Have you heard about the Agouti Husky? They are also commonly known as the Wolf Like Husky, and the reason why is pretty obvious! These dogs absolutely look like wolves.
Agouti is a gene that can be found in a variety of animals, including horses, mice, and dogs. It controls the amount and distribution of melanin.
Different expressions of the gene can lead a dog to appear fawn or sable (as in German Shepherds or King German Shepherds), have tan tips, or have the wild-type coloring.
The term “Agouti Husky” refers to a Husky with wild-type coloration, sometimes known as wolf sable. A wild-type colored dog’s individual hair contains multiple black and tan bands alternating in hue.
If you want to learn more about them, keep reading.
What Does “Agouti” Mean?
You might be surprised to learn that agouti is not a different breed of Husky. It’s known as “wild-type” coloring because it’s widely seen in wild animals like wolves, rabbits, and rodents.
A unique colouring in an agouti Siberian Husky is many banded hair strands, cream light markings instead of white, and darker markings on the tail and face. Nonetheless, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard, agouti is one of the traditional coat colors for Siberian Huskies.
An agouti Husky’s hair strands are banded, which indicates that the color changes from the root to the tip. The banding pattern is typically black at the base, light color in the stem (cream, tan, and red), and black at the hair tip. The coat appears to be striped as a result of this.
Agouti Huskies feature cream-colored light markings instead of white, which distinguishes them from other Husky colors and patterns. In comparison to other coat colors, their mask and tail are also darker. It’s worth noting that the majority of agouti Huskies come from working and racing lines rather than show lines.
Because most Huskies bred for conformation shows have only pure white markings, the agouti trait has not been handed down for years.
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What Makes an Agouti Husky unique?
As previously stated, the agouti Husky is a coat color variant rather than a breed. In terms of build, the agouti Husky is very similar to the other Huskies. The only notable distinction between an agouti Siberian and their other colored cousins is the color of their coat.
They have a “dirty colour” that is undesirable in the show ring because they are usually born from racing and working lines. In comparison to other Husky coat varieties, they have cream markings instead of white and a darker face color.
Is the Agouti Husky rare?
Yes, they are really rare. Show breeders are unlikely to produce an agouti Husky. Contacting breeders of working/sled-dog racing lines is your best choice if you want to get an agouti Husky. But be careful!
You should never choose a dog simply on the basis of its appearance (this also applies to getting a Husky solely because of their eye color). Huskies of all hues (agouti and others) are high-energy worker dogs with a genetic predisposition to run large distances.
Most families looking for a pet and companion animal will not be a good fit for them. Do not get a Husky unless you have a lot of space and the capacity to let him run every day.
Are they still purebred?
Agouti Siberian Huskies are purebred Siberian Huskies. Crossbreeding or mutation did not result in the unique and distinctive coat color. It has something to do with the dog’s overall appearance, which is determined by heredity.
When purchasing an agouti Husky, however, keep in mind that other crossbreeds can have similar coat colors. The Alaskan Husky, for example, is a crossbreed between a Siberian Husky, a German Shorthaired Pointer, and a Greyhound.
You should inquire for the dog’s pedigree or AKC registration to guarantee that the agouti Husky you’re buying is purebred. The utilization of the aforementioned papers can be used to trace its lineage.
Agouti Siberian Husky History
The history and origins of the Agouti Siberian Husky is basically the same as with any other Siberian Husky. All of them come from Siberia and have been around for hundreds and hundreds of years. So they’re all Siberian dogs with a long history.
Their ancestor was the Taymyr wolf, and they descended from a Siberian nomadic clan known as the Chukchi. Huskies were a more practical form of transportation for the Chukchi and a warm friend for their children. They were sled dogs with a lot of heart and affection.
Huskies were first transported into Alaska in 1908, during the height of the gold rush. This is how the Agouti Husky made its way to the United States. A dogsled race was also held for all Siberian Huskies. The last Siberian Huskies were imported out of Russia when it closed its borders in 1903.
In North America, these dogs absolutely flourished. As the years passed, their appearances changed a little, but their personalities remained the same.
The Siberian Club of America was founded in 1938. This was after the American Kennel Club approved the breed in 1930. The breed was approved by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1939. According to Kennel Clubs, the agouti color is one of the standard Siberian Husky hues.
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What genes causes the Agouti coloration?
