Alaskan Malamute
Description
A large breed dog that was bred mainly for pulling freight sleds. The Alaskan Malamute averages around 23 to 26 in. in height at the shoulder, and the average weight is 75-85 pounds, but it’s not unheard of to have one larger or smaller than the dog breeds average. They have a thick coat of fur. The coarse outer coat (guard hair) and the woolly undercoat, which will keep them well insulated in harsh climates, and comes in a large variety of colors (red, white, sable, gray, black). Beautiful almond shaped eyes in a range from light to dark and hazel to honey in color (Blue eyes are pretty but will disqualify your dog for show). The Alaskan Malamute stands over his shoulders and is a well built, compact dog (height to length ratio is slightly longer than tall), with large bone structure. An Alaskan Malamutes tail curls up over the back and is very full. This tail serves a purpose by helping to keep the dogs nose and face protected from freezing temperatures when they sleep outdoors in the snow. The Alaskan Malamute has not changed much over the years, and is truly a magnificent dog.
Temperament
Genetically this dog is imprinted with all the skills to survive outdoors in all kinds of weather with humans. A owner that cannot accept an independent, free thinking dog, that may not always mind should perhaps choose a different dog breed. Wolves and Malamutes were once cross bred, and today that genetic link gives the Malamute the strong urge to hunt, so smaller animals in the home may be a problem if not properly introduced and monitored. Malamutes get along well with their humans, and make good house pets being sure footed in and around children and furniture. Not big on barking, but do enjoy “talking” Malamutes make a sound that resembles Chewbaccas vocalization from Star Wars. When a Malamute howls it resembles that of a Wolf.
Health
Possible issues
- Hip Dysplasia
- Hereditary Cataracts
- Inherited Polyneuropathy
- Chondrodysplasia
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Recent DNA testing has shown that the Malamute is one of the oldest breeds of dogs, and genetically distinct from other dog breeds.
