Human orientation
Contact with the family can be moderate: the dog is friendly, but independent. The actual behavior depends on the socialization and experience of the particular dog.
THE PAW CATALOG
Alaskan Malamute
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History of the Alaskan Malamute breed
Origin: United States of America
The Malamute was bred in Alaska, probably by the Malemute Inupiaq people of the Norton Sound area, to carry heavy loads in conjunction with at least four dogs. During the gold rush of 1896, sled dogs were often crossed with imported breeds. The breed was recognized in 1935, and the Second World War almost destroyed it: in 1947, there were about thirty registered dogs left. Malamutes took part in Björd's expedition to the South Pole. Since 2010, it has been the official dog of the state of Alaska.
The Alaskan Malamute is a powerful northern sled dog, created for carrying heavy loads, not for fast races. Requires hardy training, reliable fencing and caution in the summer heat. This is a breed for experienced owners who are ready for a strong character and a large amount of wool.
SizeBig
OriginUnited States of America
Life is nearby
Malamute needs a lot of space and daily movement, so an apartment is not desirable for him. He does not like heat, so in the summer shade, water and coolness are needed. The fence should be high and reliable: the dog knows how to dig and run away. It works slowly, but perseveringly, so it shows itself best in a sled or on hikes.
Walks
An adult healthy Malamute needs a long daily activity: long walks, walking in a harness, hikes or traction exercises. In summer, the load is transferred to cooler hours. For puppies and elderly dogs, it is adjusted with a veterinarian.
Training
The dog is intelligent, but independent and does not seek to please, so training requires patience and constant rules. Short, varied sessions with a valuable reward work better than monotonous repetition. Key skills are calling, walking off leash and being calm in the presence of other dogs.
Care
The double coat, with its thick woolly undercoat, needs brushing about twice a week, and daily during shedding season. They bathe only when necessary. Teeth, claws, ears, skin are regularly examined and weight is monitored.
Children
This is a large and strong dog, so contact with small children must be under the supervision of an adult. The rules of calm behavior are explained to the child, not to take food and not to disturb rest, and the dog is given its own place.
Other animals
Acquaintance with other dogs and animals is carried out gradually. Hunting motivation and strength make you be careful with small animals, and you need a leash when walking in public places.
Peculiarities of the breed
Estimates help compare breeds. For zooaggression, 5/5 means less tendency to aggression towards dogs. The behavior and health of a particular dog depend on many factors.
Training
A high score means that the breed is able to quickly master commands, but independence can be a hindrance. Short sessions with a reward without coercion work.
Zooaggression
An average score means that contact with other dogs and pets requires an individual assessment. Strength and hunting motivation require control and early socialization is important.
Health and reproductive risks
In the British cohort, the median lifespan of the breed was 11.3 years. Among the described breed risks: dysplasia of the hip joints, dysplasia of the elbow joints, dysfunction of the thyroid gland. The examination of the parents is confirmed with the veterinarian.
Ease of care
The coat is combed approximately twice a week, and during the seasonal molt daily. The volume of wool, a lot of movement and the need for cooling in the summer make grooming time-consuming.
Health
Hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is one of the most frequently described risks of the breed. Parents are examined by X-ray, and the need for examinations is determined by a veterinarian.
Dysplasia of elbow joints
Elbow dysplasia is also mentioned as a possible risk. It can be manifested by lameness at a young age and is detected by X-ray.
Dysfunction of the thyroid gland
Disorders of the thyroid gland, in particular hypothyroidism, are described in this breed. Signs: weight gain, lethargy, coat changes. Diagnosis is established by tests.
Von Willebrand's disease
Von Willebrand disease, a blood clotting disorder, is mentioned as a possible risk. Genetic tests are available, so ask the breeder for the results of both parents.
Photo of the breed
