Alaskan Malamute

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment10–14 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Hypothyroidism · Bloat (GDV)

The Alaskan Malamute is the powerful heavy-freight hauler of the Arctic — bigger, stronger and woollier than its Husky cousin — and it brings that strength, stamina and independence to family life. Friendly and affectionate but strong-willed and often stubborn, it needs an experienced owner who provides consistent, patient, positive training and, above all, a great deal of daily exercise; a bored, under-exercised Malamute digs craters, howls conversations and becomes destructive. It has a strong prey drive and pulling instinct (great for sledding and carting, a challenge on an ordinary leash), and it is best kept away from small pets and secured behind a good fence. The thick double coat sheds enormously and 'blows' seasonally, needing frequent brushing, and the breed strongly prefers cool climates over heat. Health-wise, buy from a breeder who screens hips and eyes, and be aware of hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, cataracts, bloat (feed measured meals and rest after eating) and a breed-specific inherited neuropathy and a polyneuropathy. Give a Malamute serious exercise, secure containment, patient training and a cool home, and it will be a magnificent, affectionate working companion for ten to fourteen years.

• How much exercise does a Alaskan Malamute need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Alaskan Malamute need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Alaskan Malamute suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a Alaskan Malamute a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Alaskan Malamute live?

  10–14 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Alaskan Malamute?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Hypothyroidism, Bloat (GDV). These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

Be the first to join this community!