Alaskan Malamute: The Oldest Sled Dog Breed

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Ranked #1,087 in Animals, #25,916 overall

The Alaskan Malamute

The incredible Alaskan Malamute is the oldest of the sled dog breeds. Even though this beautiful breed is very popular and much loved, for the last 2000- t0 3000 years they have not been used much as family pets, but rather for the purpose of hunting and packing. There ability to withstand the cold, work hard and their great determination has made them great sled dogs.

A Brief History 

With the ability to travel long distances and withstand freezing temperatures, the Alaskan Malamute was highly popular and valuable during the Klondike Gold Rush. During this time other dog breed that could tolerate the cold weather were brought to Alaska to use as sled dogs. Mixed breeding began and the Alaskan malamute was nearly wiped out. To find an original breed, one would have to travel far from populated areas. Milton and Eva Seeley along with others began programs to save the original breed. It is because of their efforts the breed survives today.

Characteristics of the Alaskan Malamute 

Alaskan Malamutes weight between 85 and 100 pounds and have a height between 22 and 26 inches at the shoulders. Female Malamutes are smaller than the males. They have a durable, dense, double coat and their tail curls over their back. Their nose and legs are often white and they have either a light or a dark mask. The remaining coat can be shades of white, white and black, sable, wolf sable, wolf gray or red.

Alaskan Malamute Temperment 

Alaskan Malamutes are highly intelligent and very loyal dogs. They are good with children that know how to play with a large dog breed and are affectionate to their families, being most loyal to their master. They need firm and controlled training and socialization with both people and other dogs.

Male Malamutes are often harder to housetrain than are females. Males tend to be more stubborn and dominate. Malamutes love to eat and will scarf down whatever is handed to them to eat. Their feedings should be controlled to prevent over-weight and bloat. They like to feel as if they are part of the family and when feeling left out, they can become destructive.

Alaskan Malamutes Need Lots of Room 

This breed needs room and they like to roam, whatever they think is their territory. An apartment is not an ideal home for an Alaskan malamute. A big fenced yard is recommended, however this breed likes to dig and may dig its way out. Exercise is a must, but be sure not to over work them on hot days, make sure there is plenty of shade and water available all the time.

Alaskan Malamute Health issues 

Some of the health issues with Alaskan Malamutes include Bloat, Hip Dysplasia, Posterior Sub Capsular Cataracts, Dwarfism, Coat Funk, Hypothyroidism and Heat Stroke. The average lifespan for an Alaskan Malamute is between 12 and 15 years.

Alaskan Malamute on CafePress 

Got Snow? Sticker (Oval)

Got Snow? Sticker (Oval)

From: The Doggy Mall

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Alaskan Malamute Sticker (Oval)

Alaskan Malamute Sticker (Oval)

From: 1000 Goldens Dog Shop

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Malamute FAQ2 Sweatshirt

Malamute FAQ2 Sweatshirt

From: Den Of The Dog

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by cowgirljess

Howdy everyone. I am Jessica a 24 year old stay at home mommy and I love it. My household consists of me, my man and our awsome two year old son Ethan... (more)

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