Alaskan Malamute vs Irish Setter
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Alaskan Malamute: Energetic0.8
Irish Setter: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Alaskan Malamute: Independent0.4
Irish Setter: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Alaskan Malamute: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Irish Setter: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Irish Setter5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Irish Setter5/5
Good with Strangers
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Irish Setter5/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
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
Irish Setter
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
PRA: Progressive eye disease
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
OCD: Joint cartilage issue
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
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
Irish Setter
Pros
Affectionate and friendly
Athletic and energetic
Good with families
Beautiful appearance
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be stubborn
Not ideal for apartments
Alaskan Malamute Fun Fact
Malamutes were among the first dogs to reach the South Pole during Admiral Byrd's expedition.
Irish Setter Fun Fact
Their flowing red coat earned them the nickname 'Rolling Thunder' among Irish hunters in the 1800s.
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.
Irish Setter
Origin:
Developed in Ireland during the 1800s, these dogs excelled at hunting game birds across vast territories. Their distinctive red coat made them visible to hunters in field conditions.
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.
Irish Setter
Regular grooming needed for silky coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Watch for signs of hip problems and eye issues as they age.
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