Alaskan Malamute vs Finnish Spitz

Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamute

Affectionate, Loyal, Playful

Finnish Spitz
Finnish Spitz

Friendly, Good-Natured, Lively

Breed Compatibility

80% Compatible

Energy Level

Alaskan Malamute: Energetic0.8
Finnish Spitz: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible

Trainability

Alaskan Malamute: Independent0.4
Finnish Spitz: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible

Grooming Needs

Alaskan Malamute: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Finnish Spitz: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible

Cost Category

Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible

Compatibility with Others

Good with Children
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Finnish Spitz5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Finnish Spitz4/5
Good with Strangers
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Finnish Spitz3/5

Health & Care Comparison

Alaskan Malamute

Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint abnormality
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Chondrodysplasia: Growth disorder

Finnish Spitz

Hip dysplasia: joint malformation
Patellar luxation: kneecap issues
Eye problems: progressive conditions
Epilepsy: neurological disorder
Dental issues: periodontal disease
Heart defects: cardiac concerns

Pros & Cons Comparison

Alaskan Malamute

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

Finnish Spitz

Pros
Loyal family companion
Excellent watchdog
Good with children
Low grooming needs
Cons
Frequent barker
High exercise needs
Strong prey drive
Independent nature

Alaskan Malamute Fun Fact

Malamutes were among the first dogs to reach the South Pole during Admiral Byrd's expedition.

Finnish Spitz Fun Fact

Finnish Spitz are known as 'Barking Bird Dogs' due to their unique hunting style of alerting hunters with their voice.

Heritage & Purpose

Alaskan Malamute

Origin: United States (Alaska)

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.

Finnish Spitz

Origin:

Developed in Finland during the 1800s, these dogs served as specialized hunting companions, using their distinctive barking technique to track and tree game birds.

Special Considerations

Alaskan Malamute

Heavy seasonal shedding requires regular grooming. High exercise needs must be met daily. Watch for overheating in warm weather due to thick coat.

Finnish Spitz

Regular brushing during shedding seasons, consistent exercise to manage energy levels, and early socialization to control barking tendencies are essential.

Shedding

Seasonal

Shedding

Seasonal

Related Comparisons