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Alaskan Malamute Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Alaskan Malamute so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Sled Dogs
Popularity Rank59
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Alaskan Malamute dog profile picture
OriginUnited States flagUnited States
Other Names
What other names does the Alaskan Malamute have?
MallyMal
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Photo Gallery of the Alaskan Malamute Breed

Alaskan Malamute Size and Weight

Size
Is an Alaskan Malamute small, medium or large dog?

How big do Alaskan Malamute get?

What is the average size of an Alaskan Malamute?

Large
Weight
How much does the Alaskan Malamute weigh? How much should an Alaskan Malamute weight? What is the normal weight of an Alaskan Malamute? How much does a full-grown Alaskan Malamute weight?
Male: 80 - 95 pounds (36 - 43 kg), Female: 70 - 85 pounds (32 - 38 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of an Alaskan Malamute?
Male: 80 - 95 pounds (36 - 43 kg), Female: 70 - 85 pounds (32 - 38 kg)
Height
How tall is the Alaskan Malamute? Alaskan Malamute height:
Male: 24 - 26 inches (61 - 66 cm), Female: 22 - 24 inches (56 - 61 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of an Alaskan Malamute?
Male: 24 - 26 inches (61 - 66 cm), Female: 22 - 24 inches (56 - 61 cm)

Alaskan Malamute Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Alaskan Malamute puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of an Alaskan Malamute in the United States? How much money is an Alaskan Malamute?

Where to buy an Alaskan Malamute with a good pedigree?

$1200-$1500
If you choose to purchase the Alaskan Malamute, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Alaskan Malamute for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Alaskan Malamute gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Alaskan Malamute? How many Alaskan Malamute are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Alaskan Malamute is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Alaskan Malamute Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Alaskan Malamute? Is the Alaskan Malamute breed dumb or smart?
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Alaskan Malamute ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Alaskan Malamute dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train an Alaskan Malamute?
Alaskan Malamute dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Alaskan Malamute good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Alaskan Malamute dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Alaskan Malamute dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Alaskan Malamute dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Alaskan Malamute dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Alaskan Malamute can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Alaskan Malamute will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Alaskan Malamute Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Alaskan Malamute have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
PlayfulDignifiedFriendlyAffectionateLoyalDevoted
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Alaskan Malamute sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Alaskan Malamute dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is an Alaskan Malamute a good family dog?
Average: Alaskan Malamute dogs are average dogs regarding their affection level. Some breeds are forthcoming and friendly, while others are independent and don't bond too closely with their owners.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Mally need? Alaskan Malamute social needs:
Alaskan Malamute dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Alaskan Malamute to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Alaskan Malamute roam?
Alaskan Malamute dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command. This breed is also able to cause damage to your fence.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Alaskan Malamute have high prey drive?
Alaskan Malamute dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Alaskan Malamute dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Alaskan Malamute Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Alaskan Malamute is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Alaskan Malamute dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Mally bark?
Low to Average: The Alaskan Malamute rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Alaskan Malamute good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have an Alaskan Malamute in an apartment?
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Alaskan Malamute breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Alaskan Malamute indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Alaskan Malamute Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Average: Alaskan Malamute dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can an Alaskan Malamute be left alone? How long can you leave an Alaskan Malamute alone?
Alaskan Malamute dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Alaskan Malamute Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Alaskan Malamute has a hard bite? What is the bite force of an Alaskan Malamute? How much bite force does an Alaskan Malamute have? How strong is an Alaskan Malamute bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Alaskan Malamute bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Alaskan Malamute measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of an Alaskan Malamute is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Alaskan Malamute bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Alaskan Malamute bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train an Alaskan Malamute puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Alaskan Malamute, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Alaskan Malamute bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, an Alaskan Malamute can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Alaskan Malamute bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Mally? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Alaskan Malamute? Why do dog bites happen?

Moderate

The Alaskan Malamute has an average chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Alaskan Malamute do?
Alaskan Malamute dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Alaskan Malamute dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Alaskan Malamute Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Alaskan Malamute dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Alaskan Malamute is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Alaskan Malamute breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Alaskan Malamute breed? Most common health risks of Alaskan Malamute:
Cataracts Hip Dysplasia HypothyroidismChondrodysplasiaHemeralopiaInherited Polyneuropathy
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Alaskan Malamute breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Alaskan Malamute see the vet?
Average
The Alaskan Malamute should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Alaskan Malamute dogs live? How old can a Alaskan Malamute be? What is the age limit of the Alaskan Malamute? How many years can the oldest Alaskan Malamute live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of an Alaskan Malamute?

How long is the lifespan of an Alaskan Malamute?

11-15 years
The average lifespan of Alaskan Malamute: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers cold weather
The Alaskan Malamute can adapt well to harsh weather conditions, and also can be a good mountain dog. Dogs can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia in extremely cold weather, so it is important to take precautions to keep your dog safe and comfortable during the winter months.

Alaskan Malamute Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Alaskan Malamute have? What is the activity level of the Alaskan Malamute?
Alaskan Malamute dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does an Alaskan Malamute need? How much exercise do Alaskan Malamute dogs require per day?

Do Alaskan Malamute dogs need a lot of exercises?

