Alaskan Malamute dog breed are among the most popular breeds in the United States. They make great family pets and are known for their strength and endurance. This guide will discuss everything you need to know about Alaskan Malamutes, including their history, temperament, and how to care for them.
Alaskan Malamute dog overview
The Alaskan Malamute is a large, powerful dog breed with a thick coat of fur that helps protect them from cold weather conditions. They were originally bred for sledding and other working purposes, but today they are popular pets. Alaskan Malamutes are known for being friendly and good with children, but they can also be stubborn and independent. If you’re thinking about getting an Alaskan Malamute, read on to learn more about this fascinating dog breed.
History of the Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is one of the oldest dog breeds in existence, dating back over 4000 years ago to the Mahlemut tribe in Alaska. These dogs were used for sledding, hunting, and other working purposes. Alaskan Malamutes were brought to the United States in the late 1800s, and they quickly gained popularity as pets and working dogs.
Today, Alaskan Malamutes are still popular pets, but they are no longer used for sledding or other work purposes. Instead, they are bred purely for companionship. Alaskan Malamutes are recognized by the American Kennel Club and are considered a rare breed of dog.
The appearance of Alaskan Malamutes
Alaskan Malamutes are large dogs, with males typically weighing between 75 and 85 pounds and females weighing between 55 and 65 pounds. They have thick fur coats that come in a variety of colors, including white, gray, black, and red. Alaskan Malamutes also have a thick tail that they often curl over their backs.
Alaskan Malamutes are considered a working breed of dog, which means they have high energy levels and need plenty of exercises. If you’re thinking about getting an Alaskan Malamute, be prepared to provide them with daily walks or runs, as well as access to a large backyard where they can run and play.
Alaskan Malamute Temperament
Alaskan Malamutes are known for being friendly and good with children. They are also very stubborn and independent, which can make training them challenging. Alaskan Malamutes need firm, consistent training from an experienced owner. They are not a good breed of dog for first-time dog owners.
Alaskan Malamutes are also known for being escape artists. They are very strong and determined, which means they can easily jump fences or dig under them. If you have an Alaskan Malamute, it’s important to keep them in a secure yard with a high fence. Alaskan Malamutes should also be kept on a leash when they’re outside of their yard, as they have a strong prey drive and may chase after small animals if given the chance.
#FACTS
Alaskan Malamutes need a lot of exercises. They love to run and play and will be happiest if they have access to a large yard or park.
Alaskan Malamute Health
Alaskan Malamutes are generally healthy dogs, but there are a few health conditions to be aware of. Hip dysplasia is a common problem in Alaskan Malamutes, as well as other large breeds of dogs. This condition causes the hip joint to develop abnormally, which can lead to pain and arthritis. Alaskan Malamutes are also susceptible to eye problems, such as cataracts and glaucoma.
Caring for an Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes require a lot of exercises, so they are not a good breed of dog for people who live in apartments or small homes without access to a yard. They also need daily brushing and grooming due to their thick fur coats. Alaskan Malamutes should be bathed once every few months to prevent their fur from becoming matted.
If you’re thinking about getting an Alaskan Malamute, be prepared to provide them with plenty of exercise, grooming, and training. They are a high-maintenance breed of dog, but they are also incredibly loyal and loving companions.
Alaskan Malamute Dog information
Alaskan Malamutes are a type of domestic dog (Canis lupus familiarise) originally bred for their strength and endurance to haul heavy freight as sled dogs. They are similar to other arctic breeds such as the Greenland Dog, Canadian Eskimo Dog, Alaskan Husky, and the Siberian Husky. Alaskan Malamutes are considered a large breed of dog, typically weighing between 75 and 85 pounds.
The Alaskan Malamute is the largest member of the Spitz family of dogs which includes breeds such as Akitas, Chow Chows, Samoyeds, Shiba Inus, and numerous others. These dogs all share common ancestry with wolves and have thick double coats of fur that protect them from cold weather conditions. Alaskan Malamutes are also known for their striking blue eyes and large furry tails that curl over their backs.
