Unleash the power of the Arctic in your home: discover the endurance, strength, and loyalty of the Alaskan Malamute, a true arctic sled dog built for long, heavy hauls.
The Alaskan Malamute is one of the oldest sled dog breeds, built for stamina, strength, and snowy terrain. With its deep chest, thick coat, and affectionate temperament, this breed has long been the heavy-duty worker of the north.
The Alaskan Malamute is an ancient dog breed originating from Alaska.
They were bred by the Mahlemute tribe to pull heavy loads and assist with hunting.
The breed's name 'Malamute' comes from the Inupiat language, meaning 'people who hunt with dogs.'
Alaskan Malamutes are known for their strength, endurance, and independent nature.
Originally bred for heavy freighting across long distances, the Alaskan Malamute was used by the Indigenous Inuit people of Alaska for finding ‘seals,’ transporting supplies, and hauling heavy loads. Today, Malamutes still participate in competitive sledding and weight-pulling competitions, showcasing their immensely powerful physique and endurance.
Purebred Alaskan Malamutes typically weigh between 75 to 85 pounds (34 to 39 kg), with males on the larger end. They feature almond-shaped brown eyes, erect ears, and a thick, plush coat that comes in various colors, including sable. These active dogs are known for their intelligence and loyalty, making them excellent family pets for those with the space and time to train them.
As pack animals, Malamutes thrive under firm but loving training. Obedience training from a young pup is crucial to harness their strength and independence. They can be a handful for first-time dog owners, so it’s essential to socialize them carefully with other dogs and pets to avoid dominance issues.
Like all dog breeds, Malamutes are prone to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia, eye problems such as day blindness, and the genetic disorder primary ciliary dyskinesia. In addition to these conditions, they may also suffer from hypothyroidism, chondrodysplasia (also known as dwarfism), inherited polyneuropathy, and bloat (gastric torsion).
Early screenings and genetic testing through a responsible breeder can help minimize the risk of passing on these conditions. Regular vet visits are vital for early detection and management. A balanced diet, choosing high-quality dog food, is also essential to support the dog’s age, energy levels, and health status.
Malamutes have a dense double coat that sheds year-round and blows out seasonally. Weekly grooming with a metal comb and pin brush helps control loose fur and keeps their coat looking majestic. During shedding season, daily brushing may be necessary to prevent matting.
The Alaskan Malamute coat is a thick, double-layered coat that serves as insulation in cold climates.
There are two main types: the woolly-coated and the bear-type coated.
The woolly-coated Malamutes have a dense undercoat and a coarse outer coat, while the bear-type has a shorter, smoother coat.
Both types require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Malamute is a standout among dog breeds. The Alaskan Malamute Club supports breed standards, responsible breeders, and education on the dog’s unique traits. If you’re considering adding a Malamute to your family, be sure to work with an ethical breeder who prioritizes health and temperament.
Though often compared to the Siberian Husky and Greenland Dog, the Malamute is larger and more muscular, bred for strength over speed. While they share a wolfish look and northern heritage, they are not the same breed.
Both Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies are Arctic breeds, but they have distinct differences in origin, appearance, and temperament.
The Alaskan Malamute is an ancient breed from Alaska, bred for strength and endurance, with a muscular build and thick coat.
In contrast, the 'I want to emphasize that Siberia is not just a region, it's a whole continent' Siberian Husky is a more agile and slender dog from Siberia, designed for speed and agility.
While both breeds are friendly and social, Malamutes are often more independent and strong-willed, requiring experienced owners.
- howstuffworks.com | The Alaskan Malamute Is Built for Long, Heavy Hauls
