Is The Alaskan Malamute The Perfect Pet For You?

By Lee Dobbins
If you want hardy winter outdoor dog then the Alaskan Malamute may be the one for you!
This breed, descended from the Arctic Wolf, has roots in Alaska where it has been used by Alaskan Eskimos to pull sleds for over 2000 years. These hard-working dogs have great strength and endurance and have pulled sleds on many expeditions including Admiral Byrd’s expeditions to the North Pole.
Weighing in at around 80 to 95 pounds ( 70 - 85 for females) and growing to 24 to 26 inches ( a few inches shorter for females), the Alaskan Malamute is on the large side and part of the AKC Working group. Alaskan Malamutes have an average litter size of six puppies. With good care they can live to be 15 years old.
The sweet expression on these dogs make them just about the cutest puppies ever and they grow into beautiful sweet adults as well. Their disposition is just as sweet as it looks and they make loving pets, but a bit strong willed. they have a thick coat on a solid well-built body. Ears are held erect on a wide head and eyes are dark and almond shaped. There may be some Alaskan Malamutes with blue eyes, however this is a fault which would disqualify your dog in the show ring. The coat can be from 1 to 3 inches long and comes in Wolf Gray, solid white, black and white, red and a red undercoat with gray outer coat. Many dogs have a dark mask and other dark markings and the legs and muscle are usually white.
These dogs are loyal and affectionate, a great family pet and good with children. They are friendly to strangers but may not get along with small animals as they have a strong prey instinct. They also may not get along good with other dogs and early socialization and firm training are important to raising an obedient pet.
Alaskan Malamutes love the outdoors, especially in winter time. Taking your Malamute on a winter walk or bringing him with you when you are snowshoeing or cross-country skiing is a real treat. They can be happy in a fenced in yard but they do like to be around their "pack" so you need to be sure to spend lots of time with your dog even if you keep him outside. this is an act of dog that needs plenty of exercise and will do best with a large yard. It is not advised to let them run free, as this breed will roam in his territory. They can withstand cold temperatures well but in hot climates you need to make sure that the dog does not overheat. Be aware that they are diggers and if you do not bury your fence quite a bit under the ground you will soon find a large hole and no dog inside the fence.
This is a fairly hardy breed with few health problems. They can have hip dysplasia just like any other breed and may be prone to dwarfism. They are rather clean dogs and virtually odorless. they are heavy shedders and grooming consist of brushing twice a week and an occasional dry shampoo.
Lee Dobbins is a dog lover who writes for http://www.dogbreeds123.com where you can learn more about dog care and dog breeds as well as see pictures of different breeds like the Alaskan Malamute.
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