The Mackenzie River Husky is not so much a breed of dog, but rather a type.  This term describes several populations of sleddogs throughout the arctic.  Historically the name Mackenzie River Husky has been used to describe a number of dogs throughout the region.
   
    Mackenzie River Huskies normally stand anywhere between 27-32 inches and weigh in between 70-125lbs.  They are long coated and built for hauling heavy freight through deep snow.  Colors can vary, especially as the Mackenzie River Husky is not a recognized breed, including shades of gray, black, tan, and white.

    The name "Mackenzie River" was given to these huskies by outsiders, in an attempt to name these crossbreeds that originally had a mixture of blood from St. Bernards, Newfoundlands, and Staghounds, others believe there is wolf in their ancestry as well.  Regardless of the fact that these dogs are in truth a mix breed they are thought to be the native dog of the arctic and recently interest has risen to preserve the breed.  Donna Dowling from Alaska is the coordinator for the state to breed and preserve the Mackenzie River Husky.
   
    Donna Dowling produces a mere two litters a year of the Mackenzie River Husky, and never with the exact same pair twice, to limit inbreeding.  She is always in search of new males to breed with her females to keep extinction at bay.  Every litter is different, some too small, some having blue eyes (which she does not prefer), and some having a curl in their tails.  The only thing that breeds true is the temperament of the dogs.  They are intelligent, easy to train and eager to work.  Mackenzie River Huskies also get along well with children and other dogs; in fact they will take the role of leadership in the family if you do not.