Dog breed · Working
Alaskan Malamute
A heavy freighting sled dog built for hauling, not speed; dignified, sociable and very strong.
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Working
- Origin
- Alaska, United States
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 34–45 kg (75–100 lb)
- Height
- 58–64 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–14 years
- Coat
- Thick, coarse double coat
- Temperament
- PowerfulIndependentAffectionateStrong-willed
History
Bred by the Mahlemiut people of Alaska for moving heavy loads across the Arctic.
Appearance
Substantial and wolf-like, in grey, black, red or sable with white markings.
Exercise and activity
Two hours daily of walking, hiking or carting in cool conditions.
Care and grooming
Brush two or three times weekly and daily during moult; ensure shade and cool floors in warm weather.
Health considerations
- Hip dysplasia
- Chondrodysplasia
- Inherited polyneuropathy
- Hypothyroidism
- Zinc-responsive dermatosis
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Alaskan Malamute
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: Two hours daily of walking, hiking or carting in cool conditions. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Hip dysplasia, Chondrodysplasia, Inherited polyneuropathy, Hypothyroidism, Zinc-responsive dermatosis), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- Dogs Trust — dog care, behaviour and welfare advice