Things You Should Know About Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute, with its magnificent, fluffy coat, is an eye-catching breed. Not to be confused with the speedier and smaller-boned Siberian Husky, these dogs are muscular powerhouses that can do some remarkable physical feats. Malamutes were bred to drag heavy loads which shows that they are built for endurance, strong, and rugged.
Alaskan Malamutes are great family pets as long as you can keep up with their challenging exercise needs. Though they may not be for everyone, this breed’s positive traits— they are playful, affectionate, and loyal— is hard to not adore. If you think you are ready to embrace life with this fluffy puppy, here’s our useful Alaskan Malamute breed profile that can help you decide and understand what you’re getting into in advance.
Breed characteristics
Built to haul heavy loads, Alaskan Malamutes are considered the canine world’s “bodybuilders”. Along with their athletic and strong body, they have an almost feral, wolfish look yet you’d be troubled to look for a friendlier dog. Malamute’s thick, stunning double coat is not only their fashion statement but also serves as a shield from the harsh climate. A plumed, fluffy tail and unique facial markings polish the dignified look of Alaskan Malamutes.
Size
As a large dog breed, female malamutes reach a height of 23 inches, while most males will normally be 25 inches tall. Males can weigh up to 85 pounds and females, on the other hand, are only a bit smaller at 75 pounds.
Temperament
Malamutes may not be ideal if you are looking for a ferocious watchdog. When it comes to strangers, these dogs are not specifically threatening. Trusting and people-oriented, Alaskan Malamutes find it easy to make new friends and love to be around kids. With these, they make fantastic family dogs provided that you can match their exercise needs.
Energy level
As a high-energy breed, daily strenuous physical activities are a must. Malamutes are ideal for individuals with active lifestyles as they will be thrilled to accompany you in hiking, swimming, running, and doing other outdoor activities and exercises. These dogs excel in obedience and agility trials, weight-pulling competitions, competitive sledding, and more.
Training
This clever breed is the classroom’s star student for their quick learning ability. Obedience training and early socialization are important with this independent and strong-willed breed. Though be warned as there is one peeving habit that almost all Alaskan Malamute share – they love and can’t help but dig!
Health and grooming needs
Before welcoming their fluffiness into your life, prepare to equip yourself with a few grooming tools. Malamutes are recommended to be brushed daily with a metal comb and pin brush. During their shedding season which happens twice each year, you will need to include an undercoat rake in your grooming routine to get it properly done. Sadly, these dogs are prone to several health problems such as chondrodysplasia and hip dysplasia. Poly-neuropathy can possibly be inherited by a Malamute which will cause a chronic lack of coordination and weakness.
Life expectancy
Alaskan Malamutes have an average lifespan of 10 to 14 years.
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