Alaskan Malamutes: What to Expect

Information on Alaskan Malamute dogs

The Alaskan Malamute is a large breed of domestic dog with a thick coat and muscular build. Their origins are believed to lay in the indigenous population of Alaska, and they have been used as a sled dog for centuries. They have a thick plumed tail, dense coat, pointed ears, small eyes and a strong, flat muzzle. They stand at a height of 21-25 inches and can weigh up to 75 pounds. These dogs come in a variety of colors, such as wolf-gray, black and white, red and white, and sable and white. In their creation, native Alaskans probably used a variety of indigenous breeds, as well as some Siberian Huskies, Samoyeds, and perhaps even some Labrador Retrievers. However, what truly makes them special is their innate strength and remarkable versatility, which makes them perfect for a variety of roles, from cart-pulling to rescue work. They also excel as athletes due to their speed, strength and endurance.

What makes Alaskan Malamutes special?

The Alaskan Malamute is an intelligent, active, and loving breed of Arctic working dog with a fun-loving and loyal nature. With their friendly attitude and gentle demeanor, Alaskan Malamutes can get along great with children and other pets if socialized from an early age. Training must begin early in order to ensure their obedience and teach them proper manners. It is important to keep an Alaskan Malamute entertained and exercised on a regular basis to prevent pent up energy and potential destructive behaviors. They can be quite loyal and form strong ties with their owners from an early age so getting them as puppies is particularly beneficial. Alaskan Malamutes can live indoor or outdoors, though need to be exercised and entertained at least 30 minutes a day with activities such as daily walks, runs, and playtime. Nonetheless, the breed has a tendency to bark, so the owners should know in advance if they would like a more quiet household or not. Though some work and living situations can get particularly hectic for the Alaskan Malamute, with the right balance of exercise, training, and attention, these friendly and gentle dogs can make a great addition to any home.

How to care for your Alaskan Malamute?

The Alaskan Malamute is a breed of large, thick-coated, sled dog that is highly active and requires a healthy, well-balanced diet with essential nutrients. They should be fed a high-quality, nutritionally complete diet that contains a mix of proteins, fats, grains, vegetables, and vitamins. Owners should be aware that Alaskan Malamutes are prone to weight gain and overfeeding should be avoided. To best take care of your Alaskan Malamute you should also ensure regular physical exercise and access to clean water at all times. 

Responsible ownership should be promoted and potential pet adopters should be adequately informed about the breed, its needs, and the necessary commitments not related to diet alone. Way Canina is an excellent resource to learn more about the needs of the Alaskan Malamute, as well as the different types of food that are okay for their dog to eat and those that should be avoided. 

Given the size and active lifestyle of the Alaskan Malamute, a healthy diet and proper physical exercise are essential components to their wellbeing. Responsible ownership requires adequate knowledge and understanding of the breed and its particular requirements, which makes Way Canina a valuable resource to help ensure a happy, healthy life for your beloved pet.

Common health issues affecting Alaskan Malamutes

Common health issues for Alaskan Malamutes are hip and elbow dysplasia, eye issues, autoimmune disease, and various types of cancer. Genetic predispositions should also be taken into consideration when choosing this breed. Regular veterinarian check-ups, vaccinations, preventive care, and a balanced diet are all important for this breed to maintain a healthy and long life.

How long do Alaskan Malamutes live?

The Alaskan Malamute is a large and strong breed of dog that can live for 12-15 years. It is important to have regular veterinary check-ups and to ensure the dog is properly vaccinated. Preventive care such as flea and heartworm medications are also important for this breed. Grooming needs should include regular brushing, bathing, and ear cleaning. A balanced diet, along with portion control and regular exercise, is important to prevent obesity.

Thinking about getting a friendly Alaskan Malamute?

Are you thinking about getting an Alaskan Malamute? Owning a dog is a rewarding experience, but it comes with many responsibilities. Before making your final decision, consider the needs of this breed, related pros and cons, as well as your own lifestyle and available resources. We recommend that you check out our blog posts and articles on Way Canina, which compare different dog breeds around the world and provide information on their lifestyle and wellbeing.

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