Alaskan Malamute
Height: 23-25in. Weight: 75-100lbs Lifespan: 12-15 yrs. Group: Working
The Alaskan Malamute is one of the oldest breeds around today. Originally, the Mahlemuts used these dogs in Alaska for pulling heavy sleds and helping in the hunt for polar bears. Even though they look like wolves, these dogs are all domestic today. They are friends to everyone they meet, unless you happen to be a squirrel or small animal that is. The Malamute, or Mal for short, makes a wonderful pet for many people.
These dogs were bred to work, and this is when they are happiest. Malamutes love to hike, pull carts or people on skis, go backpacking, anything to get them working and moving. This is a high energy dog so be prepared for that when considering the malamute. Along with their other skills, the malamute is an excellent digger. Many owners I have spoken to say it is better to pick a spot for them to dig then to try and stop them all together as most attempts are futile.
Alaskan Malamutes are beautiful and loving. They greet everyone they meet and are extremely loyal. However, the Alaskan Malamute will not make the right pet for everyone. The Mal is very stubborn and may be difficult to train. This is not because they are “stupid,” they just have been bred to think on their own. If a Malamute doesn’t see a reason for a command the chances are it won’t do it. Furthermore, these are big dogs and if not socialized and taught the rules early they can be a handful.
Remember to do your research when getting a Malamute as your next friend. These are big, wonderful dogs who want to please you and be your best friend. Malamutes are active dogs, especially when young, and will need exercise in a part of the day that is not to hot for these arctic dogs. If you have owned a dog before and know that you are a firm, consistent leader the malamute could be the dog you have always wanted.
The Final Verdict:
Family: A loyal lovable companion, is good with kids but might accidentally topple a little one over because of their size
Health: A generally healthy dog
Trainability: Malamutes are stubborn and training can be difficult; however, dog lives to please
Grooming: THICK double coat means shedding and heavy shedding twice a year, coat does stay clean though and is naturally dirt repellent
More Information of the Alaskan Malamute:
http://www.akc.org/breeds/alaskan_malamute/
http://www.alaskanmalamute.org/wiki/default.aspx
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alaskan_Malamute
