The Alaskan Malamute is the oldest and largest sled dog of arctic. The dog has great endurance and strength. He isn’t meant for racing but to carry large loads over long distances. Most of these dogs today are kept as house pets yet they enjoy an athletic environment and indulge in swimming, back-packing, weight-pulling and jogging with their owners.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: Alaska
Used for: Racing, Companion
Average Life Span: 12-16 years
Color: Gray, black, white and red
Coat: Thick, dense and long double coat
Average Height: 24-26 inches
Average Weight: 80-95 pounds
Group: Northern, AKC Working
History and Domestication
The dog gets its name from Mahlemuts which was an Alaskan tribe that raised and cared for these dogs.
Alaskan Malamutes are Nordic sled dogs who descended from the Arctic Wolf.
The Alaskan Malamute is thought to be an ancestor of the tamed wolf-dogs that traveled with the earliest Paleolithic hunters through the Bearing Straight land bridges more than 4,000 years ago.
Much archaeological evidence points to the Malamute as the original canine companion of humans.
Standard Physical Characteristics
The thick and well built dog has a plumed tail held over its back. It has a wide head with erect ears. The eyes are medium sized and almond-shaped which are dark brown in color. The dog resembles a wolf albeit a sweet and proud expression. Its wide feet are of the shape of a snowshoe but with tough pads. It has a thick and coarse double coat that is about 3 inches long and comes in shades of light gray, intermediate shades of black and sable to red. Some combinations can include black and white, red, wolf gray or wolf sable which has a dark gray outer coat with a red undercoat. White is the only solid color allowed. Sometimes dark highlights or a dark mask and cap can also be spotted on the dog. However, its muzzle and legs are white in most cases. Sometimes, the dog can be larger or smaller than the official size.
Care, Grooming and Health
Alaskan Malamutes need plenty of exercise like long walks on regular basis. But don’t overdo it in summers. This breed is prone to hip dyslexia, bloating and dwarfism.
Its dense coat needs brushing twice a week. They are heavy shedders and the undercoat may come out in clumps twice a year. The dog is clean and odorless.
Living Conditions
This breed isn’t recommended for an apartment life as they are active outdoors and need a large yard. If you live in the suburbs, you need a high fence along with a buried base because the dog can dig his way out. Their coat keeps them warm in cold temperatures but in hot climates you will have to keep them cool.
Temperament
Towards its master, the dog is extremely intelligent and loyal, sweet and affectionate. It can also do well with children old enough to play safely with him. When its canine instincts are met, the result is a mellow and dignified adult dog. The breed isn’t suited as guard dogs as they are friendly dogs. Alaskan Malamutes prefer living outdoors as long as they have company but they do love staying indoors as long as their human “pack” accompanies them. However, the dogs can become destructive nuisances and act as big rambunctious puppies without firm leadership and daily mental and physical exercise.