The Alaskan Malamute is a descendant of the Alaskan wolf, one of the largest subspecies of wolves in the world. These dogs were originally bred by the Mahlemut Inuit people of Alaska to help with tasks such as pulling sleds and hunting seal pups. Alaskan Malamutes were brought to Europe and North America in the late 1800s where they quickly became popular pets and working dogs.
Today, Alaskan Malamutes are still used as working dogs in some parts of the world but are more commonly kept as loyal and loving family pets. These dogs are still very strong and athletic, making them great companions for active people and families. Alaskan Malamutes are also known for their independent nature and can be somewhat stubborn, so they may not be the best breed for first-time dog owners.
How to train Alaskan malamute?
Alaskan Malamutes are one of the most popular dog breeds. They’re also one of the most misunderstood. Alaskan Malamutes are not wolves, and they shouldn’t be treated like them. Alaskan Malamutes are bred as working dogs, and their main purpose is to pull heavy sleds over long distances in cold climates.
As such, Alaskan Malamutes need a lot of exercises – both mental and physical. Alaskan Malamutes are also very intelligent, and they can be easily trained to do various tricks and tasks. However, Alaskan Malamutes require a lot of patience and consistency when it comes to training. Training an Alaskan Malamute can be a challenging but rewarding experience.
If you’re thinking of getting an Alaskan Malamute, or if you already have one, it’s important to understand their needs and how to properly train them. With the right training methods, Alaskan Malamutes can be great family pets. Here are a few tips on how to train your Alaskan Malamute:
- Start training early: It’s important to start training your Alaskan Malamute as soon as possible. The earlier you start, the easier it will be to teach them basic obedience commands and tricks. Alaskan Malamutes are very intelligent, but they also have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercises. Starting training early will help ensure that your Alaskan Malamute gets the mental and physical stimulation they need.
- Be consistent: Alaskan Malamutes require consistency when it comes to training. They need to know what is expected of them and what behaviors are not allowed. If you’re inconsistent with your commands or rewards, Alaskan Malamutes will quickly become confused and stop responding to your commands. It’s important to be patient and consistent when training an Alaskan Malamute.
- Use positive reinforcement: Alaskan Malamutes respond well to positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise. When they obey a command or perform a trick correctly, be sure to give them plenty of praise and rewards. This will help encourage them to continue obeying commands and performing tricks.
- Avoid punishment: Alaskan Malamutes are very sensitive, and they do not respond well to punishment. Yelling, hitting, or scolding an Alaskan Malamute will only make them scared and confused. It’s important to avoid using any form of punishment when training an Alaskan Malamute. Instead, focus on using positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors.
With these tips in mind, you can start training your Alaskan Malamute today. With patience and consistency, you can teach them obedience commands, tricks, and anything else you want them to learn.
How big can an Alaskan malamute get?
Alaskan malamutes can get pretty big! They typically weigh anywhere from 50 to 85 pounds, and they can grow to be anywhere from 22 to 28 inches tall. But don’t let their size fool you – these dogs are incredibly strong and powerful. They were originally bred as working dogs, so they have the stamina and strength to work all day long.
How much should an Alaskan malamute eat?
How much your Alaskan Malamute eats depends on their age, activity level, and metabolism. Puppies under five months old should be fed three to four times a day. Adults should be fed twice a day. Alaskan Malamutes are active dogs and need a high-quality diet to maintain their energy levels. Talk to your veterinarian about how much food is right for your dog.
Overfeeding an Alaskan Malamute can lead to health problems like obesity and joint issues. Be sure to measure out their food and avoid giving them table scraps or other treats throughout the day. A healthy weight for an Alaskan Malamute is 50-70 pounds for females and 60-85 pounds for males.
If you’re not sure if your Alaskan Malamute is at a healthy weight, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you create a weight loss or maintenance plan for your dog. Alaskan Malamutes are prone to obesity, so it’s important to keep an eye on their weight and feed them accordingly.
How long does a Malamute live?
