Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is a large, strong Arctic dog with a thick, coarse double coat and a plumed tail held over the back. It is well built, with a solid body, wide head, and a proud expression. It has erect ears and small, dark, almond-shaped eyes. The coat averages one to three inches in length and comes in white, black & white, wolf grey, wolf sable (red undercoat with dark gray outer coat), or red, often with darker highlights and sometimes with a dark mask or cap. The legs and muzzle are almost always white.

Its origin is unknown, but it was first described living among the native Inuit people known as the Mahlemuts. The dogs served as hunting partners for big game (such as seals and polar bears) and hauled the heavy carcasses back home. These dogs were, of necessity, large and strong rather than fast, enabling one dog to do the work of many smaller dogs. During World War II, malamutes were once again called into service, this time to serve as freight haulers, pack animals, and search-and-rescue dogs. In 1935, the breed received AKC recognition and began a new phase as an imposing.

The Alaskan malamute is powerful, independent, strong-willed, and fun-loving. Its idea of great fun is to pull a sled or cart, but it also loves to run and roam. It is family-oriented, and as long as it is given daily exercise, it is well-mannered in the home. Without proper exercise, it can become frustrated and destructive. It is friendly and sociable toward people, but it may be aggressive toward strange dogs, pets, or livestock. Some can be domineering. It tends to dig.

The Alaskan Malamute has a dense coat and should be brushed twice a week. This breed is a massively heavy shedder. The undercoat comes out in clumps twice a year. Bathing is most unnecessary, as the coat sheds dirt readily. Dry shampoo occasionally. This dog is clean and odourless.