Schipperke vs Alaskan Malamute
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Schipperke
Non-Sporting Group
Alaskan Malamute
Working Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Schipperke Overview
Schipperkes are small, sturdy dogs with distinctive black coats and fox-like faces. Their well-muscled bodies support an alert, confident stance, while their thick double coat forms a characteristic ruff, cape, and culottes. Standing 11-13 inches tall, these agile dogs move with purpose and grace, displaying their heritage as both watchdogs and ratters through their keen expression and quick movements.
Alaskan Malamute 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 Differences
- Energy Level: Schipperkes are less energetic than Alaskan Malamutes, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Schipperkes require less grooming attention compared to Alaskan Malamutes.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Schipperkes tend to be more reserved with strangers than Alaskan Malamutes.
- Trainability: Alaskan Malamutes may be slightly easier to train due to their Alaskan Malamute's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Schipperkes adapt better to apartment living, while Alaskan Malamutes typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Schipperke and Alaskan Malamute, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Schipperke | Alaskan Malamute |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years | 10-14 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | United States (Alaska) |
| Breed Group | Non-Sporting Group | Working Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Schipperke | Alaskan Malamute |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 10-13 inches 25-33 cm | 23-25 inches 58-64 cm |
| Weight | 10-16 lbs 5-7 kg | 75-85 lbs 34-39 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Schipperke | Alaskan Malamute |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Confident, Alert, Curious | Affectionate, Loyal, Playful |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Schipperke | Alaskan Malamute |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Schipperke Temperament
The Schipperke is known for being confident, alert, curious, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. With their high energy levels, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Alaskan Malamute Temperament
The Alaskan Malamute is characterized by being affectionate, loyal, playful, which makes them better for households without small children. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their high energy requires substantial daily exercise and activities to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Schipperke and Alaskan Malamute, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Schipperke
Rating: 3/5
Alaskan Malamute
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Schipperke
Rating: 3/5
Alaskan Malamute
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Schipperke
Rating: 4/5
Alaskan Malamute
Rating: 4/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Schipperke
Rating: 2/5
Alaskan Malamute
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Schipperke
Rating: 3/5
Alaskan Malamute
Rating: 4/5
Care & Maintenance
Schipperke Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Schipperkes require significant daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and more vigorous activities like running, swimming, or fetch.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Schipperkes require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Alaskan Malamute Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Alaskan Malamutes need substantial daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and more intense activities like running, swimming, or agility training.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Alaskan Malamutes require significant grooming attention. This includes brushing several times per week to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is typically necessary.
Health & Lifespan
Schipperke Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Patellar Luxation
- MPS IIIB
- Thyroid Issues
- Eye Problems
- Hip Issues
Alaskan Malamute Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Bloat
- Eye Problems
- Hypothyroidism
Pros & Cons
Schipperke
Pros
- Excellent watchdog
- Compact size
- Low grooming needs
- Long lifespan
Cons
- Can be stubborn
- Barks frequently
- Strong prey drive
- Independent nature
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
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Schipperke and Alaskan Malamute, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.