What you need to know about Alaskan Malamutes

The Alaskan Malamute  is a large breed of dog that was originally bred for its strength and endurance, to haul heavy freight as a sled dog, and as a hound.  It is similar to other arctic breeds such as the husky, the spitz, the Greenland Dog, Canadian Eskimo Dog, the Siberian Husky, and the Samoyed.

The Alaskan Malamute had a prominent role with their human companions as a utilitarian dog, working, hunting, and living alongside humans. The dogs were renowned for their excellent hunting abilities and were used to hunt large predators such as bears. They also aided their owners in finding seals by alerting them to seal blowholes. The interdependent relationship between the Malamute and their dogs fostered prosperity among both and enabled them to flourish in the inhospitable land above the Arctic Circle.

For a brief period during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1896, the Malamute and other sled dogs became extremely valuable to recently landed prospectors and settlers and were frequently crossbred with imported breeds.

Breed recognition came in 1935, largely through the efforts of Mrs. Eva B. Seeley. At that time many dogs were of unknown ancestry. Those who appeared purebred were used for breeding, others weeded out. After a few years, the registry was closed.

Losses from service in World War II all but eliminated the breed. In 1947 there were estimated to be only about 30 registered dogs left, so the studbook was reopened. Robert J. Zoller became involved in the breed and took this opportunity to combine M'’Loot and Hinman/Irwin dogs with selected Kotzebues to create what became the Husky-Pak line. All modern Malamutes are descended from the early strains and show combinations of characteristics to a greater or lesser degree. Thus the natural differences we see today.

Care and upkeep

Alaskan Malamutes enjoy a long walk or hike daily, coupled with vigorous games. Because they often do not come when called, the space in which Mals run needs to be safe or securely fenced. Some can be escape artists. They particularly enjoy sledding and weight-pulling activities and can also compete successfully in a variety of activities such as agility, obedience, and nose work.

Britannica Quiz

Best In Show

The breed’s thick coat needs brushing daily, especially when shedding. Because the coat is so dense, Mals are susceptible to overheating in warm weather, and they typically prefer cold climates.

Although generally healthy, Alaskan Malamutes can experience certain issues. Of particular note are day blindness, in which the dog is sensitive to bright light, and cataracts. An underactive thyroid is also a concern. In addition, as with all large breeds prone to hip dysplasia, puppies should eat a large-breed puppy food designed to slow their growth rate, which lessens the chance of developing the condition.

Temperament

The Alaskan Malamute is as strong-willed as it is strong-bodied. A pack animal, it will try to dominate those it does not respect. Thus, training is important, though the process is not always easy, given the dog’s independent nature, great strength, and occasional stubbornness. The exception is training for sledding or pulling, which it learns very quickly. The breed is moderately energetic and playful. It seems to have a sense of humour that can lead to mischief. Because of its strength and determination, it may not be the best choice for children or the elderly. Mals are typically affectionate toward family and friends and fairly amiable with strangers. However, the breed can be aggressive toward unfamiliar dogs. With training, it can be an adequate watchdog but typically is not a good protection dog. Left on their own, Mals may dig and howl excessively. It should be noted that these claims are a traditional and widely accepted generalization about the breed, and the behaviour of individual Alaskan Malamutes may differ.