What is an Agouti Husky?

You have likely heard of Siberian and Alaskan Huskies, but what is an Agouti Husky? What’s all the buzz about when it comes to this type of breed? Is it a different breed, or is there something smaller that separates this type of Husky from the others? Well, you will be happy to know it’s not a breed or personality difference: the differences are only skin-deep.

So, what is an Agouti Husky? An Agouti Husky has a very rare coloring on his coat that’s more likely of a working/racing Husky. The hairs have a brindle look, with multiple colors found within the coat. The faces and tails are darker than other Huskies. The lighter markings on an Agouti will be creamy rather than the more typical bright white hue.

Sounds rather interesting, doesn’t it? Well, if you think that is exciting, then you’re going to want to keep reading. There are actually tons of different special coloring and features on an Agouti Husky that you won’t find with a regular Siberian and Alaskan. We’re breaking down their coats and why they are like that, and how you can find a Husky with the same.

What Color is an Agouti’s Coat?

The major difference between an Agouti Husky and other Huskies is simply the coat.

Siberian Husky Agouti image source

They have a rare coloring that isn’t found in the majority of the breed, which some people are drawn to while others might deem it as looking ‘dirty’.

So what’s the deal with an Agouti coat? What can you expect with this type of Husky?

• The Agouti Husky is much darker than other Huskies.
• There are darker tones strewn throughout the coat.
• The lighter colors are more of a creamy hue, unlike the traditional bright white shade on most Huskies.
• The face and tail of an Agouti are obviously darker than Huskies. These are likely to be the darkest spots on the Agouti, minus the legs.
• The hair shaft has alternating bands of color from top to bottom, making it an intriguing sight to be seen.
• Agouti puppies are darker than the adults. This is due to the simple fact that aging takes a toll on the rich hues of black coloring.

Do Agouti Huskies Still Have the Same Piercing Blue Eyes?

This is definitely a must-know question for anyone considering a Husky as a pet. Since a lot of future pet owners are drawn to the piercing blue eyes of the Husky, this is a major selling point.

So if you see an Agouti puppy and fall in love, what can you expect in terms of eye color? While it is possible for Agouti Huskies to have the traditional striking icy blue eyes, it’s far more common for this type to have brown eyes.

This only reiterates how close the Husky is related to the wolf, as the brown eyes and darker coat can give this Husky a wolf-like appearance that’s fairly difficult to tell apart.

Not yet convinced a Husky is for you? Check out what breeds are popular in Canada.

Why do Agouti Huskies Have Darker Coats?

If you’re wondering why an Agouti’s coat is strewn with a variety of shades, you’re not alone.

And luckily, there is a fairly simple answer: it all boils down to genetics.

The gene that is responsible for hair color and overall construction of the hairs is rarer than the gene used with typical coats.

The wild-type agouti gene is responsible for the Agouti coat in Huskies, while the A-locus is associated with the overall texture and length of hair found in canines. It’s also responsible for how it grows, and when.

However, it is important to note that working and running Huskies have a higher chance of having an Agouti coat than the show Husky counterpart.

But why?

To put it simply, show Huskies have been bred to only have that delightful, striking black and white coat with the best markings in order to win the show. As an Agouti coat is darker and doesn’t have any popping white shades, it’s often referred to as ‘dirty’ and isn’t used in competitions.

This is why you’re not likely to see Agouti on Huskies bred for show. Instead, the Agouti Husky pays tribute to his ancestry as a sled-puller in the Arctic with his darker (and oddly more creative and fun) coat.

Do Agouti Huskies Have a Different Personality?

One might be concerned that because the Husky looks a little bit more wolf-like and wild that his personality follows suit. After all, he doesn’t look like the beautiful show Huskies you would find at a reputable dog show. His ‘dirtier’ appearance lends from the wolf, and nobody wants a wolf as a pet in their backyard.

So what’s the deal when it comes to temperament of an Agouti Husky?

The fact that an Agouti has a more ‘wild’ appearance has nothing to do with his temperament. A Husky is a Husky through and through, and no difference in the coat is going to change his temperament or behavior.

However, there is a chance that an Agouti dog may be slightly stronger and a better worker than their show dog counterpart. This is due to the simple fact that an Agouti Husky has not been bred for show and still relates directly to his working roots. But that’s certainly not a negative trait to have!

Should You Groom an Agouti Coat Differently?

It’s always important to know how to groom your pet. But you might think that a special, rare coat like the one found on an Agouti Husky requires more effort on your behalf.

To be honest though, an Agouti Husky’s coat is no different than a regular Huskies (except for the coloring, of course).

So how should you groom an Agouti Husky?

• Huskies only need to be cleaned once or twice a year. It’s true! Huskies have natural oils in their skin that will keep dirt away from their coat. They can stay completely clean without the help of their owners. However, you should still give him a proper bath using dog shampoo at least once or twice a year.
• Brush your Husky at least three times a week, more if possible. If you can it’s best to brush your Husky every day. This is due to the fact that the Huskies have longer hairs that can get tangled if not cared for. This will also help with the shedding that occurs twice a year with the changing seasons.
• Don’t cut or shave your Husky. Your Husky needs his coat for protection, and cutting or shaving can cause great harm to your dog’s skin. Leave it alone and brush it as much as possible to keep it thick and ready for anything!

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