Gray and white Alaskan malamute.
Photo: G. Trouillet/Jacana/Photo Researchers, Inc.
Height: 23-25 inches.
Weight: 75-85 lbs.
Life Span: 10-12 yrs.
Breed Group:
Northern Overview
The Alaskan malamute is fiercely loyal to its "pack," loves the children of its own family, and gets along with other animals if socialized with them early on. It must have early obedience classes from an experienced trainer. Leave an untrained malamute alone and he will HOWL!
Appearance
The outercoat is long, thick, and coarse; the undercoat is dense, oily, and woolly, and can be two inches deep. Coat color is light gray and white, black and white, or all white.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
The malamute requires weekly or twice-weekly brushing. Its undercoat sheds profusely once or twice a year, at which time it needs to be brushed daily. Without physical and mental stimulation this dog becomes destructive both indoors and out. Jogging, hiking, or backpacking (the dog carrying its own pack) are perfect daily activities. During hot weather, stick to early-morning and late-evening workouts for this Arctic breed.
Origins
This hardy dog was used by the Inuits 1,000 years ago for pulling sleds and for traveling long distances in subzero temperatures.
Special Alerts
The Alaskan malamute is not suitable for inexperienced dog owners or for apartment life.
Breed-related health concerns: hip dysplasia, dwarfism, hemolytic anemia (a disorder of the red blood cells), congenital kidney problems.
Free Download Now!
