Average Size of Male: Height: 25 to 28 inches Weight: 85 to 125 pounds
Suggested tests: Hip, Eye, ChD clear rating
Major concerns: Canine Hip Dysplasia, cataracts, chondrodysplasia (ChD)
Occasionally seen: Gastric torsion
LifeSpan: 10 – 12 years
Minor concerns: Renal cortical hypoplasia
Average Size of Female: Height: 23 to 26 inches Weight: 75 pounds
Brief History on Alaskan Malamute Origin
The Alaskan malamute was originally recorded living amongst the Inuit native people, otherwise known as the “Mahlemuts”, who lived along the northwestern coast of Alaska. These dogs were used as hunting partners for big game (i.e., polar bears and/or seals), and were also very capable of hauling heavy carcasses back home across great distances in bitter conditions. These dogs evolved to be strong and resilient as opposed to being fast, which enabled one single dog to do the work of many other smaller dogs. When explorers first traveled to the region, they were impressed not only by the dogs’ hardiness in the harsh conditions, but also by the reciprocal affection shared by the animals as well as their owners. Later down the line, gold was discovered in the area and many outsiders flocked to Alaska to join in. Gold miners began staging weight-pulling contests and races among their dogs for entertainment. Then the native breeds were bred with each other and with those brought by settlers, to create a quicker racing dog and to increase the pool of canines that were available to assist with the gold rush. A pure malamute became a rarity at that point in time. The 1920’s saw a cooperative effort by some to purify the malamute breed once again. By their attempt to return it to it’s original qualities and characteristics, it ultimately resulted in the Alaskan malamute we all are familiar with today. Although humans have often utilized the tremendous strength and stamina of the malamute over the years, the breed has also become known as a favorite of dog show enthusiasts and also as a family friend and companion.
Alaskan Malamute Breed Appearance
The Alaskan malamute is large in stature and powerful, often growing to be over 100 pounds once it reaches adulthood. It is usually heavy-boned, designed for strength and endurance. Like other spitz breeds that are double-coated such as Akitas and Chows, the Alaskan malamute was ideally designed to be totally capable of living in cold and wet climates. Although their eyes have a “wolf-like” appearance, their expression is soft and inviting nonetheless. Alaskan malamutes are typically white with black, red or gray shadings. This breed also has an off-white undercoat.
Fact: Blue-eyed malamutes are automatically disqualified for show competition.
Alaskan Malamute Breed Temperament
The Alaskan Malamute is a well mannered and friendly breed, that is usually nicely behaved with both children and strangers. This breed of dog tends to be very self-assured and strong-willed, but also fun-loving, playful and loyal. It may be aggressive toward other strange dogs, pets or livestock due to their strong natural prey drive. Although this dog thrives when it is put to work pulling a load or given a large area of space to explore, do not forget that it also strives for the companionship and love of a family. The malamute will usually do very well in a home where there is a balance between indoor time and outdoor adventure. Without ample exercise, it can become frustrated and destructive. Two noted behaviors can be digging holes, or howling.
Alaskan Malamute Breed Maintenance
The Alaskan malamute was created to be able to roam vast distances in extremely cold and harsh environments. Anyone who is considering a malamute as a pet, must understand that it is a common characteristic of this breed to display a lot of energy and want to be put to work. Alaskan malamutes also require lots of space to be comfortable and happy. A good sized home with a large, fenced, & partially shaded yard is truly essential for this dog breed. With that being said, an apartment really is not the best environment for this breed. While a malamute could live outside in a colder climate, it is essential to their health and also is in their best interest to be kept inside a climate controlled home during the warmer months of the year. Please do remember to protect them from overheating during these months. Also, around that time of year this breed is prone to very heavy shedding in order to help them cool down, and requires brushing at least twice every week. Early obedience and behavioral training, within the first three to five months, is ideal to manage their stubborn nature.
via Whisker Therapy