Alaskan Malamute dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Alaskan Malamute breed need?
Alaskan Malamute dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Alaskan Malamute Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does an Alaskan Malamute need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does an Alaskan Malamute breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Alaskan Malamute? How much food should I feed my Alaskan Malamute?
Recommended daily amount: 4 to 5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Alaskan Malamute risk for obesity:
Average: The Alaskan Malamute has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Alaskan Malamute weight regularly.

Alaskan Malamute Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Alaskan Malamute have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
DenseRoughThickWeather-resistant
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Alaskan Malamute coats?
BlackGray Red White
Grooming
How to groom the Alaskan Malamute and how often? How often should I take my Alaskan Malamute to the groomer?
Average: The Alaskan Malamute requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Alaskan Malamute, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Alaskan Malamute dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Mally? Do Alaskan Malamute dogs shed a lot?
Alaskan Malamute dogs are heavy shedders. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Be prepared for the daily vacuum cleaning. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Alaskan Malamute need a bath? How often should you give an Alaskan Malamute a bath? Can I bathe my Alaskan Malamute every day?
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Alaskan Malamute breed hypoallergenic?
No
Alaskan Malamute dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Low 🔽

The Alaskan Malamute has a low chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Alaskan Malamute drool?
The Alaskan Malamute is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Alaskan Malamute could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Alaskan Malamute.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Alaskan Malamute Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Alaskan Malamute dogs get along with other pets? Are Alaskan Malamute dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Alaskan Malamute dogs do best when they’re the only pet at the family.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Alaskan Malamute temperament with other people:
Alaskan Malamute dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Alaskan Malamute dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Alaskan Malamute temperament with children:
Alaskan Malamute dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Alaskan Malamute dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Alaskan Malamute breed live with a cat?
Alaskan Malamute dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Alaskan Malamute good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Alaskan Malamute dogs get along with other dogs?
Alaskan Malamute dogs are very dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Alaskan Malamute can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Alaskan Malamute breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Alaskan Malamute breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Alaskan Malamute dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Alaskan Malamute dogs good office canines? Do Alaskan Malamute dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Alaskan Malamute is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Alaskan Malamute dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Mally temperament with senior people? Are Alaskan Malamute dogs good for elderly owners?
Alaskan Malamutes are usually recommended for elderly people.

Alaskan Malamute As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Alaskan Malamute be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Alaskan Malamute is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Alaskan Malamute be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Alaskan Malamute be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Alaskan Malamute is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Alaskan Malamute be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Alaskan Malamute is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Alaskan Malamute be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Alaskan Malamute is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Alaskan Malamute be a boat dog?

Not really

Alaskan Malamute breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Alaskan Malamute be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Alaskan Malamute is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Alaskan Malamute dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Yes

In history, this breed was unfortunately used for combat dogs. A combat dog is a specially trained dog that is used in warfare to help protect military personnel and assets. Combat dogs are often deployed in areas where there is potential for contact with the enemy, such as during raids or search operations. Combat dogs are typically assigned to either infantry or special operations units. They are used for a variety of tasks including area security, sentry duty, trackers, and explosive detection. In addition to their combat roles, combat dogs also play an important role in troop morale by providing companionship and emotional support.

Alaskan Malamute Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is an Alaskan Malamute pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Alaskan Malamute breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Alaskan Malamute: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Alaskan Malamute have in a litter? How many puppies can the Alaskan Malamute breed have for the first time? How many puppies does an Alaskan Malamute have? How many puppies can an Alaskan Malamute give birth to?
4-10 puppies

Alaskan Malamute Recognition

AKC Group
Is Alaskan Malamute recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1935 as a Working breed.
FCI Group
Is Alaskan Malamute recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Spitz and primitive types group, in the Nordic Sledge Dogs section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Alaskan Malamute breed?
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryCanadian Kennel ClubDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleKennel Club of Great BritainNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Continental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubNew Zealand Kennel ClubUnited Kennel Club

Alaskan Malamute Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Trainability: Alaskan Malamute dogs are easy to train.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Alaskan Malamute is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Stinkiness: The Alaskan Malamute has a low chance of bad smell.
  • Watchdog Ability: Alaskan Malamute dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Child Friendly: Alaskan Malamute dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Alaskan Malamute dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Alaskan Malamutes are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Alaskan Malamute dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Alaskan Malamute dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Alaskan Malamute breed.
  • Shedding Level: Alaskan Malamute dogs are heavy shedders.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Alaskan Malamute dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Alaskan Malamute dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Cat Friendly: Alaskan Malamute dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Alaskan Malamute is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Alaskan Malamute History

As its name suggests, the breed comes from Alaska and presumably has helped the Eskimos in cargo and hunting in the northwestern part of Kotzebue Bay.
In 1896, when Alaska was a gold rush, the dog became popular and paid a lot of money for such a dog to pull sliced gold.
They allegedly tried to cross several breeds to increase their speed, but this breeding direction was not accepted and they tried to restore the original bloodline.
Alaskan Malamute is characterized by strong stamina. Nowadays it is considered a companion, but it is also called sledding competitions.

Rate The Alaskan Malamute Breed

Alaskan Malamute Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • malamutes

    Jan 13, 2021, 3:42:53 PM:

    silly doggos

  • Lilly

    Dec 17, 2019, 11:42:31 PM:

    Alaskan Malamutes are a joy to have. I have one and he is the funniest thing I have ever seen

  • Claire

    Dec 17, 2019, 11:40:30 PM:

    I love these dogs so much! They need lots of attention but make a great family pet.