Alaskan Malamute

Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson Alaskan Malamute

Average size and lifespan

chihuahua silhouette
great dane silhouette
Height: 1ft 11in - 2ft 1in
Weight: 75-85lbs
Lifespan: 10 - 13 Years

Behavior

  • Affection3/5
  • Kid-Friendly2/5
  • Stranger-Friendly3/5
  • Dog-Friendly2/5
  • Barking Amount3/5

Care

  • Grooming Difficulty3/5
  • Shedding Amount3/5
  • Easy to Train2/5
  • Can Be Alone2/5
  • Exercise Need4/5

Environment

  • Cold Tolerance5/5
  • Heat Tolerance2/5
  • Apartment-Friendly2/5

Alaskan Malamute Information

Alaskan MalamuteLoyal, affectionate and fun, the Alaskan Malamutes is one of the oldest artic sled dogs, with a deep chest and well-muscled body. He possesses great strength and was built to carry heavy loads over long distances. HIs coat is thick, coarse and can be gray, black, sable or red, with distinctive face markings. Believed to be a descendant of the domesticated wolf dogs of the Paleolithic area, Alaskan Malamutes are currently the 53rd most popular dog in the United States. Because he is built for working, this dog craves regular exercises and can be strong willed at times. He is easy to train and very loyal and is a great addition to homes with children.

All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. Please let us know if we made an error in the stats.

Breed FAQs

Can Alaskan Malamutes be apartment dogs?

The Alaskan Malamute needs room to run and play. That makes them difficult to keep in a small apartment.

Can Alaskan Malamutes be left alone?

Alaskan Malamutes don't like being left alone for too long. They tend to show some separation anxiety when left apart from their people.

Are Alaskan Malamutes good with kids?

Alaskan Malamutes can be difficult around the rowdy behavior of a child. They should be watched very closely.

Are Alaskan Malamutes friendly with strangers?

Although Alaskan Malamutes can take a bit to warm up, they are mostly friendly with strangers.

Do Alaskan Malamutes get along with other dogs?

Alaskan Malamutes aren't usually friendly with other dogs. They tend not to get along unless they are carefully socialized.

Do Alaskan Malamutes bark a lot?

As far as dogs go, Alaskan Malamutes bark an average amount. Expect barking to alert you, get attention, or react to strangers and other dogs.

Do Alaskan Malamutes shed a lot?

Alaskan Malamutes shed a medium amount. They have seasonal shedding, but they aren't terrible to clean up after.

Do Alaskan Malamutes need a lot of grooming?

Alaskan Malamutes need a medium amount of coat care. Brushing and bathing will usually be enough.

Do Alaskan Malamutes need a lot of exercise?

The Alaskan Malamute has a good amount of energy and needs walks and play to stay happy.

Are Alaskan Malamutes easy to train?

Most Alaskan Malamutes are stubborn and take extra work to train. They can still learn, but it takes more effort.

Can Alaskan Malamutes handle cold weather?

If you live in a cold climate, Alaskan Malamutes will do extremely well and may even enjoy being outside in chilly weather.

Can Alaskan Malamutes handle hot weather?

Be careful with Alaskan Malamutes in the heat. They don't do well in hot climates for long periods.

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