Labrador Retriever vs Alaskan Malamute
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Labrador Retriever: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Alaskan Malamute: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Labrador Retriever: Eager to Please1.0
Alaskan Malamute: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Labrador Retriever: Weekly Brushing0.4
Alaskan Malamute: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Labrador Retriever5/5
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Labrador Retriever5/5
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Good with Strangers
Labrador Retriever5/5
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Labrador Retriever
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
PRA: Progressive eye deterioration
Exercise-Induced Collapse: Activity limit
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
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
Labrador Retriever
Pros
Excellent family dog
Highly trainable
Great with children
Versatile working ability
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Prone to weight gain
Chewing tendency in puppyhood
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
Labrador Retriever Fun Fact
Labrador Retrievers have a special gene that makes them obsessed with food, contributing to their trainability!
Alaskan Malamute Fun Fact
Malamutes were among the first dogs to reach the South Pole during Admiral Byrd's expedition.
Heritage & Purpose
Labrador Retriever
Origin:
Developed in Newfoundland during the 1800s, these dogs worked alongside fishermen retrieving nets and fish, later refined in England as sporting and hunting companions.
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
Labrador Retriever
Regular grooming needed during heavy shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily. Weight management crucial to prevent obesity-related health issues.
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.
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