The Alaskan Malamute is the heavy freight locomotive of the Arctic. He is not a race car like the Siberian Husky; he is a tank. Bred to haul heavy sleds over long distances in brutal conditions, he is a dog of immense strength and endurance.

But beneath that wolf-like exterior and formidable size lies a playful, affectionate, and surprisingly gentle companion. Malamutes are “pack animals” in the truest sense. They consider their human family their pack and want to be included in everything. They will “woo-woo” (talk) to you when you come home, curl up on your feet (or lap, if allowed), and generally act like 85-pound puppies well into their golden years.

History and Origin: The Mahlemut Dog

The Alaskan Malamute is one of the oldest Arctic sled dogs. He is named after the Mahlemut tribe of the Inupiat people who lived along the Kotzebue Sound in northwestern Alaska. These dogs were vital to the survival of the people. They hauled heavy sleds loaded with food and supplies, hunted seals and polar bears, and even protected the camp from predators.

The Malamute was never bred for speed; he was bred for strength and stamina. When the Gold Rush hit Alaska in 1896, the demand for sled dogs skyrocketed. Many native breeds were crossed with imported dogs, but the Malamute remained relatively pure because the Mahlemut tribe was isolated. During World War II, Malamutes served as search and rescue dogs in the Arctic. Sadly, the breed nearly went extinct after the war, but dedicated breeders revived it. Today, the Malamute is the official state dog of Alaska.

Physical Characteristics

The Malamute is a substantial dog with heavy bone. He stands well over the pads, giving an impression of great strength.

• Height: Males 25 inches (64 cm); Females 23 inches (58 cm).
• Weight: Males 85 pounds (39 kg); Females 75 pounds (34 kg). However, “giant” lines can exceed 100 pounds.

Distinctive Features

• Coat: A thick, coarse double coat. The undercoat is dense and woolly; the guard hairs are long and stand off the body.
• Colors: Range from light gray to black, sable, and red. The only solid color allowed is white.
• Face: The face markings are distinct. Some have a “cap” (dark head) and a white face; others have a “mask.”
• Eyes: Brown. Blue eyes are a disqualification in the show ring (unlike Huskies).
• Tail: A plume that waves over the back like a feather. It is not curled tight like an Akita.
• Ears: Triangular and erect when alert.

Temperament and Personality: The Friendly Giant

Malamutes are notoriously friendly. They are terrible watchdogs because they are more likely to lick a burglar than bite him.

The Pack Animal

They need companionship. They do not do well as backyard dogs. If isolated, they will howl, dig, and destroy your property. They need to be with their people.

The Dominant Dog

While friendly with humans, Malamutes can be dominant with other dogs, especially of the same sex. Early socialization is critical. They also have a very high prey drive and may chase cats or small animals.

The Independent Thinker

Malamutes are smart but stubborn. They were bred to make life-or-death decisions on the ice (like refusing to cross thin ice). They will not obey a command blindly. You must earn their respect.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise

This is a working dog. He needs a job.

• Daily: A long walk or hike is the minimum.
• Sledding: If you live in a snowy climate, skijoring or sledding is ideal.
• Backpacking: In the summer, have him carry a backpack on hikes. He loves to work.
• Weight Pulling: A popular sport for Malamutes. They can pull thousands of pounds.

Training

Training a Malamute requires patience and a sense of humor.

• Positive Reinforcement: Use treats. They are very food motivated.
• Consistency: If you let him on the couch once, he will be on the couch forever.
• Recall: Never trust a Malamute off-leash. If he sees a squirrel, he is gone. And he will not come back until he is ready.

Health and Lifespan

Malamutes are generally healthy, living 10 to 14 years.

• Hip Dysplasia: Common in large breeds.
• Chondrodysplasia: A genetic disorder causing dwarfism (“Malamute Dwarfism”).
• Polyneuropathy: A neurological condition affecting the nerves.
• Bloat (GDV): A life-threatening twisting of the stomach.
• Day Blindness (Hemeralopia): Clumsiness in bright light.
• Zinc Responsive Dermatosis: Some Northern breeds have trouble absorbing zinc, leading to skin issues.

Grooming and Care

The Malamute sheds. A lot.

• Brushing: Daily brushing is recommended to keep the coat healthy and reduce shedding.
• Blowing Coat: Twice a year, they shed their entire undercoat. You will be able to build a second dog out of the fur.
• Bathing: Every few months.
• Heat Sensitivity: Malamutes overheat easily. Keep them cool in the summer. Never shave a double coat (unless medically necessary).

Nutrition

Malamutes are easy keepers. They evolved to survive on very little food in harsh conditions.

• Obesity: They gain weight easily. Measure food carefully.
• Bloat: Feed two smaller meals a day and avoid exercise right after eating.

Is an Alaskan Malamute Right for You?

The Malamute is a magnificent, loving, and challenging breed.

Yes, if:

• You are an active person who loves the outdoors.
• You want a friendly, affectionate dog that is part of the family.
• You have a securely fenced yard (they are escape artists).
• You don’t mind dog hair on everything you own.

No, if:

• You want a pristine house.
• You want a guard dog.
• You want a dog that obeys instantly.
• You live in a very hot climate without air conditioning.

For the right owner, the Alaskan Malamute is a loyal, powerful, and deeply affectionate friend who will happily pull you through life’s storms.