Variety:
Alaskan Malamute
Country of origin:
USA
Destination:
Domestic, sled dog
Colours:
Varied colours, ranging from light grey to shades of black
Character
Dignified, reserved, affectionate, loyal, devoted, friendly, active, hardy
Height:
58-65 cm
Weight:
32-43 kg
Longevity:
10-12 years
Other names:
Alaskan Malamute
Hypoallergenic:
No
Litter size:
4-10 puppies
Alaskan Malamute – an affectionate and very active dog that needs companionship around the clock.This breed is just bursting with energy, so even long walks won’t wear out an Alaskan Malamute. Keeping these dogs is a real challenge for their owners, as they have to keep them occupied. Such a pet is only suitable for active people – an Alaskan Malamute will happily run long distances, run alongside a bicycle, pull a sled, etc. Anyone wishing to buy such a dog should think carefully about whether they will be able to devote enough time to the dog and ensure sufficient physical activity.
History of the breed
The Alaskan Malamute is an old breed of dog, named after the Eskimo tribe Melmutu. The Alaskan Malamute is thought to be related to the Siberian Husky, but is genetically distant from other dog breeds. Alaskan Malamutes have been used to transport heavy loads in harsh Arctic conditions and have saved many lives because of their independent nature. Alaskan Malamutes can sense the ice breaking up and decide to change direction, so ignoring commands can sometimes be a lifesaver. The breed has also been used to hunt bears and seals. The breed became most popular in Alaska in 1986. In 2010, the dogs were officially given the State of Alaska designation.
Alaskan Malamute: appearance
The Alaskan Malamute, depending on the sex, can be 58-65 cm tall at the withers, and the average weight of these dogs is 38 kilograms. The breed has a sturdy, muscular build, a deep chest and a straight back. The head is broad and proportionate to the dog’s body, the muzzle tapering slightly towards the nose. Only a scissor bite is allowed. The ears are of medium size in relation to the head, rather small and spaced apart. Eyes are almond-shaped, brownish (blue eyes are not allowed). Tail is stout, fluffy and shaped like a feather. The fur is thick, the outer layer coarse, the undercoat soft and dense. The fur is longer on the shoulders, neck, back and tail. The colours allowed vary from light grey to black. The underparts are usually predominantly white, and traces of this colour may also be visible on the forehead, collar and paws. Although the Alaskan Malamute is sometimes supported by the Siberian Husky, the Husky is smaller than the Malamute, and the Malamute has a longer and denser coat. Huskies may have blue or brown eyes, while Malamutes may have exclusively brown eyes. For those who do not breed the breed, it can be quite tricky to distinguish between the two breeds, but lovers of Huskies and Malamutes will agree that the differences are obvious.
Alaskan Malamute: character
Alaskan Malamutes are very intelligent and observant. They need a master with a strong character, because if they notice the slightest weakness in their master, they will take advantage of it. Alaskan Malamutes have a strong hunting instinct, so it is always advisable to have a fairly high fence (at least 2.2 m high) in your own yard. This will ensure that the pet will not run away when it sees or smells potential prey. Alaskan Malamutes tend to live in gangs and can hardly tolerate solitude. They accept all family members and get on well with children. Although the Alaskan Malamute is a friendly dog, it can dominate other dogs. Other animals will be more difficult to get along with, as cats, birds or rodents are usually seen as prey rather than potential mates. It is important to socialise your dog as early as possible to avoid behavioural problems