There’s no better companion than a dog—44.5% of US households own dogs. But being a responsible pet parent isn’t easy, and you must pick the size, lifestyle, temperament, and activity level that’s right for you and your family.
That’s why we’re here to help!
At Infinity Pups, we connect families with healthy, happy puppies that are just right for their lifestyles. We maintain a network of the best breeders that provide high-quality puppies to be your fur-ever pets, and we can’t wait for you to meet the perfect puppy for your family.
So, if you’re looking for a big, fluffy dog that’s affectionate, loyal, and playful yet dignified, an Alaskan Malamute might just be your pup! Their powerful shoulders and intense build show off their hard-working heritage, but their affectionate brown eyes, love of cuddling, and dense, rich coat give them that “floof factor.”
You deserve a pet that brings joy and loyalty into your daily life, and an Alaskan Malamute is an active ball of love and devotion that will give your family years of wonderful companionship.
Are you ready to explore this noble breed? Let’s get started!
History and Origin of the Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are named after a native Innuit tribe called Mahlemuts. They’re among the oldest sled dog breeds from the Arctic region. Unlike their smaller Siberian Huskies cousins, who tend to pull smaller loads at higher speeds, Malamutes were developed to be big and robust, able to haul heavy loads at low speeds over long distances. Malamutes are the long-distance truckers of the dog world!
The Malamute’s strength and endurance helped make history when they were selected to aid Admiral Richard Byrd on his Antarctic expedition in 1933. Today, Malamutes are still the first choice for sledding dogs when roughing it across the harsh Arctic tundra.
Malamutes have even been used as search and rescue dogs and have lately been trained to be exceptional service animals. These dogs are amazing and love to serve!
Physical Characteristics
Although the Alaskan Malamute has a storied heritage, it may not be for everyone. Let’s explore the Malamute’s characteristics, temperament, and needs to determine if this noble breed suits you.
Malamutes are impressive and muscular
A wolf-like and powerful, heavy-duty worker of a spitz, the Alaskan Malamute is recognizable by its furry plumed tail, erect ears, and substantial bone structure. They stand 23-25 inches at the shoulder and typically weigh between 75-85 pounds. Those big shoulders, deep chest, and dense, waterproof coat just scream, “I’m a hard-working dog!”
Malamutes have a thick, waterproof double coat
beautifully adapted to the harsh Arctic environment. The coat is dense, oily, and wooly, between one and two inches in depth. Malamutes come in a range of colors and have distinct facial markings, which you can read more about in this guide to the colors and markings of Malamutes.
Malamutes are handsome dogs.
Look at those erect, pointed ears and expressive, almond-shaped eyes. How can you not fall in love with that sweet face? Their beautiful, almond-shaped eyes reflect the intelligence that this dog is known to exhibit. On the subject of eyes, all Alaskan Malamutes have eyes of various shades of brown, unlike the blue-eyed Siberian Huskies they are often mistaken for.
Now that we know more about this breed, let’s talk about training and socializing your Malamute.
Temperament, Training, and Socialization
Alaskan Malamutes can be patient, loyal, friendly, and affectionate, though you must train and socialize your puppy early. Here’s what you’ll need to know about training and socializing your Alaskan Malamute puppy.
Malamutes are highly intelligent but independent and willful, to the point of being stubborn. Obedience training will ensure your puppy doesn’t grow up to be pushy with children and other pets or dominant over adults he doesn’t respect.
Socializing an Alaskan Malamute will depend on its environment. They are pack dogs and generally get along with fellow Malamutes, but they will take a little more work with strange dogs. As with most other dogs, it is vital that they learn to socialize with other dogs at an early age.
Malamutes have an instinct to dig, so it’s almost impossible to train them not to. Your fence should continue into the ground to prevent damage or an escaped dog. Redirect the digging behavior to a safe, designated spot where he can dig. Exercise and play with your Malamute to redirect excess energy into something productive and fun, but consider the weather when exercising your dog. Keep your pup as cool as Joe Cool!
Health, Care, and Living Requirements
Your new puppy is not just a fluffy companion but a living, eating, shedding machine. Here are a few additional considerations when caring for an Alaskan Malamute:
Malamutes shed often, so brush your Malamute daily with a pin brush and metal comb. Check for mats, which can harbor fungus and hot spots, which can result in infection. Twice a year, Malamutes will perform a heavy coat shed (also known as blowing their coat), typically around spring and fall, so add an undercoat rake to the grooming regimen twice a year. Brushing not only keeps them looking tidy—removing the excess fur helps keep them cool as well.
With regular brushing, pet Malamutes can go up to six to eight weeks without needing a bath. Use conditioner in moderation to keep that coat soft and silky, and trim your pup’s nails regularly. Consistent and attentive grooming will keep this bright, dignified dog healthy and happy!
Hot weather is the Malamute’s enemy. Remember that they were bred to haul loads in freezing temperatures. Their thick coats can make it challenging to regulate their body temperature in warmer weather. This is not to say they cannot be in warm climates—instead, keep in mind that they should not be left outdoors too long in the heat, and you should keep them indoors as much as possible during the summer with plenty of water and brushing.
So, while Alaskan Malamutes may not be the best choice if you live in a warmer climate, they can still thrive with the proper care and attention.
Exercise and play are crucial for your pet Malamute, as they were bred to work hard. As such, life as a family dog can challenge his hard-working lineage. Hiking, running, and even agility training are good ways to challenge your pup’s physical and mental abilities and keep his weight in check. This also allows you to bond with him!
Finally, as with all breeds, some health concerns should be monitored throughout the Malamute’s life. While they are a relatively healthy breed, they are potentially prone to some common conditions, such as:
Hip and elbow dysplasia is a condition that can result in painful joints. This can occur during the growth stage in dogs and may not manifest until much later.
- Hypothyroidism is a hormonal disorder that can result in weight gain, no matter how active the dog is.
- Bloat occurs in dogs with deep, narrow chests. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists and fills with gas, resulting in loss of blood supply to the stomach and pain. This can be avoided by slowing their meal intake or avoiding exercise after meals.
Routine veterinarian visits and regular vaccinations will not only keep your dog healthy but also help monitor any health concerns unique to your dog’s breed. Pet insurance is widely available and recommended, as it’ll help with medical costs and take some worry off your mind. A healthy dog is a happy dog!
Alternate Breeds
If you’ve read up to this point, it means you’ve been seriously considering a Malamute. Thanks for sticking with us! If you’re still on the fence about the breed, don’t worry—we want to ensure you find a dog that fits you well. Consider these similar dogs:
- The Siberian Huskie, Samoyed, and Bernese Mountain Dog are similar to Alaskan Malamutes and thrive in cooler climates.
- The Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever are some of the most popular breeds perfect for families.
- A German Shepherd or Boxer is a robust and powerful dog that will tirelessly love and protect your family.
- For those living in apartments, a Basset Hound or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a great companion for smaller living spaces.
- For those with allergies, a hybrid such as a Bernadoodle or Goldendoodle is an excellent blend of low-shedding genetics and family fun!
No matter what breed you’re interested in, Infinity Pups will work with you to ensure you are matched with the right puppy to bring home. We will never work with a puppy mill, and all puppies adopted through us are guaranteed to be in good health when you take them home.
Contact us today, and let us help you find your next four-legged friend!
How Infinity Pups Can Help
Whether your heart is set on a Boxer or you’re still browsing your puppy options, we’d love to help!
At Infinity Pups, we aim to match you with a puppy that is perfect for you and your family.
Our puppies are health-guaranteed and always come from reputable breeders.
Browse our available puppies and find the right furry friend that brings joy and companionship to you and your family!
