 Alaskan Malamutes were developed in the upper part of western Alaska, in the Kotzebuh Sound. Named after those who created it; the native Inuit tribe called the Mahlemuts, and is one of the oldest breeds of Artic sled dogs. Bred to pull heavy sleds over long distances and harsh terrains. Very strong dogs, and do very well in weight pull competitions. The Alaskan malamute is cousin to the Samoyed of Russia, Siberian husky and Eskimo dogs.
|
| Height: |
22 - 26 inches |
| Weight: |
70 - 95 lbs. . (some getting significantly larger) |
| Temperament: |
Energetic, outgoing, loyal, intelligent, affectionate and destructive without adequate attention. |
| Color(s): |
All with a lighter undercoat, Alaskan malamutes are "two-tone" dogs. Colors included are: light gray through intermediate shadings to black, sable, shadings of sable to red and all white. |
| Grooming: |
Need to be brushed frequently -- daily if possible. Bathing is not necessary as they shed dirt easily, and will do well being bathed a few times a year. |
| Coat(s): |
Course and very dense with a softer undercoat. Malamutes shed heavily, and will lose their undercoat twice a year, almost all at once. |
| With
Children: |
Good with older children that know how to properly treat a dog. |
| With
Pets: |
Not good with dogs of the same sex, and have a very high small prey drive. |
| Training: |
Learn quickly, and train easily. Though they are very intelligent and may become bored easily, a firm hand in training is needed at a young age or they may become destructive. |
| Exercise: |
Should be exercised daily, and will benefit from long walks. |
| Health
Issues: |
Prone to hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism and bloat. Less common are congenital dwarfism, skin problems and day blindness. |
| Housing: |
This is a breed that loves the outdoors and is very happy living outside as long as they receive daily attention. They also thrive well indoors with plenty of exercise. |
| Life
Span: |
12 - 15 years |
| Country
of Origin: |
North America - Alaska |
| Conformation
Group: |
Working Group - UKC: Northern Breeds
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| More
Resources: |
