Alaskan Malamute
A powerful, affectionate, and loyal companion with a striking wolf-like appearance. Thrives in active households and enjoys being part of family adventures and outdoor activities.
Breed Characteristics
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
63.5 cm (male)
58.5 cm (female)
WEIGHT
36–43 kg (male)
32–38 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
10–14 years
Alaskan Malamute: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance
Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Alaskan Malamute isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Alaskan Malamute's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
The Alaskan Malamute is affectionate, loyal, and sociable, often forming strong bonds with family members. This breed is typically friendly but may be independent and reserved with strangers.
Key Personality Traits
Affectionate with family, reserved with strangers
Learns quickly but can be independent
Very active, needs regular vigorous exercise
Enjoys games, playful with people
May struggle with new environments or routines
Strengths
- Strong working ability and stamina
- Loyal and affectionate with family
- Tolerant of cold weather conditions
- Intelligent and quick to learn tasks
- Social with people and other dogs
Challenges
- High exercise and activity requirements
- Prone to digging and escape attempts
- Heavy seasonal shedding and grooming needs
- Can be stubborn or independent-minded
- Not suited for hot or humid climates
Protect your Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamute are active and energetic, but they can develop hip dysplasia and cataracts. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Alaskan Malamutes are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Learns with consistency
Overall rating
Alaskan Malamutes are intelligent and capable of learning various tasks, but their independent nature can lead to stubbornness. Consistent, positive reinforcement training methods work best for this breed.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
90–120 minutes daily
recommended per day
This breed has high energy levels and requires significant daily physical exercise and mental stimulation. Long walks, play sessions, and activities like pulling or hiking are essential for their well-being.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Alaskan Malamutes are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Alaskan Malamute would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Strong-willed nature needs experienced handling and training
Apartment Living
Needs ample space and exercise, easily bored in small areas
Active Lifestyle
High stamina suits owners with energetic lifestyles and outdoor activities
Kids
Patient but strong; supervision needed around very young children
Multiple Pets
Can live with other pets but strong prey drive can cause issues
Being Left Alone
Dislikes being left alone, prone to destructive behavior if bored
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Alaskan Malamutes compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Alaskan Malamute
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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