Height: averages 25 inches (male); averages 23 inches (female).
Size: Large.
Weight: averages 85 pounds (male); averages 75 (female). Availability: May take
some effort to find.
History:
The Alaskan Malamute was originally used 2000 to 3000 years ago by the Mahlemuit
Eskimos of Alaska. The dogs were the only form of transportation for the Eskimos
and were highly valued. They pulled light traveling sleds, and hauled heavy
loads (including food supplies). Later, the Malamute went with Admiral Byrd's
expeditions to the pole. This breed has amazing strength, endurance and heart.
Description:
Large, strong, heavy-boned Arctic dog with a thick, coarse double coat and a
well-furred, plumed tail held over the back. The Alaskan Malamute is built for
endurance and strength, not for speed. The powerful chest is about half as deep
as the height at the shoulder. The feet are furry and have tough pads. The head
is broad with erect ears and brown, triangular, wide-set eyes (the eyes should
never be blue). There should be a slight furrow between the eyes. The Alaskan
Malamute has a double coat made of a coarse outer guard coat and a dense, wooly,
oily undercoat. Colors are white, black and 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. White is the only solid color allowed. All
the other colors should be in combinations, with white as the predominant color
on the underbelly. A white blaze on the forehead and/or collar is a plus. For
every coat color, except the reds, the rims of the eyes, the nose, and the lips
should be black. A scissors bite is standard. In some areas, dogs may be either
smaller or larger than the official standard.
Notes:
Beware of puppy-mill dogs as health and temperament problems are occurring.
This breed can be difficult to housebreak because of its dominance. The Malamute
likes to roam in what he considers to be his territory, so he must have a well-
fenced yard. Massively heavy shedder during his shedding periods. Quiet compared
to most dogs, but likes to howl. Can be a digger. The Malamute should be supervised
around unfamiliar small animals, as he has a strong prey instinct. However,
Malamutes have been known to raise small kittens as their own. The Malamute's
coat allows him to withstand extreme cold, but care will be needed to keep the
dog cool in hot climates. The Malamute should be given shade and plenty of cool
water. Proper socialization with people and other dogs is imperative. Obedience
training is highly recommended. Both sexes can be very combative with other
dogs, especially with the same sex and breed. Generally a very hardy dog--lives
to about 12 years (fairly long life span for a large breed). Prone to hip dysplasia
(but no more than other large breeds and less than many) and chondrodysplasia
(a type of dwarfism). Require OFA, CERF, and ChD (dwarfism test) certification
of both parents.
Personality:
A rambunctious puppy, this breed is great with children who are old enough to
play with him safely. Generally matures into a dignified and mellow adult. Very
friendly, 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 attention, these dogs may
become destructive nuisances. 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.
Behaviour:
Children: Best with older, considerate children.
Friendliness: Loves everyone.
Trainability: somewhat difficult to train.
Independence: Very independent
Dominance: Moderate.
Other Pets: May be aggressive with dogs of the same sex; do not trust with non-canine
pets.
Combativeness: Very dog-aggressive.
Noise: Likes to howl.
Grooming and Physical Needs:
Grooming: A little grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Fluffy coat.
Shedding: Seasonally heavy shedder.
Exercise: Needs lots of exercise.
Jogging: An excellent jogging companion.
Indoors: Fairly active indoors.
Apartments: Not recommended for apartments.
Outdoor Space: Best with a large yard.
Climate: Prefers cool climates.
Owner: Not recommended for novice owners.
Longevity: Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years).
Talents:
search & rescue, sledding, carting, weight pulling, and racing.
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