The most important aspect impacting a dog’s appearance is genetics. The color and pattern of a dog’s coat depends on the dominant genes he or she has inherited.
Melanocytes, which are cells that generate pigments, produce two fundamental pigments in the body (of any dog). These pigments are red (eumelanin) and black (eumelanin) (pheomelanin).
You might be wondering how there are red, white, and gray Huskys when the body only produces two fundamental hues. This is where the genes make their debut in the show ring!
The generation of the pigments — black and red — in the body is regulated and influenced by various genes. They either block, dilute, or intensify pigment production, resulting in a variety of colors.
When eumelanin (black) is regulated by a certain gene, it can turn gray, silver, brown, or blue. The pheomelanin (red) pigment, on the other hand, can take on tan, yellow, and cream hues.
The coat markings and patterns are also determined by the genes. Patches, color streaks, banded hairs, and face masks are all caused by distinct genes.
The active gene in the agouti Husky is also called “agouti.” Every strand’s distribution of eumelanin and pheomelanin is regulated by it. As a result, a banded or multicolored fur is created.
The agouti gene comes in four different forms: the fawn sable allele (Ay), the wild type allele (aw), the black and tan allele (at), and the recessive black allele (a).The wild-type allele, often known as the wolf-sable allele, is responsible for the agouti Husky’s wolf-like coat.
The coat of an agouti Husky differs from that of a brindle Husky. The brindle pattern is made up of uneven color streaks against a white coat background. As previously stated, the agouti are pigmented layers on the hair strand.
Agouti Husky appearance
The Agouti color is pretty rare in huskies. The Agouti coloring creates the wolf like appearance in Huskies. They always have a “dark mask” around their face and a pitch black undercoat. Their outer coat can be grey, tan, black or red. The most common combination is black on the tip, tan roots and occasionally red in the middle.
These are big dogs. Males are between 21 and 23.5 inches tall. Females are a bit smaller with 20 to 22 inches. Male Huskies weigh between 45 and 60 pounds and the female 35 to 50 pounds.
Do Agouti Husky puppies change color over time?
Agouti Husky puppies, like solid-colored Huskies, change color as they mature. During their puppyhood, dogs may have a darker coat color, which will lighten up as they grow and develop.
This implies that as your dog gets older, you might expect it to turn a different color. Breeders and enthusiasts have also discovered that the coat of an agouti Husky is changed by the seasons.
When Agouti Huskies shed, as well as when their fur is exposed to too much sunshine, their color changes. The markings on an agouti puppy’s coat will also change as it grows older. As the mask or patches on the body expand, they may become lighter or perhaps disappear completely.
The color changes in agouti Huskies have a lot to do with genetics. So you won’t know what color exactly your Husky puppy has until he grows up.
Personality of the Agouti Husky
The Agouti Husky doesn’t only look like a wolf, character-wise they resemble them too. Just like wolves, Huskies are pack animals and they need an owner who will be a strong leader. While they are very loyal and affectionate dogs, they can lean into their destructive behaviors whenever they are left alone. You probably already heard a lot of stories about huskies destroying furniture and other items.
Their intelligence also gives them a very strong will which can be both a blessing and a curse. These dogs have a lot of charm and they are unbelievable witty. They can win over anyone with their deep eyes and sparkling personality. Huskies make great companions, they love to go on hikes and be active. However, they can also enjoy some chill time on the couch.
Are they aggressive?
Huskies are outgoing and social canines. They like to run around and play, and they don’t usually react to people. Huskies are friendly to both humans and dogs and will not bite unless provoked.
Their gregarious butterfly personality, on the other hand, does not imply that they are a laid-back family dog. Huskies need a lot of physical activity. Do not get a Husky unless you can provide at least 1.5 hours of off-leash running every day.
A bored agouti Husky can become quite destructive, causing significant damage to his owner’s property. Because of their dark color, these canines should always be wearing a high-visibility collar.
Huskies with insufficient mental and physical outlets for their energy will tear apart your couch, scratch holes in your doorframes and walls, and eat whatever they come across. That’s why so many adult Huskies end up in shelters.
Are Agouti Siberian Huskies Suitable for Families?
Siberian Huskies have a long history of becoming human companions. The Agouti is no different.
These dogs lived to keep the family company and warm the children after pushing sleds across the snow. The Husky of today is not that different.
This dog breed is a charmer for both children and adults. It is also amusing and has a few tricks under its sleeve (or fur, if we want to be more accurate). They are highly intelligent, but also a bit of a drama queen. But at least you will never be bored!
