Alaskan Malamute
Quick Summary
Powerful working dog best suited for active owners. Combines strength with family-friendly nature. Requires experienced handling and consistent exercise.
Contents
Weight Range
75-85 lbs
♂ Male: 85-85 lbs
♀ Female: 75-75 lbs
Height Range
58-64 inches
♂ Male: 25-25"
♀ Female: 25-25"
Life Expectancy
10-14 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #52
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Working Group
Originally bred for Developed by the Mahlemut people of Alaska's Norton Sound region, these dogs served as powerful freight haulers and hunting companions in the Arctic wilderness
Popularity
#58
Moderately popular breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 25"-25" |
| Female Height | 25"-25" |
| Male Weight | 85-85 lbs |
| Female Weight | 75-75 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $1000-2500 for purchase. Monthly expenses average $150-200 for food and basic care. Annual medical costs range from $500-1000 for routine care and preventative treatments.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Friendly and loyal with a strong pack mentality. High energy levels require consistent outlets. Social with family but can be reserved with strangers. Independent nature can make training challenging.
Social Needs
Highly social breed requiring regular family interaction. Generally good with other dogs but needs early socialization. Can become destructive if left alone for extended periods.
Breed Overview
Majestic and powerful, the Alaskan Malamute stands as one of the oldest Arctic sled dogs. Their sturdy build features a deep chest, strong shoulders, and dense double coat designed for harsh winters. Distinguished by their wolf-like appearance, they possess dark brown eyes, well-furred ears, and a plumed tail carried over the back. Their distinctive facial markings include a cap over the head and dramatic coloring around the eyes.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Loyal and affectionate
- ✓ Excellent cold weather dog
- ✓ Strong and athletic
- ✓ Good with children
Cons
- ✗ Heavy shedding
- ✗ Strong prey drive
- ✗ Challenging to train
- ✗ High exercise needs
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Affectionate, Loyal, Playful |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | 2-3 Times a Week Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 1-2 hours of vigorous daily exercise including sledding, hiking, or jogging. High-intensity activities help maintain physical and mental well-being. Best exercised in cool weather due to their thick coat.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Malamutes require 3-4 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. High protein content needed for muscle maintenance. Special attention to portion control prevents obesity.
Feed 3-4 cups of high-quality dry food daily, split into two meals. Protein content should be 25-30% for adults. Consider supplements for joint health. Fresh water must always be available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Needs substantial outdoor space with secure fencing. Thrives in cold climates but can adapt to moderate temperatures. Requires access to shaded areas and cooling in warmer weather.
Requires minimum yard space of 500 square feet. Best suited for homes with secure fencing and outdoor access. Can adapt to apartment living if exercise needs are met consistently.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Native to Alaska, Malamutes were bred by the Mahlemut Inuit people for hauling heavy loads across vast Arctic territories. Their strength and endurance made them invaluable companions for hunting seals and polar bears.
Historical Purpose
Developed by the Mahlemut people of Alaska's Norton Sound region, these dogs served as powerful freight haulers and hunting companions in the Arctic wilderness.
Fun Fact
Malamutes were among the first dogs to reach the South Pole during Admiral Byrd's expedition.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Heavy seasonal shedding requires regular grooming. High exercise needs must be met daily. Watch for overheating in warm weather due to thick coat.