Alaskan Malamute
The Good
- Calm and balanced temperament
- Excellent cold weather tolerance
- Tremendous strength and power
- Active and energetic nature
The Real
- Can be stubborn and strong-willed
- Poor guard dog qualities due to friendliness
- Large size requires space
- Heat intolerance
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Alaskan Malamute is one of those breeds that commands respect the moment you meet them. These magnificent dogs are built like arctic athletes - powerful, sturdy, and designed for serious work. Standing up to 64 cm tall and weighing up to 39 kg, they're substantial dogs with the heart to match their impressive size.
What strikes you first about Malamutes is their wolf-like appearance, though genetically they're no closer to wolves than most other breeds. Their thick double coat, erect ears, and plumed tail carried over their back give them that unmistakable northern look. But it's their eyes that really get you - almond-shaped and warm brown, they sparkle with intelligence and mischief.
Here's what makes Malamutes special: they're natural-born leaders with personalities as big as their frames. These dogs were bred to think independently and make decisions, which means they're brilliant but can be wonderfully stubborn when they don't see the point of what you're asking. They're the kind of dog that will hear your command, understand it perfectly, then give you a look that says "but why?"
Australian families who fall for Malamutes quickly discover they're getting a dog with opinions. They're incredibly social, love being part of family activities, and will "talk" to you with expressive howls and "awoos" that can sound like you're having a proper conversation. Just don't expect them to be guard dogs - to most Malamutes, every stranger is just a friend they haven't met yet.
History
History
The Alaskan Malamute's story begins thousands of years ago with the Mahlemiut tribe in Alaska's harsh northwestern regions. These indigenous people needed dogs that could survive brutal Arctic conditions while hauling heavy sleds across frozen landscapes. The dogs they developed weren't just workers - they were family members, sharing warmth in shelters and helping hunt seals and even scare off polar bears.
Archaeological evidence suggests these dogs have been alongside humans since the Stone Age, evolving over 4-6 centuries into the magnificent animals we know today. Early Arctic explorers wrote about encountering these peaceful, friendly dogs that seemed perfectly adapted to their frozen world.
The breed's name comes directly from the Mahlemiut people, who lived nomadic lives across Alaska, Greenland, and Canada. For them, these dogs weren't pets but essential partners for survival. The dogs needed to be strong enough for long journeys, hardy enough for extreme weather, and intelligent enough to navigate dangerous terrain.
Everything changed during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1896. Prospectors flooding into Alaska discovered these remarkable sled dogs and began crossbreeding them with dogs they brought from outside. This nearly destroyed the pure bloodlines, but the dogs proved their worth again during a diphtheria outbreak when they delivered life-saving vaccine to Nome in just five days - a journey that would have taken mail delivery over two weeks.
The breed was officially recognised by the American Kennel Club in 1935, largely thanks to Eva Seeley's dedicated breeding program. Today, while most Australian Malamutes won't be pulling sleds through snow, they carry the same independent spirit and work ethic that helped their ancestors survive in one of Earth's most challenging environments.
Traits & Characteristics
Alaskan Malamute characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Alaskan Malamutes are generally robust dogs with lifespans of 10-14 years, but like many large breeds, they do have some health considerations Australian owners should know about. The good news is that most issues are manageable with proper care and early detection.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are the most common concerns, affecting the joints as these powerful dogs age. You might notice your Malamute limping, having trouble standing, or sitting in unusual positions. Regular vet check-ups and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage these conditions, with treatments ranging from pain management to surgery in severe cases.
Eye problems, particularly cataracts, can develop as Malamutes age or due to other factors like inflammation. Once diagnosed, cataracts typically worsen unless surgically removed, so regular eye examinations are important.
Hypothyroidism is another condition to watch for, where the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormone. Signs include unexplained weight gain, lethargy, heat-seeking behaviour, and brittle coat. The good news is this responds well to medication once diagnosed.
Australian owners should be aware of two genetic conditions: chondrodysplasia, which causes limb deformities in puppies (responsible breeders test for this), and polyneuropathy, a nervous system disorder that can affect movement and voice. While there's no cure for polyneuropathy, mild cases often allow dogs to live relatively normal lives.
