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Alaskan Malamute
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Description
Originating from the early Spitz-type dogs, the Alaskan Malamute evolved throughout the Arctic regions of the world. They have thick coats, muscular build, short ears and a curly tail. They are physically built to endure harsh cold climates and even today remains treasured for its strength and stamina. The Alaskan Malamute is much larger in stature than its cousins the Siberian and American Husky and is regarded as a heavy freighting sled dog which is able to pull tremendous amounts of weight over long distances at a steady pace. Nowadays they are seen participating in professional sled racing all over the world.
Temperament
This extremely intelligent dog can be very stubborn, easily bored and has very strong dominant instincts and when combined with their size and strength, can lead to destructive behavior such as chewing and digging, particularly as puppies. Even though they display an appearance which is often found to be intimidating to strangers, these dogs lack watchdog instincts and should not be relied upon to guard the family home. It is recommended that they should be socialized early with other family pets as they may not tolerate strange animals and be kept under close control when outside the family home. Malamutes are however family orientated and any signs of aggression towards humans must not be tolerated. As a general rule the Alaskan Malamute is a quiet dog and usually doesn’t bark, however if bored may howl quite loudly and incessantly.
Appearance
Height: 56-66cm (22-26in)
Weight:
32-43kg (70-95lb)
Group: Working Dogs
The largest of the Arctic breeds, females are significantly smaller than males. They are a long haired breed with a coarse coat of sufficient length to protect a woolly undercoat and it is this dense undercoat which acts as insulation against heat and cold whilst the guard coat protects from dampness and dirt. Their distinct light brown eyes are surrounded by a dark eye-rim and pale fur. The most common colour is grey and white or black and white with a white or grey muzzle, face, throat and chest.
Grooming
They are able to adjust to most climates and should never be clipped. During moulting season, the dog should be groomed once daily otherwise they only require grooming on a weekly basis.
Life Expectancy
11-14 years
Health
The Alaskan Malamute has three major health factors relating to its breed. Day blindness, also heritable and characterized by an inability to see in bright light although able to see in decreased illumination. Hip dysplasia, a heritable disease which affects the joints of the hips, due to the size of the breed and poor breeding practices. Nutritional disorders because Alaskan Malamutes are a rapidly growing breed, a well balanced diet must be provided as a young puppy as poor nutrition will lead to bone disorders that will remain for the duration of the dog's life.
Suitability
Because of their independent nature, intelligence and strong dominant instincts, obedience training is essential. Training can be quite challenging and should be commenced at a very young age. They do not fully mature until 18 months of age and unless they are correctly educated they may become a large, unmanageable and stubborn adult and because of this there are many reported instances of abandonment, due likely to their dominant nature and lack of training. Not recommended for first time dog owners as they are a working dog which require a lot of exercise. Beware of over pampering this dog as a puppy as this will only lead to future behavioural problems and many owners have parted with them because they have tried to assert themselves over the dog far too late in its upbringing.
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