Alaskan Malamute

About the Breed

The Alaskan Malamute is a large, robust breed of Arctic sled dog. It is a hardy and strong breed that has been used since ancient times as a working dog, transporting people and goods over snow-covered terrain. They are loyal, intelligent, and affectionate family companions. History The Alaskan Malamute was first documented in the 1800s by an American naturalist exploring Alaska. The breed was developed by the Mahlemut Inupiat Eskimos of Alaska as an endurance sled dog to haul heavy freight over long distances. They were bred to be very strong in order to pull heavy loads over long distances in cold climates. The breed's name comes from the Mahlemut tribe of Alaska who developed them as their primary working dogs. Temperament Alaskan Malamutes are loyal, intelligent, and friendly dogs that make great family pets. They are also very independent and require an owner with a firm hand who can provide consistent training and exercise for them to stay mentally stimulated. They also need plenty of socialization with other animals to avoid becoming overly protective or territorial around strangers or other animals. While they do have a tendency to bark excessively if not trained properly, they are generally quiet dogs that make excellent watchdogs due to their alertness and intelligence. Ideal Owner The Alaskan Malamute is an ideal pet for active individuals or families who have plenty of time to devote towards training and exercising them regularly. Since they were bred as working dogs they will need plenty of physical activity such as running, hiking or playing fetch in order to stay healthy both mentally and physically. Due to their size it is important for owners living in small spaces like apartments or condos be aware that this may not be the best fit for them since these dogs require large amounts of space both indoors and outdoors if possible due to their size.. Additionally those looking for this breed should understand that these dogs shed quite heavily twice per year so regular brushing will be required during these times if living indoors with ones pet is desired.. Health & Weight The average weight range for adult Alaskan Malamutes ranges from 45-75 pounds depending on gender although there can sometimes be variance between individual dogs from this range depending on genetics. Females tend to weigh less than males when fully grown which can range anywhere from 45-60 pounds while males typically weigh anywhere between 50-75 pounds at full maturity. It is important that owners monitor their pets weight closely since obesity can cause health issues such as joint pain, diabetes, heart problems etc. It should also be noted that females tend to reach full maturity slightly sooner than males at around 18 months compared with 24 months respectively. Important Health Checks Regular veterinary checkups should be done annually along with routine vaccinations, dental cleanings, flea/tick prevention treatments etc. Additionally eye exams should always be done yearly since some congenital eye defects may exist within the breed such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) which affects night vision so its important any potential issues are caught early before they cause vision loss permanently. Additionally hip dysplasia screening should always done prior to breeding since this common orthopedic condition affects many large breeds including the Alaskan Malamute.. Lastly regular grooming should always occur which includes brushing out any mats within their coat twice weekly plus bathing every few months depending on activity level/time spent outdoors etc.. The Alaskan Malamute is an ancient Arctic sledding dog with a long history working alongside humans enduring harsh weather conditions while transporting goods across snow covered terrain. This powerful yet loving canine makes an excellent companion for active individuals/families who have plenty time devoted towards its care plus understands the importance of proper socialization/training along with monitoring health checks regularly.. With its impressive strength combined loyalty/affectionate nature makes them desirable pet choice amongst many households today..