Alaskan Malamute

History:
Over 2000 years ago in what is now Alaska, the Mahlemuit Eskimos used the highly valued Alaskan Malamute for transportation. They hauled light riding sleds, and pulled heavy loads (i.e. food supplies). Later, the Malamute gained recognition when they accompanied Admiral Byrd’s expeditions to the pole. This breed has amazing strength, stamina and perseverance. 

Description:
Hefty, durable, heavy-boned Arctic dog with a thick, rough double coat and a furry, plumed tail held over the back. The Alaskan Malamute is built for not for speed but rather endurance and power. The strong chest is about half as deep as the height at the shoulder. The feet are furry and possess tough pads. The head is wide with erect ears and brown, triple-sided, wide-set eyes, which should never be blue. There should be a slight wrinkle between the eyes. The Alaskan Malamute has a double coat made of a coarse outer coat and a think, woolly, slippery undercoat. Colors include white, black and white, wolf gray, wolf sable, or red, sometimes with darker highlights and occasionally with a dark mask or cap. White is the only solid color allowed. All the other colors should come in blends, with white as the predominant color on the underbelly. A white blaze on the forehead and/or collar is a bonus. With the exception of the reds, the rims of the eyes, the nose, and the lips should be black for all coat colors. A scissors bite is standard. In certain areas, dogs may be either smaller or bigger than the official standard.

Notes:
Beware of puppy-mill dogs as health and mood problems exist. Due to its dominant nature, Malamutes can be difficult to housebreak. The breed likes to march in his territory, so it’s necessary to have a well-fenced yard. Really heavy shedder during shedding periods. Quiet compared to most dogs, but is prone to howl. Can be a digger. The Malamute should be administered around unfamiliar small animals because of its strong prey instinct. However, Malamutes have been observed to raise young kittens as their own. The Malamute’s coat allows him to withstand frigid climates, but caution will be necessary to keep the dog cool in hot temperatures. The Malamute should be given cover and a lot of cool water. Proper socialization with people and other dogs is a must. Obedience development is highly suggested. Both male and female can be very belligerent with other dogs, especially with the same sex and breed. Usually a very hardy dog–lives to about a dozen years, which is a fairly long life span for a large breed. Prone to hip dysplasia (but no more than the average for large breeds and less than many) and chondrodysplasia (a type of dwarfism). Require OFA, CERF, and ChD (dwarfism test) certification of both parents. 

Talents:
Search & rescue, sledding, weight pulling, and racing.

Personality:
A rowdy puppy, this breed is a good match for children who are old enough to play with him safely. Generally matures into a distinguished and pleasant adult. Extremely friendly thus, not appropriate as a guard dog. Malamutes are happiest living outside as long as they get enough companionship, but they also enjoy living inside with humans. These dogs may become destructive annoyances when not given attention. Malamutes love outdoor activities and even do well with compliance when encouraged. Although it can be hard to train Malamutes for strict obedience, it is not especially hard to train them to be well-mannered due to their eagerness to please. Males can be very dominant. 

Behavior:
Children: Best with older children who are considerate.
Friendliness: Loves everyone.
Trainability: somewhat difficult to train.
Independence: Very independent
Dominance: Medium.
Other Pets: May be aggressive with dogs of the same sex; do not trust with non-canine pets.
Combativeness: Very dog-aggressive.
Noise: Prone to howl.
Indoors: Fairly active indoors.
Owner: Not recommended for novice owners.

Grooming and Physical Needs:
Grooming: A little grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Fluffy coat.
Shedding: Seasonally heavy shedder.
Exercise: Needs much exercise.
Jogging: A great jogging companion.
Apartments: Not recommended for apartments.
Outdoor Space: Best with a large yard.
Climate: Prefers cool climates.
Longevity: Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years).