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Alaskan Malamute Facts

Alaskan Malamute Facts
Alaskan Malamute belongs to the group of Spitz dogs. It was created by Inuit tribe called Mahlemuts (hence the name). Alaskan Malamute originates from a primitive dog that traveled with prehistoric people during migrations from Asia to America thousands of years ago. It was initially used as a working dog whose main duties were to pull heavily loaded sledges, facilitate hunting of seals and provide protection against polar bears. Even though it is created to survive in extremely cold, tough conditions, Alaskan Malamute can be found all over the world today where it is kept mostly as pet.
Interesting Alaskan Malamute Facts:
Alaskan Malamute can reach 23 to 25 inches in height and 75 to 85 pounds of weight.
Alaskan Malamute has thick, double coat that can be grey, red or black colored with prominent white markings on the head, legs, belly and paws.
Alaskan Malamute has big head with pointed muzzle, small, pointed ears, powerful body and upward curved tail. It can be seen in many movies in a role of wolf, due to great resemblance between these two species.
Alaskan Malamute is one of the rare breeds of dogs that didn't change a lot since its creation.
Alaskan Malamute was used as a working dog during the WWI and WWII. It is slower than other types of sled dogs, but it can travel longer distances thanks to its great stamina and strength.
Alaskan Malamute is affectionate, friendly and loyal dog. However, it will not execute all commands issued by its owner because of its stubborn nature.
Alaskan Malamute is true type of pack dog. It likes to live surrounded with many people and animals and to be part of everyday activities of its family.
Alaskan Malamute is good with children and other animals (when properly socialized), but it often shows dominance over other breeds of dogs.
Alaskan Malamute is not good guard dog because it treats all guests and people that it meets for the first time as friends.
Alaskan Malamute is very intelligent and active dog. It requires plenty of mental and physical exercises to prevent boredom and development of destructive behavior. It likes to dig.
Alaskan Malamute rarely barks, but it communicates with its owner via distinctive "woo-woo" calls and howls.
Alaskan Malamute is odorless breed. It often cleans itself like a cat and doesn't require frequent baths (once or twice per year). However, it sheds a lot (heavy shedding takes place two times per year) and it requires brushing at least one to three times a week to keep shedding under control.
Alaskan Malamute gives birth to 6 puppies on average.
Alaskan Malamute is generally healthy breed, but it can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism and cataract.
An average lifespan of Alaskan Malamute is 12 to 15 years.


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