Alaskan Malamutes typically have a lifespan of around 11-13 years. However, some Alaskan Malamutes have been known to live up to 15 or even 16 years old.
While Alaskan Malamutes are considered a relatively healthy dog breed, there are still some health conditions that they are prone to developing. Some of the most common health problems seen in Alaskan Malamutes include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye problems, and bloat.
Fortunately, if you do your research and purchase your Alaskan Malamute from a reputable breeder, the chances of your dog developing any serious health problems are greatly reduced.
Why do Malamutes dig holes?
A lot of Alaskan Malamutes love to dig holes in the ground. Some people think that they do this because they’re trying to get back to their ancestors who used to live in the wild. Others believe that they just enjoy the feeling of digging and being able to explore underground. Whatever the reason, it’s important to make sure that your Alaskan Malamute has a safe place to dig if they enjoy doing this activity. Otherwise, they may end up damaging your property or getting hurt themselves.
If you’re thinking about getting an Alaskan Malamute, be prepared for some potential hole-digging behavior. It’s best to provide them with a designated area where it’s okay for them to dig. This way, you can avoid any damage to your property or yard and keep your Alaskan Malamute safe and happy.
Are Alaskan Malamutes high maintenance?
Alaskan Malamutes are not high-maintenance dogs. They do require some grooming, but nothing too extensive. Their coat should be brushed a few times a week to prevent matting and tangles. Other than that, they are relatively low-maintenance dogs.
#FACTS
Alaskan Malamutes are working dogs and love to have a job to do. If you don’t provide them with enough mental and physical stimulation, they may become bored and destructive.
Are Malamutes good with other dogs?
The Alaskan Malamute is not typically aggressive towards other dogs, but they can be dominant. They may try to assert themselves over other dogs in the home, so it’s important that they are properly socialized from an early age. If you have another dog in the home, make sure to introduce them slowly and supervised at first. Alaskan Malamutes can also be a bit too rough when playing with smaller dogs, so it’s important to keep an eye on them around other animals.
Overall, Alaskan Malamutes are generally good with other dogs, but it’s important to take some precautions and introduce them properly if you have another pet in the home.
Is an Alaskan Malamute a good first dog?
The Alaskan Malamute is not typically recommended as a first-time dog breed. They are large, powerful dogs that require experienced owners who can provide them with firm, consistent training, and socialization. Alaskan Malamutes are also known to be escape artists, so a secure, well-fenced yard is a must. If you’re looking for a small, low-maintenance dog breed as your first pet, the Alaskan Malamute is probably not the right choice for you.
What’s the difference between an Alaskan Malamute and an Alaskan Husky?
Alaskan Malamutes and Alaskan Huskies are often confused for one another since they are both large, snowy-coated dogs that originate from Alaska. However, there are several key differences between the two breeds. Alaskan Malamutes are much larger than Alaskan Huskies, with males weighing in at over 100 pounds.
They also have a thick double coat that is designed for cold weather, whereas Alaskan Huskies have a thinner coat that is better suited for warmer climates. Finally, Alaskan Malamutes are known for being independent and stubborn, while Alaskan Huskies are typically more obedient and easy to train.
Are Alaskan malamutes good pets?
Alaskan malamutes are not the best choice for first-time dog owners. They require a lot of patience, time, and energy to train. However, once they are trained, they make excellent companions and loyal family dogs. If you’re looking for a cuddly lapdog, though, the Alaskan malamute is probably not the right breed for you.
Here are a few things to consider if you’re thinking about getting an Alaskan malamute:
- They need lots of exercise. Alaskan malamutes were bred as working dogs, and they still have that instinct today. They need at least an hour of vigorous exercise every day – more if possible. If you don’t have the time or energy to commit to that, an Alaskan malamute is probably not the right dog for you.
- They’re escape artists. Alaskan malamutes are notorious for their Houdini-like ability to escape from yards and houses. If you’re not prepared to invest in a secure, escape-proof enclosure, an Alaskan malamute is probably not the right dog for you.
