What Is an Alaskan malamute?
Alaskan Malamutes are genuinely a prized dog breed because of their loyalty functionality to owners.
Theyre oftentimes mistaken for Siberian Huskies because of their physical similarities, but are actually different if you take a look at their size, personality, and overall structure. Alaskan malamutes are describes by dog experts as having a quiet and subtle temperament once they reach maturity.
Also known as Canis lupus familiaris, Alaskan Malamutes are bred for utilitarian uses, specifically as a sled dog. Theyre known to carry heavy loads no matter how long the distances are because of their robust physical structure. When trained efficiently, Malamutes doesnt only make great family pets but are also an ideal companion for owners who enjoy jogging, sledding, backpacking, weight pulling, and swimming.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), dogs are categorized into the following groups:
- Hound
- Herding
- Sporting
- Non-sporting
- Toy
- Terrier
- Working
The famed organization, AKC, as well as the Kennel Club of United Kingdom, distinguishes Alaskan Malamutes as one of the most dependable domestic canine breeds because of their strength and stamina when it comes to utilitarian chores.
Aside from their noted intelligence, Malamutes are preferred by owners from varying countries because of the breeds sweetness and kind disposition to their masters. Children who are old enough to play with them will surely benefit and cherish the dogs personality and companionship.
Owners of Alaskan Malamutes would like other people to know why raising such breeds is truly a fulfilling experience because of the following attributes:
- Intelligent breed
- Fun
- Loyal
- Friendly
- Loving
- Affectionate
- Subtle
- Bold
- Beautiful
- Strong
- Rugged
- Mellow
- Playful
- Easy to please
- Active
- Jovial
- Firm leadership
- Obedient
- Consistent
- Confident
- Well-mannered
- Firm
- Strong natural instinct
- Combative
- Social with other breeds
- Trainable
- Utilitarian dog
- Great pet
- Sporting breed
- Intuitive
- High-spirited
- Ideal in cold climates
- Intrepid
History of Alaskan Malamutes
Alaskan malamutes come from a long history of domestic dogs. Their origin can be traced back form Alaskan roots and are a descendant of the common Arctic wolves. They’re also described as Nordic sled dogs back in the days as Alaskan tribes used them primarily to carry heavy loads from one place to another. Such breeds also became a practical instrument in 1896 when the Klondike Gold Rush phenomena came about.
Malamutes also played a role during World War II as they were used for search and rescue campaigns in Greenland. Because of their strength, endurance, and strong instinct, the Mahlemuit Eskimos tribesmen of Alaska often bring along with them packs of Malamutes whenever they go hunting as theyre known to track large preys, even bears for that matter.
In addition, Malamutes are known to be the oldest means of transportation in Alaska and does very well in polar expeditions. Aside from their capabilities of carrying heavy loads, they also have an indisputable sense of direction, tenacity, and sense of smell which gives travelers the peace of mind they need when traversing the harsh and cold journey towards their destination.
The ideal dog
The standard weight of male Alaskan Malamutes comes in at 85 pounds, although it can exceed at a whopping 100 pounds. Female Malamutes on the other hand, would weigh at about 75 pounds. Their overall physicality structures them to have a double coating the undercoat having a woolly and oily texture while the outer coat is long, coarse, and stances perfectly off the body.
Malamutes are blessed with a gray or a black and white shade, often fluffy and furry and are robust in nature. They can be a bit challenging to train, but once they learn to adapt to the owners command, they’re genuinely loyal. They’re also active companions to owners who are on the athletic side as they can swim and jog.
However, there will come a time where Alaskan Malamutes can contract diseases such as cataracts, epilepsy, skin ailments, kidney disorder, and dysplasia. As an owner, one needs to keep an eye out for these diseases to ensure the longevity of the breed. Shedding is also a natural occurrence to Malamutes, so one doesn’t necessarily need to panic if he or she finds several furs in some parts of the home. They typically shed all year round, which means that the owner needs to tend to them closely during the process.
Because of the Alaskan malamutes distinguished temperament among other breeds, dependability in helping owners carry heavy loads, loyalty, and companionship, they have been named as the official dog in the state of Alaska. So if you’re looking for a fun and frolic kind of breed, you should go for this type of dog.