Alaskan Malamute | The Majestic & Strong Dog Breed
The Alaskan Malamute is a large, powerful, and striking dog that has the strength, endurance, and the ability to pull sleds in harsh conditions. The Inuit people of Alaska originally bred this breed for sledding and hauling heavy loads, has been a symbol of resilience and loyalty. Not only hardworking, Alaskan Malamutes are also affectionate, friendly, and like to be around their family. If you’re thinking of adding such a majestic dog breed to your home, this article will give you a background on its history, characteristics, care requirements, and much more to help you decide if an Alaskan Malamute is right for your home.
History of the Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is descended from the Arctic region where it was developed by the native Inuit people of Alaska and in particular the Mahlemut tribe. The breed’s main purpose was to assist in hauling heavy freight and pulling sleds over long distances in the harsh Alaskan wilderness. This strength and stamina were needed for transportation and survival of life in these harsh environments.
It was also used for hunting, guarding and even as a companion animal, where it formed strong bonds with its family. They were highly prized for their independence, intelligence and loyalty. The Alaskan Malamute’s use as a sled dog was put to good use when Alaska became a hot spot for gold miners in the 19th century, and the breed began to be more widely known. Although Alaskan Malamutes were originally working dogs, they also made wonderful companions, and they are still loved for their loving nature.
Classification of the Alaskan Malamute
This is another breed that was bred for sledding and was bred to pull heavy loads across long distances in extremely cold climates. They were strong and had stamina, which made them ideal for this purpose. Though they no longer are working sled dogs for the most modern dog owner, the heritage of a hardy and powerful breed still dictates their temperament and energy level.
Alaskan Malamute By Size: The Alaskan Malamute is a large breed and males stand between 25 – 30 inches at the shoulder and females stand between 23 – 25 inches. Males tend to be slightly heavier and their weight ranges from 75 to 100 pounds. They are well suited to the demanding tasks for which they were bred because of their powerful build.
Most Popular Alaskan Malamute Traits
It has strength, endurance, and is striking in appearance.
The Alaskan Malamute is a large, powerfully built dog with a thick double coat that protects them in cold weather. Their coat is most often a combination of gray, black, sable or red with white markings on the face, chest, legs and underbelly. They have almond eyes that are brown and a friendly yet regal expression. Their majestic appearance is enhanced by their bushy tail curling over their back.
Alaskan Malamutes are very energetic and require exercise regularly. Because of their working history, they have an instinctive urge to pull, carry, and work, and should be given regular exercise. Outside they spend their time hiking and running, they require plenty of space to roam. If they do not have enough exercise, they will get bored and do something destructive.
Alaskan Malamutes are friendly, loyal and affectionate dogs. Being social and spending time with family members is what they are known to be. In some cases they can be independent, but they are very affectionate towards their owners and usually good with children and other pets. Because of their friendly nature, they do not make good guard dogs, but their protective instincts will kick in when they feel their pack is threatened.
Factors to Choose an Alaskan Malamute
There are several important factors to consider before deciding to bring an Alaskan Malamute into your home:
Alaskan Malamutes are a working breed with an abundance of exercise needs. They do best in environments in which they can participate in vigorous physical activity (and if you can give them enough opportunity for these activities, such as through hiking, running or pulling sleds if you have the appropriate equipment, all the better!). To keep healthy and happy, they need at least an hour of exercise each day. If they are not exercised enough, they can get restless and destructive.
Grooming: Alaskan Malamutes are thick double coated dogs that need to be groomed regularly to avoid matting and shed control. Spring and fall are their shedding seasons, when they will shed heavily and will need to be brushed more often. Brushing their coat regularly will help remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy. While Malamutes are not stinky dogs, they do need more attention to their coat than low shedding breeds.
Alaskan Malamutes are intelligent but also independent and stubborn. Therefore, training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Although eager to please, they are not so eager to work for rewards as some other breeds. They should be well socialised early on as they can become mouthy and unruly with people and other animals. Malamutes are headstrong, so you need to train them to be confident and calm leaders.
Alaskan Malamutes tend to be healthy dogs, but some of the conditions that may be of concern are hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). They are required to have regular vet check-ups and a healthy diet. In addition, their thick coat makes them sensitive to heat so they need lots of shade and fresh water in hot weather.
Tips for Responsible Alaskan Malamute Ownership
Give enough exercise: Alaskan Malamutes have to be exercised regularly to get rid of their excess energy. Walk them daily, run them, or hike them, and give them a chance to pull (with the proper harness and gear) or do other things that use their instincts.
Alaskan Malamutes have a thick double coat and therefore require regular grooming. Keeping their coat healthy (and to reduce shedding) you should brush them at least once or twice a week. The shedding season may require you to brush them daily.
Alaskan Malamutes are social dogs, but can be aloof with strangers so socialize early. They are also very social animals, so socialization at an early age causes them to grow up to be well adjusted and comfortable around new people, other animals or a new environment.
Monitor their health: Your Alaskan Malamute’s health needs to be monitored, especially as they grow older. Make sure you are proactive about potential health conditions that the dog may have and has the mandatory vaccinations and screenings.
Fun Facts About Alaskan Malamutes
Originally bred to pull heavy loads over long distances in Arctic conditions Alaskan Malamutes were necessary for their Inuit owners to survive.
Even though they are so big and strong, Alaskan Malamutes are usually known as ‘gentle giants’ for their sweet and loving nature.
Sometimes independent and even stubborn, but very loyal and will create close ties with their family.
Because Alaskan Malamutes are independent and have a strong instinct to do as they please, they are not great off leash dogs. It is important to keep them within a securely fenced yard or on a leash outdoors.
For Sale: Where to Find Alaskan Malamute
If you are thinking of becoming a guardian to an Alaskan Malamute, be sure to pick a trustworthy dog breeder that takes the health and personality of the dogs into account. You will be provided information regarding the puppy’s lineage, health clearances and any possible genetic conditions from reputable breeders. Additionally, you may want to consider improving breed specific rescues designed to place Alaskan Malamutes in need with forever homes.
FAQs about Alaskan Malamute
Conclusion
Alaskan Malamute is a majestic, strong, loving dog breed that excels in work and companionship. They have a powerful build, impressive appearance and are considered symbols of endurance and resilience. However, their affable nature will ensure they make a great addition to an active family as long as they are given enough exercise, grooming and training. An Alaskan Malamute will be a loyal and loving companion for years to come if you are ready to give them the care and attention that they need.