Origin
United States
Lifespan
10–14 years
Weight
34–39 kg
Height
56–66 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Light Grey and White · Black and White · Red and White · Sable and White
Alaskan Malamute
About This Breed
The Alaskan Malamute is a large breed of dog that was originally bred for their strength and endurance to haul heavy freight as a sled dog. They are similar to other arctic, husky, and spitz breeds. Malamutes are powerful, independent, and intelligent dogs with great endurance. They are affectionate, playful, and devoted to their families. However, they can be challenging to train due to their stubborn nature and strong will. They require significant daily exercise.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Alaskan Malamute
Origin
| Origin | United States |
| Group | Working |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 34–39 kg |
| Lifespan | 10–14 years |
| Height | 56–66 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Light Grey and White · Black and White · Red and White · Sable and White |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Affectionate · Playful · Devoted · Gentle · Friendly |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
Can shed a lot. Regular brushing can help manage loose hair.
Living together
A familiar routine can help it settle in.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Introduce other pets gradually and watch how each animal responds.
Training and activities
Practice in short sessions and reward the behavior you want.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
Alaskan Malamutes have a storied history of helping humans complete some of the world’s hardest jobs. Alaskan Malamutes first came to be alongside the native Mahlemut tribe in Alaska, according to the Alaskan Malamute Club of Belgium (AMCB), when the dogs were relied on to “hunt the seals, scare polar bears and to pull heavy loads.” Alaskan Malamutes were prized during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1896, according to The Alaskan Malamute Assistance League, because of their hardworking nature and reliability to haul sleds.
Care Guide
Alaskan Malamutes are dedicated companions that require quite a bit of attention. They need lots of exercise to be happy—remember, their ancestors pulled sleds for generations! And while most pet parents can’t provide a sled, a daily run with their human or alongside a bike helps keep these energetic dogs satisfied. Alaskan Malamutes are known to be spunky and talk back with “awoos” that can make you feel like you’re arguing with a child. They are brilliant dogs that are unafraid to use their wile to get what they want—which can range from a snack on top of the counter to escaping the yard for an unsupervised stroll around the neighborhood. Along with ample attention and exercise, Alaskan Malamutes need near-constant brushing and care for their robust coats.