Physical Characteristics of theAlaskan Malamute
(from the American Kennel Club
breed standard)
Head: Broad and deep, not coarse or clumsy, but in proportion to the size of the dog.
Ears: Triangular in shape and slightly rounded at the tips.
Eyes: Brown, almond shaped and of medium size.
Skull: Broad and moderately rounded between the ears.
Muzzle: Large and bulky in proportion to the size of the skull, diminishing slightly in width and depth from junction with the skull to the nose.
Neck: Strong and moderately arched.
Lips: Close fitting.
Jaws: Broad with large teeth. The incisors meet with a scissors grip.
Chest: Well developed.
Forequarters: The shoulders are moderately sloping; forelegs heavily boned and muscled. Pasterns are short and strong and slightly sloping when viewed from the side. The feet are of the snowshoe type, tight and deep, with well-cushioned pads, giving a firm, compact appearance.
Size: Desirable freighting sizes are males, 25 inches at the shoulders, 85 pounds; females, 23 inches at the shoulders, 75 pounds.
Back: Straight and gently sloping to the hips.
Tail: Well furred and has the appearance of a waving plume.
Hindquarters: The rear legs are broad and heavily muscled through the thighs; stifles moderately bent; hock joints are moderately bent and well let down.
Coat: Thick, coarse guard coat, never long and soft. The undercoat is dense, from one to two inches in depth, oily and woolly.
Color: Range from light gray through intermediate shadings to black, sable, and shadings of sable to red. White is always the predominant color on underbody, parts of legs, feet, and part of face markings.
Contents
History of the Alaskan Malamute
Named for the Mahlamuit Eskimos, the Alaskan Malamute is best known for its prowess as a sled dog. Once a vital component of the Eskimo people’s survival, the Malamute was next bred for its stamina as a sled dog before gaining worldwide popularity as a family companion.
Characteristics of the Alaskan Malamute
Energetic, playful and affectionate, the Malamute makes a wonderful pet for those committed to providing a dog with adequate activity, attention and grooming. Learn about the breed’s temperament as well as its physical characteristics and breed-specific health considerations.
Breed Standard for the Alaskan Malamute
Learn the requirements of a well-bred Alaskan Malamute by studying the description of the breed set forth in the American Kennel Club standard. Both show dogs and pets must possess key characteristics as outlined in the breed standard.
Find out about how to locate a well-bred Alaskan Malamute puppy. Discover which questions to ask the breeder and what to expect when visiting the litter. Prepare for your puppy-accessory shopping spree. Also discussed are home safety, the first trip to the vet, socialization and solving basic puppy problems.
Proper Care of Your Alaskan Malamute
Cover the specifics of taking care of your Alaskan Malamute every day: feeding for all life stages; grooming, including coat care, ears, eyes, nails and bathing; and exercise needs. Also discussed are the basics of ID and traveling safely with your dog.
Training Your Alaskan Malamute
Begin with the basics of training the puppy and adult dog. Learn the principles of house-training the Alaskan Malamute, including the use of crates and basic scent instincts. Enter Puppy Kindergarten and introduce the pup to his collar and leash, and progress to the basic commands. Find out about obedience classes and other activities.
Healthcare of Your Alaskan Malamute
By Lowell Ackerman DVM, DACVD
Become your dog’s healthcare advocate and a well-educated canine keeper. Select a skilled and able veterinarian. Discuss pet insurance, vaccinations and infectious diseases, the neuter/spay decision and a sensible, effective plan for parasite control, including fleas, ticks and worms.
Know when to consider your Alaskan Malamute a senior and what special needs he will have. Learn to recognize the signs of aging in terms of physical and behavioral traits and what your vet can do to optimize your dog’s golden years.
Step into the center ring and find out about the world of showing pure-bred dogs. Here’s how to get started in AKC shows, how they are organized and what’s required for your dog to become a champion. Also acquaint yourself with obedience trials, agility, tracking tests and sled-dog events.
Behavior of Your Alaskan Malamute
Analyze the canine mind to understand what makes your Alaskan Malamute tick. Potential problems addressed include aggression, separation anxiety, sex-related issues, chewing, digging, jumping up, barking and food-related problems.
KENNEL