The Alaskan Malamute is among some of the oldest dog breeds in the world. They have a powerful, solid body built for strength and stamina.
A high-energy dog, the Alaskan Malamute needs a lot of exercise. Leaving them home through the day will lead to destructive behaviour, so invest in a pet-sitter or dog walker to ensure your dog feels secure while you’re away.
Best suited to experienced dog owners, Alaskan Malamutes love a cooler climate and lots of space to burn off energy.
Intelligent, affectionate, and highly trainable, the Alaskan Malamute makes an excellent family dog, especially for those who love the great outdoors.
Famous Alaskan Malamutes
Alaskan Malamutes have starred in many movies, including:
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade; Snow Buddies: 8 Below; Call of the Wild; and White Fang 2: Myth of the White Wolf
They have also appeared in TV shows like Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman and Sergeant Preston of the Yukon.
Famous Owners:
Admiral Byrd (explorer), Judy Collins (singer), Herbert Hoover (US President), George Lucas (director), Robin Williams (comedian/actor), Vida Blue (baseball pitcher), Melissa Gilbert (actress), and Steve McQueen (actor).
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Alaskan Malamute History
The Alaskan Malamute is an ancient breed dating back thousands of years ago. They are named after the Inuit tribe Mahlemuts, who developed this breed in northern Alaska. Alaskan Malamutes were used to chase away polar bears, hunt seals, and pull heavy supply sleds.
During the gold rush in the 1890s, there was a great migration of people and dogs of various breeds and sizes. These dogs were bred with local dogs, which diluted the purity of native dogs.
Given the remoteness of Alaskan Malamutes, the breed purity remained largely intact.
Arthur T. Walden established his Chinook Kennel in New Hampshire and began breeding Alaskan Malamutes. He and his successors, Milton and Eva Seeley, supplied many dogs for the Byrd Antarctic expeditions in the 1930s. The Seeleys started a program to reproduce the dogs found in the Norton Sound area of Alaska. This strain of Alaskan Malamutes became known as the “Kotzebue” strain.
The “M’Loot” strain was developed in the early 1900s by Paul Voelker, Sr., who used the dogs he purchased in Alaska. Some M’Loots were used during the first and second world wars. Explorer Admiral Byrd also used this strain of the Alaskan Malamute in his second arctic expedition.
Due to the high demand for sled dogs and the Alaskan Malamute’s abilities to pull heavy loads of cargo long distances, many served during the second world war. Sadly, many were destroyed soon after.
Traits
Alaskan Malamutes bear a striking resemblance to wolves and are thought to be part wolf. They have even appeared on screen as wolves, but they are purebred domestic dogs. And boy do they shed! Although they have a heavy shedding season twice a year, they shed a great deal throughout the year.
The Alaskan Malamute’s working dog has incredible energy, strength, independence, endurance and intelligence. Today they are sought as companion dogs, but their working traits will shine through if they’re involved in dog sports, where they can excel.
Their high energy and intelligence mean that the Alaskan Malamute needs plenty of exercise and room to ensure they don’t become restless or bored. This will lead to destructive behaviour that their enormous size may only amplify.
The Alaskan Malamute is not all business, however. They have a very outgoing, loving, and playful nature. Although their size and overall wolf-like appearance may be intimidating to a stranger, they see everyone they meet as friends. As a result, the Alaskan Malamute doesn’t make a good watchdog, but they are highly loyal to their friends and family.
Although friendly with people, they will need early socialization and training to help them get along with other household pets. Otherwise, their strong prey drive could take over.
They adore the company of their human family and will insist on being part of all family activities. Alaskan Malamutes might even chime in on conversations with a characteristic “woo woo” or howl, but they are not known to bark much.
If they are left to roam in the backyard, be sure to have a tall and deep fence. Alaskan Malamutes love to dig. You may find them in the kitchen surfing counters or raiding the trash for a yummy snack if left alone at home.
Health
This breed is not as healthy as other breeds and may experience specific health conditions. Not every dog of this breed will get these diseases, but it’s essential to be aware of them. Some common health problems include:
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Von Willebrand’s disease
- Cataracts
- Chondrodysplasia
- Hip Dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Inherited Polyneuropathy
- Hemeralopia (Day Blindness)
Regardless of how healthy your dog is, a pet’s health insurance plan can help you stay prepared for any of your dog’s medical needs.