull sleds in packs and therefore form deep inter-canine bonds. It’s, therefore, best to have more than one Husky.
It is also important to note that Agouti Huskies have a strong prey drive, which means they may be more inclined to chase and hunt smaller animals, including other dogs. This is why it is important to supervise them when they are around smaller dogs or other animals.
Are Agouti Huskies good with children and families?
Agouti Huskies are known to be friendly and sociable dogs that can get along well with children and families. However, it is important to note that each dog has its own personality and temperament, so it is essential to assess the individual dog’s behavior and socialization skills before introducing them to children or families.
Health and Lifespan of the Agouti Husky
Common Health Issues
As with any breed of dog, the agouti Husky is prone to certain health issues. According to Dr. Alex Gough, some of the most common health issues that may affect this breed include:
- Hip dysplasia: This genetic condition results in the hip joint not forming properly. It can cause pain, limping, and arthritis.
- Eye problems: Agouti Huskies may be prone to eye problems such as juvenile cataracts.
- Skin issues: This breed may be prone to skin allergies and infections, which can cause itching, redness, and hair loss.
- Hypothyroidism is a hormonal disorder where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. Symptoms may include weight gain, hair loss, and lethargy.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Agouti Huskies are known to have a higher risk of autoimmune disorders such as autoimmune thyroiditis, lupus, and pemphigus.
- Seizure Disorders: Epilepsy and other seizure disorders can occur in Huskies. The exact cause is often unknown, but it is believed to have a genetic component.
- Zinc Deficiency: Huskies can be prone to zinc deficiency, which can cause issues like hair loss, skin problems, and a weakened immune system.
- Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC): Some Huskies may experience muscle weakness or collapse episodes after intense exercise or excitement.
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): Also known as bloat, this condition involves the stomach twisting on itself, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention.
- Von Willebrand’s Disease: It is an inherited bleeding disorder that affects the blood’s ability to clot properly, potentially causing excessive bleeding.
How long do Agouti Huskies live?
On average, Agouti Huskies have a lifespan of 12-14 years. However, this can vary depending on factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health. To help ensure a long and healthy life for your Agouti Husky, it is important to provide proper nutrition, regular exercise, and preventative veterinary care.
Care and Maintenance of the Agouti Husky
What Should Agouti Huskies Eat?
The Agouti Husky is an active breed that requires a well-balanced diet to maintain their health and energy levels. It is recommended to feed them high-quality dog food containing a balanced ratio of protein (at least 25%), fat, carbohydrates, minerals, and fiber.
Additionally, it is essential to monitor their food intake and avoid overfeeding, which can lead to obesity and other health issues. Owners should always provide fresh water and avoid feeding them human food, which can cause digestive problems.
Exercise Requirements
The Agouti Husky is a highly active breed that requires plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They need at least 2 hours of vigorous daily exercise, such as running, hiking, or playing fetch.
Owners should also provide mental stimulation through training and interactive toys to keep these brilliant dogs engaged. It is important to note that the Agouti Husky has a strong prey drive and should always be kept on a leash or in a secure, fenced area to prevent them from running off.
How To Groom An Agouti Husky
Brushing
Agouti Huskies have a thick, double coat that molts (sheds heavily) twice a year. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent matting and tangles. Use a slicker brush or a comb with wide teeth to remove loose fur and debris. Brush in the direction of hair growth to avoid hurting the skin.
Also see our article on how to reduce shedding.
Bathing
Agouti Huskies do not need frequent bathing. Bathing them once every month is enough to keep them clean. Use a mild dog shampoo and warm water to avoid skin irritation. Rinse thoroughly to remove all the shampoo residue.
Nail Trimming
Agouti Huskies have strong, fast-growing nails that need trimming every three to four weeks. Trim the nails using a sharp dog nail clipper and avoid cutting too close to the quick, which is the pink part of the nail that contains blood vessels.
Teeth Cleaning
Agouti Huskies are prone to dental problems, so regular teeth cleaning is essential. Brush their teeth twice a week with a soft-bristled dog toothbrush and dog toothpaste and alternate with dog oral rinses.
