New Dog World: Alaskan Malamute Dog Breed: Playful Family Pet

Tuesday 25 March 2014

Alaskan Malamute Dog Breed: Playful Family Pet

Breed: Alaskan Malamute

AKC Breed Group: Working

Other Registries: ANKC (Utility); CKC (Working); FCI (Spitz and Primitive); KC (Working); UKC (Northern)

Weight: Male: 85, Female: 75 lbs

Height: Male: 25, Female: 23 inches

Color: gray and white, sable and white, black and white, red and white or solid white

Alaskan Malamute Overview

A large, wolf-like dog breed that is magnificent in appearance. The Alaskan Malamute was originally bred for use as an Alaskan sled dog. They are frequently mistaken for a Siberian Husky, but are quite different in many ways. The breed has a very quiet temperament and is a very devoted and loyal dog.

Alaskan Malamute Characteristics

This dog breed has a pleasant, affectionate and dependable nature, but tends to be rather single-minded. The Alaskan Malamute has almond-shaped eyes of various shades of brown. Physically, the Alaskan Malamute is compact, with a heavy bone-structure. This breed has a lustrous coat and the tail is well-furred and carried over the back like a “waving plume”. The Malamute’s furry tail aids in keeping them warm when they curl up in the snow.

Alaskan Malamute Temperament

The Alaskan Malamute is an extraordinarily loyal, intelligent and friendly dog. As puppies they can be boisterous, but on maturity the Alaskan Malamute becomes calm and quiet. With their pleasant character, they do not make the best guard dogs. Although very intelligent, the Alaskan Malamute does have stubborn tendencies and can be a challenge to train.

Alaskan Malamute Care

The Alaskan Malamute has a really thick and coarse coat and should be brushed at least twice a week. They are heavy shedders and shed their undercoat twice a year. The Alaskan Malamute seldom requires a bath as they simply shed dirt. Although a hardy breed, they are prone to hip dysplasia, chondrodysplasia, and bloat.

Alaskan Malamute Coat

This proud dog breed has a really lovely double coat. The outercoat is thick and coarse, protecting the Alaskan Malamute from even the most extreme weather conditions. Beneath the coarse coat is a very smooth, dense and oily undercoat. The coat comes in a variety of colors, including various shades of gray and white, sable and white, black and white, red and white or solid white. The legs and muzzle of Alaskan Malamute are generally white.

Alaskan Malamute Training

Bred for sledding and independence, the Alaskan Malamute can prove to be a stubborn dog. They are a highly intelligent breed who bore easily. Variety, coupled with a bit of fun is essential for success. The Alaskan Malamute is widely believed to be one of the most difficult dogs to train.

Alaskan Malamute Activity

This dog breed is not well-suited to apartment living and a reasonably large yard is best. The Alaskan Malamute is very energetic and active and loves to be outdoors. Daily walks are recommended.