Border Terrier vs Alaskan Malamute
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
Border Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Alaskan Malamute: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Border Terrier: Easy Training0.8
Alaskan Malamute: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Border Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Alaskan Malamute: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Border Terrier5/5
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Border Terrier3/5
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Good with Strangers
Border Terrier4/5
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Border Terrier
Hip dysplasia: joint malformation
SLEM: spongiform encephalopathy
Heart defects: valve issues
Epilepsy: seizure disorder
Eye problems: progressive issues
Dental issues: tooth decay risk
Alaskan Malamute
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint abnormality
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Chondrodysplasia: Growth disorder
Pros & Cons Comparison
Border Terrier
Pros
Excellent with families
Adaptable to different living situations
Low grooming requirements
Good with children
Cons
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
May dig and bark
Needs consistent exercise
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
Border Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Border Terriers were bred to keep pace with horses during fox hunts!
Alaskan Malamute Fun Fact
Malamutes were among the first dogs to reach the South Pole during Admiral Byrd's expedition.
Heritage & Purpose
Border Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the border country between England and Scotland during the 18th century, these terriers excelled at hunting foxes and rodents in the rugged terrain.
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.
Special Considerations
Border Terrier
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat condition. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
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.
Shedding
OccasionalShedding
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