Are Alaskan Malamutes simply a larger version of Siberian Huskies?

What are the signigicant differences? Is it common to have a darkly marked Alaskan Malamute or is it more difficult to find one than a darkly marked Siberian Husky? I enjoy the appearance of the husky and the long hair and size of the malamute. Will it be difficult for me to find a darkly marked Alaskan Malamute?

They are two totally different breeds. Yes, you can find a Malamute that is black and white. The males are usually 25" at the shoulder and weigh about 85 pounds. Siberian Husky males should not weigh more than 60 lbs.

They are completely different breeds developed on different continents for different tasks. They have superficial resemblances due to the similarity of the climates in which they were developed.Malamutes: bred in Alaska as draft animals to pull heavy loads, tall and broad they have a lot of bone and can be quite laid back when not working.Huskies: bred in Siberia as sled dogs to pull light loads at a brisk or fast pace over long distances, medium-sized and sleek they are built for endurance and will run-run-run for up to 80 miles in a single day if allowed to do so.Both breeds come in a wide variety of colors and similar coats. Here is breed information on both a la their national parent clubs:http://www.alaskanmalamute.org/wiki/default.aspxhttp://www.shca.org/Both have links to a lot of breed information as well as contact information for club members willing to answer breed questions. They also have breeder referral lists for ethical, reputable breeders who are members of the clubs and links to national and regional rescue groups for their breed - the two best places to start looking for a dog of a particular breed.Please do not purchase a dog based on appearance alone, both of these are northern working breeds that do not do well in heat or when not properly exercised or trained. They are large and powerful dogs and need to be socialized and trained in order to be good family pets, neither breed can ever really be trusted off-leash and they both have very high prey drive around small animals. Find out the worst-case scenarios before you get a dog and find the breed that best meets your lifestyle, needs and expectations.Good luck!