The Husky is also a social butterfly, and it doesn’t require a lot of socialization before it becomes endearing to strangers. They just love people, and are true pack animals.
While this makes it an ineffective guard dog, it does contribute to its family dog credentials. Everyone will love your witty and affectionate Husky.
This isn’t to say that every household can handle having a Husky. First-timers and couch potatoes have already been ruled out. Apartment owners and residents of bustling cities with a busy lifestyle are also not the ideal fit for any Husky.
Do They Get Along With Other Dogs and Pets?
As a pack dog, it thrives in the company of other dogs and would rather live in a home with many canines than be alone. It shouldn’t be a problem to keep a Husky with another dog as long as the latter is happy with the living situation.
If the Husky was paired up with cats and other pets in your home, it shouldn’t be too much of an issues with them. Aside from that, this breed has a high prey drive, so keep small animals under your supervision when they spend time with your Husky.
Exercise
Physical exercise is essential for all Huskies! They will need at least one to two hours a day to tire them out. Huskies definitely aren’t the dogs for people with busy schedules.
Huskies can easily become destructive and cause some serious damage to your home if they don’t get the stimulation they need. So besides physical exercise, make sure that your dog gets mental exercise as well.
If you intend for your Agouti to spend time in your backyard — build high fences. You would be surprised at how tall a Husky can jump. Digging the wall down eighteen inches is also recommended because if they can’t jump over the fence, they’ll attempt to tunnel under it.
Training
These dogs are independent thinkers. They love to make their own decisions and are incredibly strong willed. That’s why training them can be a challenge, to say the least. However, if you start early on and build up a good system — you shouldn’t have too much trouble with it.
Begin to socialize your dog at the age of six weeks, and start the training process at eight. Huskies need to know their boundaries. Their stubbornness and cleverness can make it hard for them to see you as an authority.
Agouti Huskies won’t follow your commands like a Golden Retriever or German Shepherd, for example. But they make up for it with their witty personality. If you want a dog that will do exactly what you tell him, than this breed isn’t the one for you.
Use praise and rewards during your training process, and even consider hiring a professional trainer if needed.
Grooming
The Agouti Husky has a medium length double coat, that sheds all year round. However m, the shedding becomes particularly bad in the spring and autumn. Make sure to buy a good vacuum and brush your dog daily to manage the shedding.
You don’t have to bathe your husky too often though. Their coats are pretty dirt proof and a bath every three weeks will be more than fine. Unless your dog loves to roll in dirt at the dog park, which Huskies often do.
Health of an Agouti Husky
Generally speaking, Huskies are a healthy dog breed. However, there are certain health conditions that all Huskies are prone to.
These conditions include:
- Hypothyroidism
- Von Willebrand’s disease
- Elbow dysplasia m
- Epilepsy.
- Specific types of cancer.
- Eye problems such as glaucoma
But overall, Huskies live a long and healthy life. Their average life expectancy is between 11 and 14 years.
What health conditions to look out for
Cataracts
One of the most prevalent eye issues in any dog breed is cataracts. The majority of adult agouti Siberian Huskys suffer from this incurable illness that results in blindness. Cataracts normally begin between the ages of six and twelve months in a Husky’s life, though they are more common in older dogs. You should have your Husky’s eyes checked by a veterinarian on a regular basis to keep him safe from this devastating disease.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
This is also an eye disease. It causes the retina to deteriorate. This disorder, like cataracts, has the potential to cause lifelong blindness if not treated properly.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not operate properly. The metabolic processes are disrupted when thyroid hormones are produced at an inappropriate rate. Agouti Huskies with this illness may gain weight, lose their appetite, and lose their fur.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia in Siberian Huskies is a prevalent problem. It is defined by an aberrant development of the hip socket, which can result in lameness and joint arthritis. This is a genetic disorder that can be passed down from generation to generation.
Hair Loss in the Elbows, Foot, Lips, and Chin
An agouti Husky with zinc deficiency may develop hair loss in the elbows, feet, lips, and chin. Zinc pills can assist to replenish zinc levels in the body, which may help to relieve symptoms. Before starting any medication, you should consult with a veterinarian.
What Does an Agouti Husky puppy cost?
Because the Agouti Husky is more rare than other Husky breeds, it may take some time to find one. Breeders will also want to establish a high price due of its appealing appearance and rarity.