Interestingly, Malamutes have trouble absorbing zinc, which can lead to skin problems and coat issues. Your Australian vet might recommend specific supplements to address this breed quirk.
The key to keeping your Malamute healthy is choosing a responsible breeder who health tests their breeding dogs, maintaining regular vet check-ups, and watching for early signs of these conditions.
Feeding an Alaskan Malamute properly is crucial because these dogs have some unique dietary quirks that Australian owners need to understand. First and foremost - never free-feed a Malamute. These dogs will eat everything in sight until they're completely stuffed, which quickly leads to obesity and joint problems.
Adult Malamutes should eat two measured meals per day, while puppies need three smaller meals. The exact amount depends on your dog's age, size, and activity level, so work with your Australian vet to determine the right portions. A slow-feeder bowl is a brilliant investment because these dogs tend to wolf down their food.
Choose a high-quality dog food that meets Australian standards - look for products that provide complete and balanced nutrition. Malamutes benefit from foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin C for joint, eye, and coat health. Given their zinc absorption issues, your vet might recommend specific supplements.
Here's something important for Australian owners: Malamutes were bred to work in extreme cold, which means their metabolism is designed for high-energy output in harsh conditions. In Australia's warmer climate, they may need fewer calories than you'd expect for such a large, active dog. Monitor their weight carefully, especially during our hotter months when they're naturally less active.
Never feed your Malamute chocolate, cooked bones, raw meat, grapes, onions, or garlic - these can cause serious health problems. Stick to their regular meals and use healthy training treats sparingly.
Fresh water should always be available, and during Australian summers, make sure they have access to cool, clean water both inside and outside. Some Malamutes enjoy ice cubes as treats, which can help them stay cool while providing entertainment.
If you're thinking about a Malamute, here's the truth about their grooming needs: you'll become very familiar with your vacuum cleaner! These beautiful dogs have a thick double coat designed for Arctic survival, and in Australia's climate, that means year-round maintenance.
Daily brushing is non-negotiable. Use a slicker brush and metal comb to work through their coat, checking for mats that can harbour fungus and hot spots that might become infected. This isn't just about appearance - regular brushing distributes natural oils, removes debris, and helps manage the constant shedding that comes with the territory.
Twice a year, during major shedding seasons (usually spring and autumn in Australia), you'll need to step up your game. An undercoat rake becomes essential during these periods, and you might find yourself brushing daily just to stay on top of the hair tumbleweeds floating around your home.
Bathing should happen every 6-8 weeks unless they've gotten into something messy. Use dog-specific shampoos - human products can irritate their skin due to different pH levels. Many Australian Malamute owners find professional grooming helpful, especially for nail trims and the tricky hair trimming around their feet.
Speaking of feet, those furry paws need regular attention. Hair grows between their toes and needs trimming to prevent matting and discomfort. Check their ears weekly for signs of infection - healthy ears should be pink and clean. Daily eye checks help prevent debris buildup that can cause problems.
During Australia's warmer months, never shave your Malamute thinking it'll help them stay cool. Their double coat actually insulates against heat too, and shaving can cause serious skin problems and permanent coat damage.
Training a Malamute is like negotiating with a brilliant, furry teenager who's convinced they know better than you. These dogs are incredibly intelligent and absolutely capable of learning anything you want to teach them - the challenge is convincing them it's worth their while.
Malamutes have what rescue organisations lovingly call "selective hearing." They'll hear your command, understand it perfectly, then decide whether they feel like complying. This isn't defiance - it's their heritage. These dogs were bred to think independently and make survival decisions in harsh conditions, so they naturally question authority.
The key to success is establishing yourself as a respected leader early on. Positive reinforcement works brilliantly, but you need patience and consistency. Keep training sessions interesting and varied because bored Malamutes will simply switch off. Early socialisation is absolutely crucial - expose your puppy to different people, animals, and situations so they learn appropriate behaviour.
