The Alaskan Malamute is an extremely powerful dog with a sturdy body that was meant for stamina and strength. It is considered one of the oldest dog breeds whose looks haven’t changed much since they’re original incarnation. They’re highly intelligent and need a job to keep them happy. Providing them with consistent leadership prevents them from taking over and becoming a challenge.
| Dog Breed Group: | Working dogs |
| Height: | Twenty-three to twenty-five inches at the shoulder |
| Weight: | 75 to 100 pounds |
| Life Span: | 12 to 15 years |
Seeing an Alaskan Malamute for the first time is quite impressive, especially for his large size and wolf-like facial markings. It is often believed that they are part wolves and are hired to play them on television and movies, but they’re nothing more than a domesticated dog. They possess tremendous amounts of strength, energy, intelligence, and endurance.
They were originally bred to pull heavy sleds over extremely long distances and to hunt seals and polar bears. However, they’re now chosen for companionship. They do exceedingly well at obedience competitions, backpacking, recreational sledding, and weight pulling.
Be wary, however; when the Alaskan Malamute isn’t paying you attention, he’s probably getting into mischief. They aren’t against raiding your trash bin, surfing your counters for food, or digging in your backyard when left unsupervised. They need to get something done often requires their owners to take more active roles in providing them with entertainment.
On the upside of that note, the Malamute will regard everyone that they meet as their friend. This does not make him very suitable as a watchdog. His size and imposing wolf-like face may scare away intruders, but that’s the only kind of protection he’ll provide for your home.
When it comes to exercise, the Alaskan Malamute does well with plenty of room and many opportunities to get in as much exercise as possible. Without it, they become quite bored and restless. Due to their independence, they can sometimes be regarded as stubborn or stupid, but their intelligence shines through with the right kind of training.
Conclusion
When it comes to the Alaskan Malamute, you’ll have a loving dog who can be a bit of a trickster if you’re not careful. He’s likely to jump at any opportunity to steal a snack or a treat around the house, whether it’s from your counters or your garbage cans. Take care to make these dogs proof, or spend time training him to leave these tempting treats alone.
Don’t succumb to that happy doggy smile; that’s what he wants you to do, so that he feels he has free reign of the home. But by providing with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, he’ll accept his place within the home and will do nothing more than to see you happy.
