While at first glance, the Siberian Husky and the Native American Indian Dog can appear as mirror images of one another, a closer look reveals several key differences.

The Siberian husky is a medium-sized compact sled dog bred to work in packs and pull loads in colder climates. These dogs are typically friendly, athletic and loyal. Like most working dogs, they’ve been bred to perform a task, so they’re happiest when they’re busy. 

The breed can have either brown or blue eyes and usually weigh about 60 lbs. They are quick, agile dogs that are naturally clean and mostly lacking in odor. Despite their, at times, intimidating appearance, Sibes are not the most reliable watchdogs. This is due to their friendly disposition and charming nature. 

The Native American Indian Dog, or NAID as they’re sometimes called, are a breed apart. They’re a fixture in many indigenous communities and a legend in some. These roaming four-legged wonders are generally a mixed-breed with a long history and traditional role in many indigenous communities. For instance, dogs have a longstanding deep cultural meaning to the Lakota people. Traditionally, animals were left in the wild and although they offered protection and companionship, dogs remained living outside. The relationship between dogs and humans resembled that of trusted friends rather than master and pet.

The NAID is generally smart, resilient, sociable, and adaptable. Their ancestry is somewhat controversial and it is believed that most of the lineage comes from the extinct direwolf. This rare breed is known for its pointy ears, thick fur, and strong impressive build. The dogs are selectively bred for their character traits and appearance. Many people are fooled into thinking they are wolves due to its similar appearance and basic characteristics. They are excellent hunters, baby sitters (the dog is very protective of children) and enjoy pulling sleds. All of these factors make them excellent family pets.

These gentle fur balls usually weigh between 55–120 lbs. and range between 23–34 inches tall. Their muscular stocky build and curled up tails are similar to that of the Siberian Husky — only smoother in texture. Their coloring — silver to black — as well as their big brown almond-shaped eyes and triangular heads are distinguishable features that make this breed popular.

So why the sudden popularity?

• The breed is smart – highly trainable and are capable of carrying multiple tasks and love to please their family. They make excellent therapy dogs  because of their gentle nature.
• They make excellent family dogs – These social pooches are great protectors and have a soft spot for kids. However, they do not like being left alone. The recommended time is usually 3 hours. They crave human interaction and affection. Too much alone time can cause depression, illness, and anxiety.
• They require exercise – Being a working breed they require adequate amounts of exercise and play to keep them happy and healthy.
• They require space – a fenced-in yard is ideal to give this breed plenty of room to roam, explore, and play. Unfortunately, they are not ideal pets for small apartments unless you lead a very active life outside the home.
• They’re very healthy and live a long life – This breed tends to live a long and happy life but they do commonly suffer from hip dysplasia. Usual life span can be from 14–19 years.
• They’re hypoallergenic – This breed is ideal for those who suffer from allergies. Their coat is hypoallergenic and odorless. However, they do shed at least once a year in the spring but their fur needs tending and brushing.

To be clear, original Native American Dogs are extinct but what remains of the breed is a lovable, hardworking dog that is extremely loyal to its owner. This mixed-breed pooch has survived due to its traits, intelligence, and skills.

Another breed that is often compared to the Native American Indian Dog and Siberian Husky is the Carolina Dog, which is an American breed as well. However, they do not possess the same qualities. They are often seen as the poor representation of the actual Native American Indian Dog. Although cute, the Carolina Dog is built off the romanticized western fantasies about indigenous people and wolves. On some level, European settlers claimed the Native American Indian Dog as their own for companionship and protection from the very aboriginal culture they tried to destroy.

The unadulterated descendants of these dogs still play a major role in indigenous culture, known as the “Rez Dogs.” These free roaming pooches live in rural areas around reservations across this country. The legendary dogs have their own characteristics and traits but the breed does not compare to its counterpart. Although smart, Rez dogs are running on pure instinct and like pack dogs can strike at any moment. This unpredictable behavior has led to several biting incidents and attacks.

Modern indigenous culture paved the way for several breeds to prosper, including the Alaskan Malamute, Canadian Eskimo Dog, and Hare Indian Dog.