Description

The Alaskan Malamute is a powerful, substantially built dog with a deep chest and a strong, compact body. The Alaskan Malamute is the oldest of the Arctic dogs, native to Alaska. Alaskan Malamutes are family oriented and love to be with people. He makes a wonderful companion and does well which children. He is well suited for colder climates, but he does not like hot, humid weather. An Alaskan Malamute is suitable for drawing a sled or a wheeled cart because it has a very strong build and high endurance level.

Size of Male: Height: 25 inches Weight: 85 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 23 inches Weight: 75 pounds

Temperament

The Alaskan Malamute is rambunctious when it is a puppy, it is literally uncontrollable. Alaskan Malamute are extremely loyal, intelligent, sweet and affectionate toward it’s master. Alaskan Malamute is great with children who are old enough to play with him safely. They generally mature into a dignified adult dog with a friendly nature. They are very friendly and therefore are not suitable as a guard dogs. Malamutes are happiest living outdoors as long as they receive enough companionship, but they also enjoy living indoors with their owner and family. Without attention, these dogs may become destructive nuisances due to boredom. Malamutes love outdoor activities and even do well in obedience with firm encouragement. Although it can be difficult to train Malamutes for formal obedience, it is not particularly hard to train them to be well-mannered because they love to please. Males can be very dominant in some cases and some dogs may be difficult to housebreak. This breed is a thrifty feeder and needs less food than you might expect. However, they do tend to wolf down whatever is offered, which can lead to obesity and bloat. Malamutes are quiet compared to most dogs but they do like to howl and dig. This breed should be supervised around unfamiliar small animals, as they have a strong prying instinct. This does not mean they are not good with small animals. Some Malamutes have been known to raise small kittens as their own. Both sexes can be combative with other dogs, especially with the same sex and breed. Firm handling and training are necessary. Proper socialization with people and other dogs is imperative. Obedience training is highly recommended.

Living Conditions

The Alaskan Malamute is not recommended for apartment life. The Alaskan Malamute is a huge dog and also requires a lot of exercise. Destructiveness and undesirable behavior may occur due to boredom. Similarly, with adequate exercise and training Alaskan Malamutes can be trained to live indoors. Alaskan Malamutes are fairly active indoors and should have at least a large yard. If you live in a suburban area, a high fence is a must and do bury the base because Alaskan Malamutes are likely to dig their way out. Alaskan Malamutes like to roam in what he considers to be his territory. The Malamutes coat allows them to withstand extreme cold, but be careful to keep the dog cool in hot climates. Make sure they have shade and plenty of clean cool water.

Upkeep

The Alaskan malamute loves cold weather and especially loves to haul a sled through the snow. Alaskan Malamute can run for miles and needs to have adequate exercise every day, either in the form of a long walk on leash or the opportunity to run or mush. Alaskan Malamute can live outdoors in temperate to cold climates, but it does better indoors during warm weather. Its coat requires brushing at least once or twice a week and slightly more often when shedding.

Health

Major concerns: Hip Dysplasia, Cataracts, Chondrodysplasia

Minor concerns: Renal cortical hypoplasia, Patellar Luxation

Life expectancy: 10 – 12 years