Alaskan Malamute

Care Level: High (exercise + grooming demands) Temperament: Bold, affectionate, independent, pack-oriented Diet: High-protein working dog formula (prone to obesity) Lifespan: 10–14 years Weight: 75–100 lbs (34–45 kg) – Females slightly smaller Distinct Features: Wolf-like face, plush tail, powerful build, "snowshoe" paws What We Love About This Breed: ➤ "Arctic Powerhouse" – Oldest native sled dog of Alaska, bred by the Mahlemut Inuit ➤ Freight-hauling strength – Can pull 1,000+ lbs (450 kg) over short distances ➤ Social pack mentality – Thrives in multi-dog homes (dominance challenges possible) ➤ Winter enthusiast – Loves snow so much they'll sleep buried in drifts The Alaskan Malamute is a blizzard given form—strong-willed, enduring, and magnificent: ✓ Blizzard-proof coat – Thick double layer requires daily brushing (blows coat 2x/year) ✓ Working dog physique – Deep chest, muscular shoulders, compact feet ✓ Color variations – Gray/wolf, black/white, sable, or rare red Arctic Survival Traits: ✓ Self-sufficient mindset – Thinks independently (not eager-to-please) ✓ Vocal communicator – "Woo-woo" howls instead of barking ✓ Digging instinct – Creates cooling pits in summer, snow dens in winter Health Notes: Prone to hip dysplasia, polyneuropathy, and chondrodysplasia. Responsible breeders test for: OFA/PennHIP certifications DNA for Alaskan Malamute Polyneuropathy (AMPN) Eye exams for hereditary cataracts Ideal For: ✔ Active owners who enjoy winter sports (skijoring, sledding) ✔ Experienced dog handlers comfortable with strong-willed breeds ✔ Homes with secure fencing (notorious escape artists) Heritage Insight: Unlike faster sled dogs, Malamutes were bred for strength and endurance to haul heavy loads across frozen terrain. Their name honors the Mahlemut tribe who developed them as essential survival partners.