Alaskan Malamute Breed Characteristics
Height
58 to 63 cm at the shoulder
Weight
75 to 100 pounds
Life Expectancy
12 to 15 years
Coat Colours
Black, white, grey, sable, red
Alaskan Malamute
Noble, loyal and playful
About the Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute, also known affectionately as the Mal, is the quintessential arctic sled dog. Their powerful bodies, heavy bones and dense coat mark them as incredibly well adapted to all the tasks involved in cold-weather adventuring.
However, they also have a curious and friendly expression on their faces, and they’re quick to welcome strangers into their ‘pack’. They’re social and playful dogs who thrive on human contact.
Mals are not aggressive toward people, but they love the chase of the hunt and may take off running after rabbits or squirrels. Any owner of a Malamute puppy should have a strong grip on the leash, lest they find themselves having to sprint after their dog.
While an Alaskan Malamute may be a demanding dog in terms of exercise and grooming, experienced dog lovers will find that this breed makes for a wonderful family pet and companion.
Here are some of the qualities you can expect from the Alaskan Malamute, rated from one to five stars. However, all dogs are individuals, and your dog may not display exactly the same characteristics.
Family Life
4/5
Friendly with Kids
4/5
Friendly with Dogs
2/5
Ease of Grooming
1/5
Exercise Needs
5/5
Prey Drive
4/5
Tendency to Bark or Howl
5/5
Good for Novice Owners
2/5
Apartment Living
1/5
Alaskan Malamute Breed History
The Alaskan Malamute is an ancient breed, and is considered to be part of the sixteen basal dog breeds. These sixteen basal breeds are the foundation of all other dog breeds that exist today.
The Mahlemiut people who originally bred the Alaskan Malamutes used them as all-around hunting and carting dogs. While the Mal’s cousin, the Siberian Husky, excels at pulling sleds at high speed, the Malamute is focused more on strength and their ability to pull heavy loads over large distances.
The gold rush at the end of the 19th century saw the Malamute rise to prominence in Alaska, pulling heavy sleds full of rocks and, potentially, gold. They were also used during the first expeditions to the South Pole.
This breed is now more often seen as a family pet, but they still are found in their native Alaska and continue to serve as strong, reliable companions.
Caring For an Alaskan Malamute
- Temperament: Alaskan Malamutes are good-natured dogs, true to the Northern dog stereotype. They are playful, gentle and friendly animals, though they are wary of other dogs.
- Grooming: Their dense, fluffy coat makes grooming and brushing a time-consuming affair. Alaskan Malamutes should not be shaved, as their double coat keeps them insulated from the weather and protects them from the sun.
- Exercise: Alaskan Malamutes are intense, high-energy dogs, and they will need one to two hours of vigorous exercise and play each day. They love to run, and may need some off-leash time in an enclosed outdoor space.
- Nutrition: Adult Alaskan Malamutes will need around 3 to 4 cups of dry dog food each day. Alaskan Malamute puppies will need around half that. Speak to your veterinarian for more specific advice.
- Training: Alaskan Malamutes tend to be very intelligent but can be easily distracted. Get your Malamute puppy to focus using positive reinforcement and you’ll have a much easier time training them.
How to Choose a Responsible Alaskan Malamute Breeder
A responsible Malamute dog breeder will do everything in their power to ensure that their dogs are healthy and happy. This includes testing for common genetic issues, as well as providing a safe, clean environment for all their animals.
When looking for an Alaskan Malamute puppy, make an appointment with your chosen breeder to visit their property. This will let you get to know the breeder and their animals, and lets them get to know you as well. A good, reputable breeder will want to know as much about you and your situation as you will want to know about them.
Alaskan Malamute FAQ
Can Alaskan Malamutes be left alone throughout the day?
No. Alaskan Malamute require a lot of companionship from their owners and family members. It’s best if they have a job to do or they will get bored and develop destructive behaviours.
Do Alaskan Malamutes make good guard dogs?
No, an Alaskan Malamute is more likely to become friends with any intruders than to attack them.
Dog Breeds Similar to the Alaskan Malamute
The information is for general use only. For any specific advice or queries, please consult with your veterinarian.
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