- They’re stubborn. Alaskan malamutes are intelligent dogs, but they can also be very stubborn. They need a patient owner who is willing to put in the time and effort to train them properly. If you’re not up for that challenge, an Alaskan malamute is probably not the right dog for you.
- They’re not the best choice for families with small children. Alaskan malamutes are large, powerful dogs, and they can be very protective of their family members – including small children. If you have young kids at home, an Alaskan malamute is probably not the right dog for you.
If you think you might be interested in getting an Alaskan malamute, do your research and talk to people who own them before making a decision. They’re beautiful, impressive dogs – but they’re also a lot of work. Make sure you’re up for the challenge before taking one home.
Is Alaskan Malamute a family dog?
Alaskan Malamutes are not typically considered to be family dogs. This is because they require a lot of exercise and space, and they can be quite independent. They are also known to be very strong-willed, which can make them challenging to train. However, if you are willing to put in the time and effort, Alaskan Malamutes can make great companions. Just be sure that you are prepared for a high-energy dog who needs plenty of attention and exercise.
Do Malamutes bite?
Malamutes are not known for being particularly aggressive, but like any dog, they may bite if they feel threatened or scared. If you are considering getting a Malamute, it is important to socialize them from a young age and to train them properly so that they know how to behave around people and other animals.
Malamutes are also strong dogs, so it is important to be careful when handling them. They should never be left alone with small children, as they may accidentally knock them over or hurt them in some way. If you have an Alaskan Malamute, it is important to provide plenty of exercise and stimulation for them so that they do not become bored or destructive.
Overall, Alaskan Malamutes are gentle, loving dogs that make great family pets. With proper training and socialization, they can be a loyal and affectionate companion for life.
Do Malamutes turn on their owners?
No, Alaskan Malamutes do not turn on their owners. However, they may become aggressive if they feel threatened or if they sense that their owner is in danger. Alaskan Malamutes are also known to be very protective of their families and homes.
Do Malamutes run away like huskies?
Alaskan Malamutes are not known for running away, but they may roam if they’re bored or not properly exercised. If you live in an area with a lot of open space, it’s important to keep your Alaskan Malamute on a leash or in a secure area. Like all dogs, Alaskan Malamutes need plenty of exercise and stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Without enough physical and mental activity, Alaskan Malamutes can become destructive or high-strung.
#FACTS
Alaskan Malamutes are very social creatures and love to be around people. They are not a good choice for families who are gone all day or who do not have time to devote to their dog.
Is a Malamute a wolf?
This is a common question that people ask when they see our Alaskan Malamutes for the first time. They are a large and imposing breed of dog, after all.
But no, Alaskan Malamutes are not wolves. In fact, they’re one of the oldest domesticated breeds of dogs in the world, dating back over 12,000 years. The Alaskan Malamute is a member of the Spitz family of dogs, which includes other popular breeds like the Samoyed, Akita, and Shiba Inu. These dogs were originally bred by the Mahlemut tribe in Alaska to help with hunting and hauling heavy loads through the snow.
Do Malamutes bark?
Alaskan Malamutes are not known for being particularly vocal. They may bark when they are excited or to alert their owner to something, but they generally do not bark excessively. This is one of the reasons why they make great apartment dogs.
What is the Alaskan Malamute’s coat like?
The Alaskan Malamute has a thick, double coat that protects them from the cold weather. The outercoat is coarse and sheds heavily, while the undercoat is soft and dense. The coat requires frequent brushing to prevent matting and tangling.
Are Alaskan Malamutes good with children?
Alaskan Malamutes are good with children if they are raised together. They are gentle and patient, but their size can make them overwhelming for small children. It is important to socialize Alaskan Malamutes from a young age so that they are comfortable around people of all ages.
Alaskan Malamutes make great family dogs because of their loyalty and protective nature. They will guard your home and family from strangers, but they are also gentle and loving with those they know and trust. If you’re looking for a big, hairy companion, the Alaskan Malamute might be the perfect dog for you!
Are Malamutes challenging to train?
