Breed Profile: Alaskan Malamutes
This beautiful dog is both loyal and strong. Here is what you need to know about the Alaskan Malamute to determine whether this is the right breed for you.
Breed Snapshot
• Size: Average height is anywhere from 56 to 66 cm tall. They can weigh around 34 to 38 kgs.
• Coat: They have a think, medium-length coat that should be brushed everyday to ensure that their fir does not get any mats or tangles. They are moderate shedders.
• Energy: High-energy dogs that love various outdoor activities. They are also strong and powerful and love to work
• Country of Origin: America (Alaska)
• Breed Type: Thought to be the descendant of the wolf dog, these gorgeous dogs are strong, intelligent, and loyal
• Great Breed For: Apartments, farmhouses, Active Families, Families with older kids or adults
What is an Alaskan Malamute?
Alaskan Malamutes are smart and vigilant dogs. They are energetic and powerful, but also extremely loyal. All Malamutes live in packs, if they are living in a home with humans, they look at their human family members as their “pack.”
Malamutes descend from the domestic wolf dogs. They are known for their athleticism and are actually known globally as one of the first breeds of sledding dogs. Historically, this breed was known for transporting heavy loads of material through the rough terrains of Alaska. Today, they are still used as sled dogs, however, now, sledding has become more of a sport rather than a necessity.
Today, these dogs can be found in various types of the world. And although they can live in warmer climates, they preferred to live where the weather is cooler, and the snow is plentiful.
What Do Alaskan Malamutes Look Like?
Although Alaskan Malamutes are purely canine, many people think that these majestic dogs look identical to a wolf. They are tall dogs that average about 61cm in height. They also have a thick coat of fur that is usually a mixture of either black, grey, and white, or brown, red, and white. Their slender muzzles and big brown eyes let you know that they are always alert and ready for an adventure. While their fluffy tail that curves up and over their back helps to make them look less threatening and more adorable.
What Makes the Alaskan Malamute Special?
Alaskan Malamutes are both loyal and protective. They think of their human family as their pack. And if someone messes with a member of their pack, they go into protective mode very quickly. The Alaskan Malamute is also strong and a hard worker. They are happy when they are given a job to do and love to work together as a team to complete a task. If you ever need any help, you can count on the Alaskan Malamute to be there.
How Often Do I Need to Groom My Alaskan Malamute?
The Alaskan Malamute has a thick coat of fur that is waterproof and helps to protect them from extreme cold climates. Because their coat helps to protect them, it is important that they are groomed regularly to keep their fur in peak condition. You Alaskan Malamute’s fur should be brushed and combed every day to ensure that the fur does not mat up. They are also prone to shed, so be sure to brush them thou=roughly to ensure that you are able to get rid of any excess hair.
The Alaskan Malamute should be bathed every six to eight weeks unless they get excessively dirty and need a bath in between those times. It is also important that their nails stay trimmed, so they do not get too long and become uncomfortable.
How Often Should I Walk My Alaskan Malamute?
Malamutes thrive in an environment where they are able to get a consistent and thorough workout. It is suggested that owners have a fenced in yard for their dog to run and play in throughout the day. However, if you do not have a large yard for them to roam, you can take them for a brisk walk or jog twice a day. Alaskan Malamutes also love to do different outdoor activities with the owners. Whether you want to jog, swim, ride your bike, or skate through the park, your Alaskan Malamute will be at his happiest if he Is able to be at your side during those activities.
How Do I Train My Alaskan Malamute?
If you plan on having your Alaskan Malamute around children or other animals, it is vital that you socialize your dog at an early age. This breed is loving and affectionate, but they can also be a bit pushy and try to declare dominance over the rest of their “pack.”
When training your puppy, it is important that you show your dog that you are the leader of the pack. In the beginning, you should always be firm but loving with your dog. Make sure they understand when they have done wrong, and also, be sure to reward and praise them when they have obeyed your command.
Quickfire Questions
How long will my Alaskan Malamute live?
Alaskan Malamutes have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years
Can my Alaskan Malamute be left home alone during the day?
Alaskan Malamutes like to be a part of a pack, but they can also be the “lone wolf” when they need to be. If you need to leave your dog home by himself for a few hours a day, he should be fine as long as he has plenty of water and a few activities to keep him busy throughout the day.
What Kind of health risk do Alaskan Malamutes have?
Alaskan Malamutes have been known to suffer from a few different health conditions including elbow and hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, dwarfism, and inherited polyneuropathy. Several Alaskan Malamutes have also been known to suffer from day blindness. While this condition is not life threatening, you should have a vet check your dog’s eyesight if you feel that they are unable to see good during the day.
Do Alaskan Malamutes bark a lot?
Some owners have noted that their Alaskan Malamutes can sometimes be very vocal dogs. While they may not let out a traditional bark that often, they do let out a loud whining noise or a howl to let you know that they are unhappy or that they need something.
Where Can I Get an Alaskan Malamute?
Alaskan Malamute breeder can be found all over the world. However, because they are so popular, especially in places that have colder climates, many Alaskan Malamutes are sadly found in puppy farms where they are being mistreated and kept in cages all day. If you are wanting to own an Alaskan Malamute, first make sure that you are using a trusted breeder that has experience with caring for these wonderful animals.
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