Description:
The Alaskan Malamute is a large, strong Arctic dog with a thick, coarse double
coat and a plumed tail held over the back. It is a ponderous dog, well built,
with a solid body, wide head, and a proud expression.
The feet are furry and
have tough pads. It has erect ears and small, dark, almond shaped eyes. The eyes
are obliquely placed in the skull. Eyes are brown, almond shaped and of medium
size and look like those of a wolf, but with a sweet expression.
Dark eyes are
preferred. Blue Eyes are a Disqualifying Fault. The coat averages one to three
inches in length and comes in white, black & white, wolf gray, wolf sable (red
undercoat with dark gray outer coat), or red, often with darker highlights and
sometimes with a dark mask or cap.
The legs and muzzle are almost always white.
In some areas, dogs may be either smaller or larger than the official standard.
Temperment:
The Alaskan Malamute is extremely loyal and intelligent, sweet and most affectionate toward
it's master. Great with children who are old enough to play with him safely. If their canine
instincts are met, they mature into a dignified and mellow adult dog. They are very friendly
and therefore are not suitable as a guard dog.
Malamutes are happiest living outdoors as
long as they receive enough companionship, but they also enjoy living indoors where their
human "pack" lives.
Without firm leadership and daily mental and physical exercise, these
dogs may become destructive nuisances, acting like a big, rambunctious puppy. In one case,
a single dog ruined an entire living room of furniture valued at $15,000 in just three
hours!
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. This breed needs the humans around him to be
firm, confident and consistent pack leaders. 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.
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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 prey 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
and firm handling and training are necessary to curb this. Proper socialization
with people and other dogs is imperative. Obedience training is highly recommended.
Height, Weight:
Height-Dogs 24-26 inches (61-66 cm.) Bitches 22-24 inches (56-61 cm.)
Weight-Dogs 80-95 pounds (36-43 kg.) Bitches 70-85 pounds (32-38 kg.)
Health Problems:
The Alaskan Malamute is generally a very hardy breed. Be careful that you are not buying
your Alaskan Malamute from a puppy mill, as some dogs have been having health and temperament
problems.
They are prone to hip dysplasia, but no more than any other large breed and
less then many others. Some are prone to chondrodysplasia, which is dwarfism. Some
clubs require OFA, CERF, and CHD (dwarfism test) certification of both parents.
Prone to bloat.
Living Conditions:
Alaskan Malamutes are not recommended for apartment life. They 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, but bury the base, because they 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.
Exercise:
Malamutes need a reasonable amount of exercise witch include long daily walks. But be careful
not to overdue it in warm weather.
Life Expectancy:
About 12-15 years.
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