Alaskan Malamute
Description
The Alaskan Malamute is a powerful, large dog originally bred for hauling heavy freight across Arctic terrain. This breed shares roots with other northern dogs like the Siberian Husky and Samoyed but stands out for its strength and endurance. Named after the Mahlemut Inuit tribe, Malamutes have been essential for sled pulling, seal hunting, and even deterring polar bears. Their dense double coat protects them from extreme cold, making them well-suited for harsh climates. Friendly and affectionate, Malamutes thrive in family settings and enjoy playful interactions with children. They’re not suited for guarding due to their sociable nature. While they’re intelligent, their independent streak means training requires patience and consistency. Their strong prey drive means supervision around smaller pets is necessary. Malamutes vocalize through howls and “talks,” especially when understimulated or lonely. They need ample space to roam and exercise, so apartment living is usually not ideal.
Grooming
Alaskan Malamutes have a medium-length double coat that demands regular care to stay healthy. Brushing three times a week is essential, with more frequent sessions during heavy shedding seasons in spring and fall. Using an undercoat rake helps remove loose fur trapped beneath the topcoat, reducing mats and promoting airflow to the skin. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks keeps the coat clean, but always follow up with thorough blow-drying to prevent moisture retention that can lead to skin issues. Their coat colors range from agouti and sable to black and white, with some sporting distinctive black or gray masks, so pay attention to areas prone to dirt buildup, especially around the face and paws. - Brush 3× weekly; increase during shedding - Use undercoat rake for dead hair - Bathe every 4–6 weeks - Blow-dry thoroughly after baths - Check ears and paws regularly Pro tip: Start grooming routines early to build trust and reduce resistance.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Alaskan Malamutes require about 80 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to keep them engaged and prevent boredom. Their stamina allows for long, steady walks rather than short bursts of speed. Morning walks can be brisk and energizing, while evening strolls help unwind and reinforce calm behavior before bedtime. This breed benefits from varied routes to stimulate their curious nature and reduce monotony. Example routine: - Morning: 40 minutes brisk walk - Evening: 40 minutes relaxed stroll Keep walks consistent and mentally engaging to satisfy their working-dog instincts.
Boarding
When boarding an Alaskan Malamute, provide a crate at least 48 inches long to accommodate their size comfortably. These dogs enjoy active play sessions, so staff should schedule two energetic play blocks daily combined with scent and brain games to keep their minds sharp. Avoid small-animal toys due to their strong prey drive, and ensure fencing is secure to prevent escapes. Malamutes thrive with enrichment that challenges their problem-solving skills and taps into their natural instincts. Staff should be aware that Malamutes can show dominance toward other dogs of the same sex, so careful social grouping is important. Their vocal nature means they may howl or “talk” when bored or anxious, so providing companionship or interactive activities helps reduce noise. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are key to a happy stay.