Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is known for its confident, friendly, and energetic personality. They are affectionate and loyal companions, making them ideal for active families. 

Country of Origin: United States

Historically, these dogs were bred for heavy hauling and endurance, reflecting their powerful build and thick coat.

In terms of temperament, they are highly social and playful but can exhibit an independent streak. This requires consistent training and socialization from a young age. Malamutes are intelligent and can be problem-solvers; however, their independence may lead to challenges in training, necessitating patience and positive reinforcement.

Nutritionally, Alaskan Malamutes require high-quality, nutrient-dense food to support their energy levels and muscular build. Regular grooming is also essential due to their heavy shedding and thick coats. 

Exercise is critical for this breed; they need daily physical activity and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Malamutes are best suited for cooler climates and require ample outdoor space, making them less ideal for apartment living without sufficient exercise.

Health and common issues

As with many breeds, Alaskan Malamute dogs can suffer from hereditary eye disorders, and hip dysplasia (a condition that can lead to mobility problems). Eye testing and hip scoring of dogs prior to breeding is therefore important.

Space requirements

A big house and well-fenced garden are important for an Alaskan Malamute - as is daily access to places to run. They are definitely not city dogs - and as they enjoy howling, they are best suited to living away from close neighbours.

Training alaskan malamutes

As this is a large dog, they need to learn all the usual basic manners that a training class will give them. The Alaskan Malamute never forgets that they are bred to pull sledges however - and so they need to learn to walk on a lead and harness for the occasions when they need to be under close control. Traditional dog walks are of little interest to a Malamute - they need to run and so training in sports like canicross can give them an appropriate outlet for their hard-wired behaviours. It goes without saying that they need extremely active owners who want a dog they can run with. While a good recall is extremely important and should be taught and practised, it shouldn’t be relied upon in the great outdoors when squirrels or just the need to run can make them deaf to anything else. If they are to live with other animals, early socialisation is vital and even then, care must be taken.

Best family dog breeds

Alaskan Malamutes can happily live with children as long as they are well socialised with them from an early age but as with any large dog, care should be taken. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

Did you know?

• Along with the lighter Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes were involved in The Serum Run of 1925 when 150 sled dogs transported diptheria antitoxin across Alaska coering 674 miles in just over 5 days, saving the small town of Nome and the surrounding communities from an epidemic.
• In World War 1, 450 Alaskan Malamutes were sent to France to deliver supplies to French army troops in mountain outposts.
• Previously they were used to deliver mail and transport supplies for the early settlers in Alaska.
• Alaskan Malamute’s were used in the Gold Rush to haul food and supplies over mountain passes.
• This breed was used to sniff for mines, carry weapons and act as search and rescue dogs in World War II.