Alaskan
Malamutes
 Description:
Native to the northern regions of the Western
hemisphere, this member of the Spitz family was
originally bred by a tribe of Inuits, the Mahlemuts.
The Malamutes were all-purpose dogs and performed
tasks such as hauling sleds in winter, carrying
packs of freight in summer, guarding herds of
cariboo and hunting polar bear, moose or wolves.
In camp, the dogs were loyal family pets that
watched over and kept children warm during long
winter nights. Ideally suited to ice and cold
weather, this breed has also adapted well to more
temperate climates. Malamutes need plenty of space
and daily exercise.
Height:
25" (63.5cm) for dogs, 23" (58.4cm)
for bitches
Weight:
85 lbs (37.9 kg) for dogs, 75 lbs (33.5 kg) for
bitches
Coat Type:
A double-coat consisting of a thick, coarse, short
to medium-length guard coat and a woolly, dense
undercoat. Colors range from wolf-gray to black
with white on the feet and legs, underbelly and
face. Grooming is needed on a regular basis; be
prepared for plenty of fur during shedding season.
Temperament:
This is an affectionate, loving and loyal
family dog, not suited to guard work. Confident
and strong-willed, they tend to be very dominant
and require early obedience training. They are
energetic, playful and friendly, but, as with
all large breeds, require supervision at play
with small kids.
Health Problems:
Hip dysplasia, eye cataracts; as well, epilepsy
is highly suspected to have a genetic component
in this breed.
Special Interest: Try sledding,
backpacking or weight-pulling with your Malamute.
Classifications:
AKC: Group 3 - Working Dogs
CKC: Group 3 - Working Dogs
KC: Non-Sporting - Working Group
FCI: Group 5
ANKC: Group 6 - Utility
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