Malamutes are not the easiest dogs to train. They are very independent and stubborn, so it takes a lot of patience and consistency to get them to obey commands. However, they are very intelligent and can learn quickly if you are willing to put in the time and effort. With patience and positive reinforcement, you can train your Malamute to be a well-behaved companion.
Is Malamute better than Husky?
This is a difficult question to answer, as it really depends on what you are looking for in a dog. If you are looking for a working dog that is bred to pull heavy loads over long distances, then the Alaskan Malamute is probably the better choice. If you are simply looking for a beautiful and relatively low-maintenance pet, then the Siberian Husky might be the better option. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what you are hoping to get out of owning one of these amazing dogs.
#FACTS
Alaskan Malamutes are one of the heaviest shedding dog breeds. They shed year-round, but especially in the spring and fall. Be prepared to vacuum often!
Are Malamutes violent?
Alaskan Malamutes are not naturally violent or aggressive, but they may become so if they are not properly socialized. It is important to expose them to as many different people and situations as possible when they are young so that they learn to trust and accept others. Without proper socialization, Alaskan Malamutes can be timid or even fearful of people and other animals, which can lead to aggression.
How do Malamutes show affection?
One way Alaskan Malamutes show affection is by leaning on their owner. They also like to sleep close to their family and may even curl up in their laps. These dogs are very devoted to their people and love being around them as much as possible. Malamutes are also known for being very playful and will often engage in rough-and-tumble play with their owners. They are also very good at tricks and many of them enjoy learning new ones.
Another way Alaskan Malamutes express affection is through eye contact. They will often stare at their owner or family member with a soft, loving expression. This breed is also known for its loyalty and will often follow its owner around everywhere they go. Alaskan Malamutes are very protective of their family and will do anything to keep them safe.
Finally, Alaskan Malamutes show affection by being very vocal. They may howl or sing when they are happy or excited. They also tend to make a lot of noise when they are left alone and may bark or whine until their owner comes back. Alaskan Malamutes are very social creatures and love being around people.
Overall, Alaskan Malamutes are a very affectionate breed of dog that loves being around their family. They are known for being loyal, playful, and vocal.
Are Malamutes jealous?
Malamutes are not particularly jealous dogs, but they can become possessive of their food and toys if not properly trained. It is important to socialize them from a young age so that they learn to share and coexist with other dogs.
Are Malamutes intelligent?
Yes, Alaskan Malamutes are intelligent dogs. They are quick learners and can be trained to do tricks and obey commands. However, they can also be stubborn and independent, so it is important to start training early.
Like all dog breeds, Alaskan Malamutes need plenty of exercises. They were originally bred for sledding, so they have a lot of energy. A daily walk or run will help to keep them happy and healthy.
Are Malamutes smarter than huskies?
This is a question that gets asked a lot, and the answer is not as simple as you might think. Both Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies are intelligent breeds, but they excel in different ways.
Malamutes are considered the better working dogs of the two breeds. They’re more independent and can think for themselves when it comes to problem-solving. Huskies, on the other hand, are known for their people-pleasing personalities. They’re more likely to follow commands without question and don’t need as much independence when working.
So which breed is smarter? It really depends on what you’re looking for in a dog. If you want a loyal companion who will always obey your commands, then a husky is the better choice. But if you’re looking for a dog who can think on its own and get the job done, an Alaskan Malamute is your best bet.
Can Alaskan Malamute survive in hot weather?
Alaskan Malamutes are bred for cold climates, so they don’t do well in hot weather. If you live in a warmer climate, make sure you have a cool place for your Alaskan Malamute to stay during the hottest days of summer. Alaskan Malamutes are also susceptible to heatstroke, so it’s important to keep an eye on them in warm weather and make sure they’re staying cool and comfortable.
#FACTS
Alaskan Malamutes were originally bred as working dogs by the Mahlemut Inupiat people of Alaska.
Do Malamutes need AC?
Alaskan Malamutes are a type of dog that was originally bred for colder climates. Many people think that this means they don’t do well in warmer weather, but that’s not necessarily true. While it’s true that Alaskan Malamutes are more susceptible to heat stroke than other breeds, they can still enjoy the warm weather as long as their owners take some precautions.
