Alaskan Malamute
Brief Overview and History
Alaskan Malamutes are very similar to the Siberian Husky in not just looks but also in their use as working dogs. These dogs were bred to survive and work in the harshest of conditions, finding their work as sled dogs. They also found their use hunting seals and tracking polar bears in their native Alaska. They are very friendly with people but not the easiest to train.
Place of Origin
Alaska, USA
Alaskan Malamute Dog Breed Information
Description
General
City Dog
Farm Living
Guide Dog
Not a One Man Dog
Good With Children
Best With Families
Not a One Man Dog
Seldomly Barks – Prefers to “woo”
Can Sleep Outdoors
Average Life Expectancy
Approximately 10 – 15 or more years
Breed Group
Working - Sled Dog
FCI Grouping:
Group 5 Spitz and Primitive Types
Section 1 Nordic Sledge Dogs
Registered Breed
(Links below are to the Breed Standard Page for each organization)
FCI (The World Canine Organization)
Appearance
Size, Height, and Weight
Large Breed
Height and Weight:
Approx. 75 pounds, 23 inches (female)
Approx. 85 pounds, 25 inches (male)
Coat
Length: Short to medium, dense
Double-coat: they shed their winter coat for a shorter and less dense coat in the summer.
Heavy Shedder
Grooming Requirements:
Daily Brushing
Coat Colors:
Light to darker gray, black, sable (black tipped hair), and shadings of sable to red
Personality
Alaskan Malamute Temperament
Alert
Lively
Fond of People
Loyal
Devoted
Affectionate
Loyal to the Family
Active
Intelligent
Bold
Stubborn
Tendency to be dominant with other dogs
Friendliness Towards other Dogs
Cautious – This breed tends to be more dominant with other dogs. Regular socialization and monitoring from an early age is important to prevent unwanted behavior.
Friendliness towards other Pets
Cautious – This breed might have a high prey drive and be prone to chasing smaller animals. Regular socialization and monitoring with small animals, especially living in the household, from an early age is important to prevent unwanted behavior.
Friendliness Towards Strangers
Friendly – This breed tends to enjoy the presence of, and meeting, strangers.
Energy & Trainability
Energy Level
High Energy/High Exercise Needs – This breed tends to have seemingly never-ending energy and won’t be satisfied with one short walk a day.
A large yard and daily run is a necessity with this breed. Expect to provide regular stimulation to prevent unwanted behaviors.
Training Ability
Intermediate - This breed tends to take a little extra time and effort to learn commands and expectations.
Since the Alaskan Malamute gets bored easily and has a stubbornness to their nature. They are more likely to push their boundaries with some people.
Additional Information About the Breed
Tips for Raising Your Puppy
The nature of the work that the Alaskan Malamute was bred for means it has strong endurance and never ending energy. It is prone to digging and other destructive behaviour when bored. It is important to do daily activities that stimulate the mind and release some energy otherwise you can quickly have problems on your hands with this breed.
As with all dog breeds, it is important to not over exercise a puppy. They grow quickly and too much pressure on their joints can cause issues later on in life. Wait until your puppy is at least a year old before you take them on any lengthy hikes or runs.
Alaskan Malamute Rescue and Adoption Organizations
The Alaskan Malamute Help League
If you are a rescue and adoption organization and would like to see your information on this page and/or on our CAN Rescue and Adoption Organizations List, please use the contact us form and provide:
- The organization name, Web Site URL, breed/page you would like your site listed, and city and province of shelter location if applicable.
Sources:
Wikipedia, The Canadian Kennel Club Website 2019, The American Kennel Club Website 2019, The Kennel Club (UK) Website 2019, and the FCI World Canine Organisation website 2019.
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