The Alaskan Malamute comes from Alaska and was used there in the past to pull heavy loads on the sled. This impressive dog looks powerful and muscular. Besides its imposing appearance, the Alaskan Malamute has a fine character that makes it suitable as a family dog. They are friendly, social and obedient.
Towards their owner they are devoted and affectionate. This dog breed is energetic and loves to exercise. They can play independently, but also like to do activities with their owner. Are you curious about the Alaskan Malamute and would you like to learn more about this dog breed? Then read this article!
The history: the official state dog of Alaska
The Alaskan Malamute is native to the Arctic and is one of the oldest sled dog breeds. It is thought to be the descendants of wolf dogs that lived some four thousand years ago. Since 2010, the Alaskan Malamute has been the official state dog of Alaska. The name is derived from the people who lived in northwest Alaska, namely the Mahlemiut. They developed the Alaskan Malamute, and these dogs were initially used for pulling sleds.
They also had other duties such as carrying heavy backpacks, locating breathing holes in the ice for seals, and distracting bears while hunting. The difference from a Siberian Husky is that the Alaskan Malamute has been compared to a cargo ship. They pull large loads on the sled and have a low speed. A Siberian Husky has a higher speed, but can carry a lighter load.
The character: affectionate, playful and loyal
The Alaskan Malamute is playful, affectionate and devoted. They are friendly dogs that are loyal to their owner. It is a strong dog breed and can have a mind of its own. Because of their friendly nature, an Alaskan Malamute is not suitable as a watchdog.
By nature they have a strong instinct, so it is important to keep an eye on these dogs around small animals. The dogs should be well socialized as a puppy and have good experiences with other (domestic) animals, people and children. It is very important to help the dog with this, then they generally become social dogs who like to work for their owners.
They are energetic dogs and it is important that they get enough exercise. They prefer to play outside all day. In warm weather you must be careful that they do not get too hot because of their thick coat.
The appearance of an Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is an impressive dog to see. He has a powerful and muscular body. In general, an Alaskan Malamute stands up straight and has a proud attitude. A male dog weighs an average of 38 kg and has a height at the withers between 55 and 63 centimeters. A female weighs an average of 31 kg and has a height at the withers between 50 and 58 centimeters.
The head of an Alaskan Malamute is broad. The eyes are medium sized and almond or brown in color. The ears are erect and are triangular. In proportion to the rest of the head, the ears are small. The muzzle is bulky and not pointed or long. The tail is well haired and is carried over the back. The legs of an Alaskan Malamute are broad and muscular.
The Alaskan Malamute has a thick coat that consists of two layers. The undercoat is woolly and the top coat is coarse and has enough length to protect the skin. In the summer, the coat is often somewhat thinner and shorter. The coat can have different colors and markings ranging from white to silver-gray to black. The facial marking is a distinguishing feature, it consists of a completely white face and is marked with a bar and/or mask.
The grooming
The Alaskan Malamute has a thick, waterproof double coat that is well adapted to the cold in Alaska. The coat requires a lot of maintenance and should be brushed every day. This is best done with and pin brush and a metal comb. Twice a year an Alaskan Malamute sheds more and must also be brushed with an undercoat rake. When brushing, be alert for mold and mats in the coat.
Every six to eight weeks an Alaskan Malamute needs a bath. If the coat feels dry, you can use a conditioner specifically for dogs. You should not do this too often and only use it when the coat feels dry.
The nails should be checked regularly and trimmed if necessary. If there is brine on the streets in the winter, it is important to check the soles of the feet and rinse them with water. Teeth should also be checked regularly and, if necessary, brushed with special dog toothpaste. If there is dirt in the corners of the eyes, then it is important to clean it. Cleaning with a damp paper towel is often sufficient.
Besides the external care, the physical care of an Alaskan Malamute is also very important. Make sure your dog gets enough exercise to get rid of his energy.
Are there any diseases that occur in this breed?
An Alaskan Malamute reaches an average age of between ten and twelve years. It is generally a healthy breed of dog, but still some hereditary disorders and diseases can occur. These are the following:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Dwarfism
- Polyneuropathy
The Alaskan Malamute is a large dog and therefore hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia occur more often than average. In this disorder, the joints have a defect and because of this, the head does not fit properly into the socket. This is especially common in older dogs that suffer from joint wear. They then suffer from lameness and have difficulty standing up. This condition occurs in the hips and elbows, so in the front and back legs of the dog.
Dwarfism can also occur in this dog breed. A licensed breeder is required to tell the new owner if this occurs in any of the puppy’s parents. They must have a certificate showing that at least one of the parents was free of this condition. Polyneuropathy is a disorder of the nervous system that causes lack of coordination and weakness in dogs. This is a chronic defect for which there is no screening test.
Besides the fact that an Alaskan Malamute can have hereditary disorders and diseases, it is important to keep a close eye on their health. If you notice changes in appearance or behavior, it is wise to contact a veterinarian.
Did you know?
An Alaskan Malamute likes to dig in sand. It is not possible to unlearn this, even with training. Make sure you have a place in the yard where your dog can dig. Otherwise, an Alaskan Malamute will just keep doing this in places where you don’t want it.
Dog training for this breed
It is important for any dog to start early with a puppy course. This basic training will teach your dog the basic commands and build a better bond with your dog. It also allows you to teach and unteach certain behaviors.
An Alaskan Malamute can be stubborn and independent. It is therefore important to start training early. This can be done when the puppy is eight weeks old. An early socialization and obedience training can ensure that an Alaskan Malamute does not become intrusive towards children and other pets. You can also use this to prevent dominance towards adults.
An Alaskan Malamute is very intelligent, but is sometimes difficult to train because of its stubbornness. It is important to treat an Alaskan Malamute patiently and consistently. In this way, they become dedicated and reliable dogs.
What does an Alaskan Malamute cost?
An Alaskan Malamute costs on average $1000. When buying one, you should make sure that you do this with a recognized breeder. Then you know for sure that the puppy and the mother have been well cared for. Also, a recognized breeder is obliged to inform you of any hereditary disorders or diseases that appear in the pedigree.
In addition to the purchase, there are recurring costs. Here you have to think about the food, toys, care products and vet costs. It is good to take this into account and only purchase an Alaskan Malamute if you have enough money to take good care of the dog.
How much exercise does this breed need?
The Alaskan Malamute is an energetic dog breed and therefore needs a lot of exercise. It is a strong and athletic dog that has great stamina. Daily walks are not enough to keep an Alaskan Malamute happy. It is important that he can really expend his energy. Good activities that you could undertake with your dog are therefore running, swimming and cycling.
An Alaskan Malamute also likes to play independently in for example an enclosed area or a fenced garden. In this way he can use his energy. Besides playing independently, this dog breed also likes to play games with its owners. You can think of power and agility games.
By nature, an Alaskan Malamute is made to pull a sled. If it is winter and there is snow, you can recreate this with the dog. This dog breed enjoys it when there is snow, so let him play outside a lot.
Recognition in the USA
The Alaskan Malamute is officially recognized in the United States of America, this can be found on the official website of the American Kennel Club. This means that it is a healthy dog breed that can be bred with and can participate in various sporting events.
Do you already own an Alaskan Malamute or are you planning to purchase one?
The Alaskan Malamute is a friendly and energetic dog that will fit well into your family. He gets along well with children and is affectionate and devoted to his owner. However, this requires early socialization and proper education. Are you convinced and do you want to buy an Alaskan Malamute? Or do you already have an Alaskan Malamute and want to share your experiences? Then place a comment under this article!
