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Introduction
Originally bred to be a freighting dog, the Alaskan Malamute is one of the physically strongest dog breeds in the world.
The Alaskan Malamute is one of the oldest Arctic sled dogs. The breed was named after a native Intuit tribe called the Mahlemuts, who settled along the shores in the upper western part of Alaska. Originally used 2000 to 3000 years ago by this tribe, the dogs were their only form of transportation and were highly valued. They pulled light traveling sleds, and hauled heavy loads (including food and supplies).The Malamute of today it still a true pack animal with the natural instinct to "lead or be led, " and works exceptionally hard in areas of service such as sledding, carting, search & rescue, and weight pulling. The Alaskan Malamute was recognized for AKC registration in 1935.
Alaskan Malamutes are still amazingly strong, with great endurance and enthusiasm. Packs of Malamutes have participated in many polar expeditions, and they adapt well in polar climates through their tenacity, sense of direction, and excellent sense of smell. Malamutes have also been made famous through the media and literature; they have appeared in the stories of Jack London and Rudyard Kipling as unforgettably loyal and brave dogs.
Alaskan Malamutes are athletic dogs who love the outdoors, but can also thrive as house pets. They are friendly yet tough, hard workers and loyal to their families.
How do you know if the Alaskan Malamute is the right dog for you? Read on to find if YOU are the right owner for the Alaskan Malamute.
The Beauty of the Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a beautifully strong, wolf-like dog with a thick, coarse double coat and a plumed tail held over the back. They are well built and muscular with a solid body, wide head, and alert, erect ears. The Malamute always carries itself with a proud expression, with dark, affectionate eyes and a moth that seems to smile.
Their feet are furry and have tough pads that can weather many different climates. Their coat is warm and the length of their hair varies from one to three inches. Alaskan Malamutes are born in shades of white, black and white, wolf gray, and a combination of these colors. Their legs and muzzle are almost always white. While always large, the Malamute varies in size, but never in strength. These are some of the toughest and strongest dogs in the world.
The Character of Alaskan Malamutes
The Alaskan Malamute is an affectionate, friendly dog; definitely not a "one man" dog. This dog is a loyal, devoted companion that is playful yet dignified. The Alaskan Malamute is like a rambunctious puppy, and personality-wise, he may never really grow up. Usually, they will mature into a dignified and mellow adult dog. However, my friend Dave says that this playfulness and, sometimes recklessness, can last their entire lifespan. His Malamute has always considered itself a lapdog, and when his owners leave the room, he has been known to jump onto strangers and lick their face. Veteran dog owners may find this cute; but sometimes strangers are put off by this. This is especially true for the Alaskan Malamute; their intimidating size may frighten somebody who doesn't know much about the breed or their nature.
Malamutes are very trusting and friendly, making them a great pet but not a great guard dog. Malamutes enjoy outdoor living as long as they still get a good amount of attention, but they prefer to live indoors with their family.
Malamutes not only crave attention, but they also demand it. If left to their own devices, a neglected Malamute can become mischievous. However, while a smaller dog's mischief causes a small amount of damage, these dogs can be quite destructive, tearing up furniture and anything else that they have access to! Malamutes can also be difficult to housebreak.
They don't require a large amount of food but they will eat whatever you put in front of them; don't let them overeat! Malamutes are fairly quiet dogs but, with their wolf-like tendencies, they do occasionally howl and dig.
The Alaskan Malamute's Ideal Environment
The Alaskan Malamute won't do well in an apartment. They are active dogs and should have at least a large yard and a high fence is a must. The fence should also be well-grounded; they like to dig and are adept at finding a way out of yards.
The Malamute's thick coat allows it to withstand extreme cold, but with his coat, he may overheat in warmer climates. In hot weather, make sure your dog has plenty of shade and water. Malamutes need a reasonable amount of exercise and love outdoor activities. They are easily trained because they love to please their owners.
The Alaskan Malamute's Companions
Malamutes so well with other animals if they are socialized to them early; some Malamutes have even been known to raise kittens as their own. However, they also have strong preying instincts and should not be left alone with unfamiliar small animals. They are also with children who are old enough and large enough to play with them. Remember that the Malamute acts like a puppy no matter what his age is; leaving him unsupervised with small children may cause an inadvertent injury.
Malamutes can be combative with other dogs and should be trained well to avoid conflict. They should also be socialized with people and other dogs early in life to avoid timidity towards people and aggression towards other dogs. Once socially comfortable, the Malamute is lively, playful and devoted.
Grooming the Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute's thick coat requires regular grooming; at least twice a week with a strong brush. They develop clumps on their tummy which fall out naturally twice a year, but they don't need bathing very often at all. Dirt sheds along with their coat, and dry shampoo can shine their coat if used occasionally. Malamutes are very clean dogs and rarely have that "wet dog" smell.
They do, however, tend to shed profusely which can wreak havoc on even relatively mild allergies.
The Alaskan Malamute's Health
The Alaskan Malamute is generally a very healthy breed, with an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years. Like many large dogs, they are slightly prone to hip dysplasia, but this affliction is not common among the breed. Some Malamutes are genetically prone to dwarfism, but this is tested for at their birth.
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