Dog Breeds-Alaskan Malamute

Other Names- nickname (mal)

Height- males (24-26 inches), females (22-24 inches)

Weight- males (80-95 pounds), females (70-85 pounds)

Life Expectancy- 12 to 15 years

Group- Working (AKC)

Recognized By- AKC(American Kennel Club), CKC(Canadian Kennel Club), FCI(Federation Cynologique Internationale), KCGB(Kennel Club of Great Britain), NKC(National Kennel Club), NZKC(New Zealand Kennel club), CKC(Continental Kennel Club), ACR(American Canine Registry), APRI(American Pet Registry Inc.), UKC(United Kennel Club).

The Alaskan Malamute came from upper western Alaska. The name comes from the tribe that raised this breed, the Mahlemut tribe, who used the dogs for hunting, sledding, and companionship.

Alaskan Malamutes are solid and strong, well porportioned dogs. They have a coarse dense outercoat, and a thick undercoat, making them able to stand extremely cold temperatures. Their coat can include colors such as various shades of grey and white, sable and white, pure white, and black and white.

Mals are loyal and affectionate with children and family members. They are generally very good with strangers and do not bark a great deal, so if looking for a guard dog, this is not a good breed to choose.They have an independant nature also and training may be a challenge for some. Special care must be taken when Malamutes are around other animals. If your malamute has not been properly trained and you have not observed their behavior around other animals then dont take chances. With early training and observation, you will know if aggression towards other animals is a problem.

Not really suited for apartment life. They are quite active and require alot of exercise, so an ideal location would be one that they could run safely and freely. They can withstand extreme cold temperatures, and do not adapt well to extremely warm environments.

In general Malamutes are a very healthy breed. Some known health problems:

• hip dysplasia
• chrondodysplasia (dwarfism)
• progressive retinal atrophy
• cataracts

Alaskan Malamutes are very heavy shedders. It is recommended that they be brushed at least twice a week. Their undercoat sheds twice a year as well, and you will probably notice big clumps of hair around at this time. Bathing is not required unless necessary. Malamutes do not have a dog odour.