Alaskan Malamutes

Appearance:

Body: Well-muscled with a deep chest and straight back.

Coat: A very dense, winterized double coat. The outer coat is coarse fur while the undercoat is a woolly down.

Color: Various shades of gray and white, sable and white, black and white, red and white or pure white.

Ears: Small, wide-set and furry which helps to keep their body heat in.

Eyes: Dark and almond-Shaped.

Face: The face will be all white or will be distinguished by a bar or mask.

Feet: Large and tight with well-cushioned pads and arched toes.

Head: A large head with a broad skull with a black nose and powerful jaws.

Legs: Well-boned forelegs, muscular hind legs.

Neck: Short and straight.

Size:
Weight 75 - 95 pounds (34 - 43kg)
Height 23 - 28 inches (58 - 71cm)

Females Mals are considerably smaller than males. Male Malamutes have been known to weigh as much from 120 to 140 pounds.

Tail: Curled up over the back. Has a dense coat of fur.

Behavior

Recommended for experienced dog handlers.

The Alaskan Malamute is a affectionate, friendly dog that loves to be around people. They are best suited for family life and not as a one-man dog.

The Mal is a avid digger and a very playful dog. They love to play with people and with other dogs that they know. Because of this they are known to be a great family dog.

If you are considering a Malamute, be aware that they can be difficult to handle. Because they are independently minded, they won't always be willing to accept commands.

They are recommended for experienced dog handlers who are skilled at training. A master who is able to devote a great deal of time to training and exercising the Mal is best suited for this breed of dog.

Breed Type

AKC Group: Working Group

The Alaskan Malamute is a northern dog that was originally bred for pulling sleds and for hunting.

Care and Grooming

Exercise: This is an outdoor dog that needs and loves daily exercise.

Grooming: Because of their dense coat they should be brushed several times weekly.

Health

Life Expectancy: 12 Years

Possible Problems:

Dwarfism - Achondroplasia or Chondrodystropia
Cataract and Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Chondro Dysplasia - a disordered growth disease
Hip Dysplasia Polyneuropathy - inherited disorder of the nerves

For further information go to:
Alaskan Malamute Club of America

Country of Origin

United States

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