Alaskan Malamute

The draft horse of the Arctic, the Alaskan Malamute was developed by the Inuit Indians of Alaska to haul heavy loads at steady speeds over long distances. They were built for strength and endurance and the ability to survive harsh Arctic temperatures.

With a thick double coat and attractive symmetrical markings, the Alaskan Malamute may have a “wolfish” appearance but historic research indicates the Inuit breeders kept their dogs free from any wolf genes.

8 to 10 years

The Alaskan Malamute can range from 59cm to 64cm in size, and weigh between 34kg and 39kg.

Alaskan Malamutes are highly intelligent and super friendly to humans. They enjoy being surrounded by people, whether they are family members or strangers. Alaskan Malamutes are always eager to please and get involved in any active and exciting activities. However, they are known to show aggression towards other dogs, especially of the same sex. Obedience training is a must in order to keep your Malamute under control at all times.

Due to their size and strength, Alaskan Malamutes are most suited to outdoor-type adults who are able to provide a wide range of activities to keep them challenged and entertained.

Alaskan Malamutes were bred to pull sleds, therefore require sufficient exercise to satisfy their abundant needs. If given insufficient attention and companionship, they will become bored and destructive.

Due to their friendliness and devotion to humans, the Alaskan Malamute generally makes a poor guard dog. Independence and stubbornness are two of the traits of the Alaskan Malamute and these, coupled with their immense strength, mean it is necessary to provide them with obedience training and discipline from an early age (3 months). Lack of confident, firm human leadership can ruin an otherwise wonderful Alaskan Malamute making them domineering over humans and unmanageably aggressive toward other dogs.

For the latest research in breed-related problems in Alaskan Malamute visit the https://www.sydney.edu.au/ website.