You won’t be able to get an Agouti Husky puppy for less than $1,000. The pricing range, though, is between $1,000 and $3,000. While you’re planning your budget for the first purchase, don’t forget about the other vital expenses you’ll need to make to keep your pet happy.
Huskies are occasionally bred only for the purpose of profit. Even with the rare Agouti, the odds of receiving a poorly reared pup are considerable. When purchasing a puppy, be careful and inquiring to ensure you receive accurate health and diet information.
Adoption is a possible alternative if you aren’t getting a puppy for a show. It’s also less expensive, at around $350. Obtain as much information as possible about the dog, including experiences with previous owners.
Where to find Agouti Siberian Husky puppies
Due to its rarity, finding an agouti Husky might be difficult. A lot of breeders will try to scam you and either overprice the puppies or not put the health of the puppies first. But don’t worry, there are dedicated and reliable places where you can purchase an agouti Husky.
While they are hard to find — don’t worry, they do exist. You can buy an agouti Husky from one of the following breeders:
- The American Kennel Club (AKC) runs an online marketplace where legitimate dog breeders from all across the country can advertise and sell their litters. On their website, you may quickly identify a trustworthy agouti Husky breeder. All puppies sold on the AKC Marketplace platform are guaranteed to be registered with the kennel club.
- Burnsberg Kennels is a Michigan-based kennel dedicated to producing top-notch Siberian Huskies. They have a large kennel facility where their Huskies are bred and trained. Their litters occasionally produce both agouti and solid white Siberian Husky puppies.
- Since 2014, Novel Siberians has been producing high-quality Siberian Huskies. They have successfully produced and bred agouti Huskies as well as other coat colors, including the unusual ones, in the previous few years.
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FAQ
Is it true that Agouti Huskies are friendly?
Agouti Huskies are sociable dogs. They are compassionate and devoted to their loved ones. Despite their threatening wolf-like look, agouti Huskies are neither violent toward other dogs or cautious of strangers.
However, because they are always alert, this does not rule them out as guard dogs.
Is it true that Agouti Huskies are dangerous?
Because of its wolf-like appearance, some people believe the Agouti Husky is dangerous, feral, and untrainable. None of these statements are correct.
This Huskie is sociable and lovely, much like the other Huskies. It’s a great buddy as well as a hard worker.
Do other breeds also have the Agouti coloration?
Other dog breeds with the wild-type pattern or agouti coloring include the Wolf Spitz, German Shepherd Dogs, Keeshonds, and Norwegian Elkhounds.
This colour is very frequent in wolves, which is why it is sometimes known as wolf-sable.
Is it possible for me to rescue an agouti Husky?
It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to locate these canines at a rescue organization. As previously said, the coloration is most common in racing lines. The chances of these canines being surrendered to a shelter are little to none.
Despite the fact that rescue is always a good option and should be regarded as an alternative to purchasing a pure-bred dog, agouti Huskies are unlikely to be found there.
What is the rarest Husky color?
Even though the agouti coat color is rare, it is not the rarest hue in Siberian Huskies. Solid white Huskies are still the most sought-after and expensive coat color. Their snow-white coat has a piercing, exquisite aspect. The white coloration of white Huskies is caused by a specific gene, just like agouti.
Final thoughts
Aside from their rarity and gorgeous wolf-like look, agouti Huskies are prized for their devotion and intelligence. They are smart dogs that love being around their owners.
It’s no surprise, then, that the number of dog owners who are interested in them is growing by the day. That’s why their price is so high and why you’ll probably have to go on a waiting list to get one.
However, owning and caring for agouti Huskies is not an easy task. They are by no means low maintenance dogs. They require a lot of time, training and exercise. You should be aware of their needs and the environment in which they live.
This is not a breed for inexperienced dog owners. If you want to own one, you should learn as much as you can about the breed. Even though they are intelligent, they are also stubborn. That’s why training them won’t be so easy. But you can always relay on the help of a professional dog trainer.
All types of Huskies are dogs that require a lot of space, exercise and patience. So if you live in a small apartment in a busy city, and spend most of your time at work — this breed definitely isn’t the one for you.
However, if you love the outdoors, want a perfect workout body, and have some time to spend with your canine — definitely consider the Agouti Husky as a good option. The buying process may be a bit more complicated, as these dogs are pretty rare. But it will all be so worth it in the end.