Can You Shave An Agouti Husky?
Shaving an agouti Husky is not recommended. Their double coat protects them from both heat and cold, and shaving it can cause skin irritation and sunburn. Shaving can also stop the hair growing back properly and permanently damage the coat.
Training an Agouti Husky
Training an agouti Husky can be a challenging task, but with patience and consistency, it can be a rewarding experience for both the owner and the dog. Socialization and obedience training are the most important Husky training aspects.
Huskies are one of the most difficult breeds to train because of how independent they are. So, It is important to start training your Agouti Husky as early as possible. Starting training early will help establish a strong foundation and make it easier to train them as they get older.
To prove Husky independence, this Husky looks like He’s saying, “ You’re lucky I’m doing this hooman” in a competition
In the video below, Animal Watch has an agouti Husky to answer the question if Huskies can be trained.
Ideal Home for an Agouti Husky
- Active individuals (see our article on workouts with dogs);
- A home with a yard and an extremely secure fence;
- Non-allergic households capable of dealing with heavy shedding;
- People who don’t mind a bit of noise (see lots of howling); and
- Multi-pet households, especially other Huskies or pack-orientated dogs.
Where to Get an Agouti Husky
Adoption Options
Adopting an agouti Husky from a rescue organization or shelter is an excellent way to provide a loving home to a dog in need. Here are a few resources to help you find an Agouti Husky for adoption:
- Petfinder: This website allows you to search for adoptable pets in your area. You can filter by breed, age, and other criteria to find an Agouti Husky that fits your lifestyle.
- Husky Haven of Florida: This organization rescues and rehabilitates Huskies, including Agouti Huskies, and helps them find their forever homes.
- Adopt-a-Pet: This website allows you to search for adoptable pets in your area and filter by breed, age, and other criteria.
Breeder Information
If you decide to purchase an agouti Husky from a breeder, it’s essential to do your research and find a reputable breeder. Here are a few things to consider:
- Health Clearances: A responsible breeder will have health clearances for their breeding dogs, which can help prevent genetic health issues in their puppies.
- Socialization: A good breeder will socialize their puppies from an early age, which can help them adapt to new environments and people.
- References: Ask for references from previous puppy buyers and contact them to get an idea of their experience with the breeder.
Here are a few resources to help you find a reputable Agouti Husky breeder:
- American Kennel Club: The AKC has a breeder referral program that can help you find a breeder in your area.
- Siberian Husky Club Of America: This club is an AKC-registered breed club that promotes the education surrounding the Siberian Husky, and can direct you to ethical breeders who extensively health test their dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are some dog breeds with agouti coloring?
Agouti coloring is relatively rare and can be found in several dog breeds, including Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Shiba Inus, Caucasian Shepherds, German Shepherds, and Norwegian Elkhounds. However, it’s important to note that not all dogs with agouti coloring are purebred.
Why are Agouti Huskies rare?
Agouti Huskies are rare because the Agouti gene is recessive and not as common as other coat colors. Additionally, breeding for specific coat colors can be challenging and requires careful selection of breeding pairs.
How much do Agouti Husky puppies cost?
The cost of agouti Husky puppies can vary depending on several factors, such as the breeder, location, and demand. On average, they can cost anywhere from $1000 to $3000 or more.
Do Agouti Huskies shed?
Yes, agouti Huskies do shed. They have a thick double coat that sheds heavily twice a year during shedding season. Regular grooming and brushing can help minimize shedding.
Is an Agouti husky hypoallergenic?
No, agouti Huskies are not hypoallergenic. They shed heavily and can trigger allergies in people who are sensitive to pet dander. However, some people with allergies may find that they can tolerate certain breeds better than others.
Final Thoughts
Agouti Huskies are a unique and stunning breed of dog. If you’re interested in getting one, there are a few things you need to know about how to get an Agouti-colored Husky. It’s important to note that while agouti Huskies are beautiful dogs, they are not for everyone. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation and can be quite stubborn and independent.
Meet Your Experts
Author
Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.