Exercise is where Malamutes truly shine. These dogs need serious physical activity - we're talking 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise daily. In Australia's climate, time your activities for cooler parts of the day. Early morning beach walks along the Gold Coast, evening hikes in Melbourne's Dandenong Ranges, or dawn runs through Adelaide's parklands work perfectly.
Malamutes excel at activities like hiking, jogging alongside bikes (once they're fully mature), backpacking, and even pulling activities if you're into something different. Many Australian dog sports clubs offer activities perfect for channelling their energy and intelligence.
Remember: a tired Malamute is a happy Malamute. Without adequate exercise and mental stimulation, these dogs will find their own entertainment - usually involving redecorating your furniture or landscaping your garden!
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Malamute owner in Australia is someone who understands they're not just getting a pet - they're gaining a powerful, intelligent partner with definite opinions about how life should be lived. These dogs thrive with owners who appreciate their independent nature while providing firm, consistent leadership.
You'll love a Malamute if you're an active person or family who enjoys outdoor adventures. Think weekend camping trips to the Grampians, early morning beach walks, or hiking through national parks. These dogs make fantastic companions for people who want a buddy for their active lifestyle, not just a couch companion.
Malamutes suit experienced dog owners best. If this is your first dog, you might find their strong personality overwhelming. They need someone who can establish leadership without being harsh - think firm but fair, like a good teacher who students respect.
Space matters significantly. While Malamutes can adapt to various living situations, they're happiest with secure yard space where they can patrol and play. Unit dwellers in Sydney or Melbourne need to commit to extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep their Malamute content.
These dogs don't suit people who work long hours regularly. Malamutes are social animals who become destructive when bored or lonely. They're perfect for retirees, people working from home, or families where someone's usually around.
You should not get a Malamute if you want a guard dog (they're too friendly), if you can't handle regular grooming and vacuuming, or if you prefer quiet, low-maintenance pets. They're also not ideal for families with very young children due to their size and energy, though they're generally gentle with kids when properly socialised.
Interesting facts about the Alaskan Malamute
Interesting Fact
In 1933, Admiral Richard Byrd selected Malamutes for his Antarctic expedition, proving their incredible working abilities in extreme conditions
Interesting Fact
Malamutes rarely bark but are incredibly vocal, "talking" with howls, "awoos," and grumbles that sound remarkably like conversation
Interesting Fact
Sirens often trigger group howling sessions, though many Malamutes can be taught to "sing" on command
Interesting Fact
Most Malamutes are obsessive diggers - you can't train this instinct away, but you can designate a special digging area in your yard
FAQ
Alaskan Malamutes typically stand 58-64 cm tall and weigh 34-39 kg when fully grown. Males tend to be larger than females, and they're substantially bigger than Siberian Huskies, which people often confuse them with.
Malamutes make fantastic pets for the right families - those who can provide plenty of exercise, training, and stimulation. They're loyal, playful, and great with kids, but they need experienced owners who understand their independent nature.
Yes, Malamutes are definitely vocal dogs, but they don't typically bark much. Instead, they "talk" with howls and "awoo" sounds, especially when they're bored, excited, or want attention. Keeping them well-exercised helps minimise excessive vocalisation.
Malamutes struggle in hot weather due to their thick Arctic coat. Australian owners need to exercise them during cooler parts of the day, provide plenty of shade and water, and never leave them outside in heat. They're much more suited to Australia's cooler regions or homes with good air conditioning.
While possible, apartments aren't ideal for Malamutes. They're large, active dogs who need space to move and exercise. If you live in a unit, you'll need to commit to 2+ hours of daily exercise and activities to keep them happy and prevent destructive behaviour.
Daily brushing is essential year-round, with extra attention during shedding seasons. You'll also need regular baths every 6-8 weeks, nail trims, ear cleaning, and foot hair trimming. Be prepared for significant amounts of shed fur around your home.
Malamutes can be dominant with other dogs and have a high prey drive toward smaller animals. Early socialisation is crucial, and they often do best as only dogs or with pets they've grown up with from puppyhood.
These are high-energy working dogs that need 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise daily. Simple walks aren't enough - they need activities like hiking, jogging, or dog sports to stay mentally and physically satisfied.