Swedish Vallhund vs Alaskan Malamute
Breed Compatibility
84% Compatible
Energy Level
Swedish Vallhund: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Alaskan Malamute: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Swedish Vallhund: Eager to Please1.0
Alaskan Malamute: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Swedish Vallhund: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Alaskan Malamute: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Swedish Vallhund5/5
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Good with Strangers
Swedish Vallhund3/5
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Swedish Vallhund
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Retinal Dysplasia: Eye development issue
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Swedish Vallhund Retinopathy: Vision
Intervertebral Disk Disease: Spine
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision
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
Swedish Vallhund
Pros
Highly trainable
Good with families
Excellent watchdog
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Seasonal shedding
Strong herding instinct
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
Swedish Vallhund Fun Fact
Swedish Vallhunds were nearly extinct in the 1940s but were saved by the efforts of one breeding pair!
Alaskan Malamute Fun Fact
Malamutes were among the first dogs to reach the South Pole during Admiral Byrd's expedition.
Heritage & Purpose
Swedish Vallhund
Origin:
Dating back to the Viking Age in Sweden, these dogs served as versatile farm helpers, excelling in cattle herding and vermin control throughout Västergötland.
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
Swedish Vallhund
Regular grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise requirements, and early socialization to manage herding instincts are essential care aspects.
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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