One of the most important things to remember is that Alaskan Malamutes need access to shade and water at all times. They should never be left outside for extended periods without either of these things. If you’re going to be gone for more than a few minutes, it’s best to put your Alaskan Malamute in a cool, air-conditioned room.
Another thing to keep in mind is that Alaskan Malamutes are heavier than most dogs, so they tend to overheat more easily. That’s why it’s important to make sure they’re not wearing anything too heavy or tight when it’s warm out. And, as always, consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your Alaskan Malamute’s health in the heat.
Alaskan Malamutes are a great breed of dog for many people, but it’s important to remember that they have some specific needs when it comes to care and climate. With a little bit of knowledge and preparation, though, you and your Alaskan Malamute can enjoy many happy days together in the warm weather.
Do Alaskan Malamutes make good indoor dogs?
Alaskan Malamutes are bred as working dogs, which means they have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercises. This doesn’t mean, however, that they can’t be good indoor dogs. Alaskan Malamutes can do well indoors as long as their owners provide them with enough mental and physical stimulation.
One way to keep an Alaskan Malamute occupied indoors is to give them plenty of toys to play with. Kongs stuffed with treats are a great option for Alaskan Malamutes since they have to work to get the food out. Puzzle toys are also a good choice, as are chew toys. Alaskan Malamutes need to chew on things to keep their teeth healthy, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of options.
Another way to keep an Alaskan Malamute occupied is to give them a job to do. This could be something as simple as teaching them to fetch your slippers or bringing you the newspaper. Alaskan Malamutes love to please their owners and feel like they’re part of the family, so giving them a job is a great way to bond with them and make sure they’re getting the mental stimulation they need.
Alaskan Malamutes can make great indoor dogs as long as their owners take the time to provide them with enough exercise and stimulation. With a little bit of effort, you can have a happy and healthy Alaskan Malamute that’s a joy to have around the house.
#FACTS
The Alaskan Malamute is the official state dog of Alaska.
Should you shave a Malamute in the summer?
There’s no easy answer when it comes to shaving an Alaskan Malamute in the summer. On one hand, their thick coat can help protect them from the sun and heat. On the other hand, shaved dogs are more prone to sunburn and skin cancer.
If you do decide to shave your Alaskan Malamute, be sure to use sunscreen on their exposed skin and avoid shaving too close to the skin. If you’re not comfortable shaving your dog yourself, there are plenty of groomers who can do it for you.
Whatever you decide, just make sure you’re taking care of your Alaskan Malamute and keeping them cool in the summer heat!
Do Malamutes swim?
Yes, Alaskan Malamutes can swim although they do not have webbed feet like other breeds designed for swimming such as Labradors. They are powerful swimmers and can dog paddle long distances. If you live near water or plan to take your Alaskan Malamute camping or hiking near lakes, rivers, or the ocean, it’s a good idea to invest in a doggie life jacket.
Most Alaskan Malamutes enjoy swimming and playing in the water but some may be hesitant at first. If your dog is fearful of the water, take things slowly by introducing them to puddles or small bodies of water first. With patience and positive reinforcement, you’ll eventually be able to get them swimming confidently. Alaskan Malamutes are also excellent swimmers because of their double coat which keeps them warm even in cold water.
While Alaskan Malamutes are great swimmers, they are not designed for long-distance swimming like some other breeds. They will tire quickly and may need a break after swimming for a while. It’s important to keep an eye on your dog when they’re in the water and make sure they’re taking breaks as needed. Alaskan Malamutes are strong dogs but even they need to rest occasionally!
Can Alaskan Malamutes sleep outside in winter?
Alaskan Malamutes are bred for cold weather, so they can definitely sleep outside in winter! Just make sure they have a warm, dry place to sleep, and don’t leave them out in the cold for too long. If it’s too cold for you to be outside, it’s probably too cold for your Alaskan Malamute as well.
