The Alaskan Malamute - Power and Beauty

Strikingly beautiful and incredibly powerful, the Malamute is an impressive creature. Given that they were originally bred by the Innuit to haul sleds through extreme Arctic conditions, it is not surprising that they retain certain traits to this day: tenacity, endurance, strong character to mention only a few.

Experienced owners of Malamutes will often say that they would choose no other breed, but for first time owners, a Malamute can be more than a handful.

Unlike some of the other larger breeds which are content to be couch potatoes, Mals need a lot of exercise. As a youngster expect your Malamute puppy to be ricocheting off the walls with energy. A tired puppy is a good puppy but you should not overstress growing bones with too much physical strain (especially jumping) so how to burn off some off that excess? Lots and lots of games.

As an intelligent dog, Mals need both mental and physical stimulation. Playing with your pup, lots of early training exercises and having fun will both help you bond with the pup and tire the little blighter out.

Though very people friendly Malamutes need a lot of socialization with other dogs. In general they are good with kids but again, introducing children to the pup under controlled circumstances and from an early age is the key.

This is a dog which will challenge you for alpha status so be prepared for lots of NILIF training and read Becoming Alpha.

Despite their long coats, Malamutes do not shed exessively most of the time but they will 'blow' their coat twice a year. If you are considering a Malamute for your family be prepared for snowstorms of undercoat every six months.

Malamutes are sensitive to diet. They are enthusiastic about food but eat less than you would expect them too for their size. Too rich a diet can cause 'hot spots', irritating patches of red skin and loose hair.

Genetically Malamutes can be prone to hip dysplasia and eye problems though a reputable breeder will have undertaken the necessary screening to ensure that the line your pup comes from is free of these disorders.

If you feel that an Alaskan malamute might be the perfect addition to your pack, you might want to investigate the various Malamute Rescue websites for your area. If there is no appropriate link for you here just Google for it, e.g. Alaskan Malamute Rescue UK.

US:

Malamute Rescue

The Alaskan Malamute - Power and Beauty

US:

Animal Rescue