Alaskan Malamute is a very beautiful dog, energetic and agile. For such a dog you need a very active owner who will be ready to spend a sufficient amount of time with his friend, studying with him and practicing.
Malamute Alaskan: Description
Malamute is a beautiful arctic dog. Initially, it was intended for harnessing. However, at present, dogs of this breed have become the favorite pets of a large number of dog breeders. Alaskan Malamute even received the nickname "snowy" or "northern train." But this dog can adapt to the most difficult conditions of the north, where eternal winter, snow and frost reign. Malamutes can drag sleds with people or a cart with luggage for several kilometers. This breed is considered very ancient among sled dogs. And the name of this species came from the name of one of the tribes in Alaska.
Alaskan Malamute is an incredibly friendly, hardy, strong and sociable dog that needs attention from a person. The breed stands out for its amazing intellect and strong obstinacy, which determines its desire to always dominate.
Malamute is considered a working dog. Physical activity and work - this is the norm for a dog of this breed, without them, the animal can turn into a stupid, limp and lazy creature. If you decide to get yourself such a dog, then in his face you will find devotion, love, good nature. For those who are looking for a true faithful friend, Alaskan Malamute will be good options, but do not expect obedience and humility from the dog.
Differences between Husky and Malamute
Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute have some external similarities, which is why they are sometimes confused. However, in appearance, these similarities end. It must be said that the Alaskan Malamute differs from the wonderful Husky by its too stubborn character and great stamina. Husky are also able to be in a harness, but they will not be able to drag the load for a long time.
Malamute has a slightly larger size, and at the same time he is a slower dog, but on the other hand such an animal can do the hardest work. This breed is the largest of all sledding species, which is explained by strong muscles and powerful bones. Undoubtedly, both breeds are good. Alaskan Malamute and Husky, the difference between which is obvious, tolerate the cold well due to its coat.
An interesting fact is that malamute is hardy in cold conditions, but in the heat it feels extremely uncomfortable. Therefore, they require more thorough care at such a time. This feature is explained very simply. The reason for this is the thick coat and undercoat of the animal. However, falling into its usual environment, Malamute can tirelessly slowly run away day and night. In this case, the animal will not show signs of fatigue.
Breed history
Alaskan Malamute (photos are given by us in the article) has its own interesting history. As we mentioned earlier, the breed got its name thanks to the maleots that inhabited the coast of Alaska. The people were very hardworking. The ancestors of modern Malamutes were very strong, powerful and well-groomed animals with good thick coat. They were infinitely loyal to their masters, worked in teams and helped carry cargo (boats).
At the very beginning of the last century, Alaska was struck by the gold rush. This event quite favorably influenced the further development of the breed. Demand for animals of this breed began to grow.
An incredible number of gold prospectors overwhelmed the land of Alaska in search of gold. Many died before they reached the place. Only those who used the teams of Alaskan Malamutes managed to achieve the goal. This historical fact is even reflected in the adventure novels of the famous Jack London.
The number of malamutes grew, but at the same time, negative aspects of this demand appeared. Gold diggers tried to randomly cross a variety of breeds with malamutes in order to obtain an animal with even greater endurance and speed. Such crazy experiments led to the fact that the number of purebred dogs was reduced to a few litters.
Then the "gold rush" was replaced by sports. Americans loved tobogganing and began to spend money and time on restoring the purity of the breed. After all, only real and purebred animals can win races. Good results were achieved by 1926. By this time, it was possible to significantly increase the number of purebred animals. Since then, breeding of purebred dogs began.
And in 1935, the breed Alaskan Malamute was recognized around the world, its own club was created and standards were published. However, the Second World War led to the fact that only thirty purebred dogs remained. The reason for this was the people themselves, who left the dogs to die of hunger. Regular measures to restore the breed began after the war. And it was only in the sixties of the last century that an increase in population was achieved. Already in the 1970s, there were a lot of Malamutes throughout Europe. And now the breed occupies the eighteenth place among the most popular in the world. In 2010, Malamute even became an honorary symbol of America.
Breed characteristics
The Alaskan Malamute, the characteristic of which is given by us in the article, has gained such popularity due to its friendliness and goodwill. Such a dog loves to be in the spotlight. For this reason, the animal is very suitable for large families with children. It will always play the role of a nanny and play with the kids.
Although the Alaskan Malamute (photos are given in the article) is very attached to its owners, it will certainly require reciprocity from the person. This breed is a flock, and therefore needs a family. And it doesn’t matter which family it is: human or canine. For malamute, in no case is the content in the aviary suitable. If the dog is deprived of communication, it quickly closes, and you will forever lose its trust, respect and love.
Malamutes have their own peculiarity. Animals of this breed do not focus on one host. If you offend him at least once, then the dog, having lost confidence in you, will quickly switch to another person. It’s even difficult to say whether this is betrayal by the animal or not. It’s just that the Malamutes quickly get bored with monotonous actions. For example, if a dog is given a daily task to bring slippers, then he will negatively accept such requests and consider this disrespect.
It is because of such nuances that beginners are not recommended to purchase a dog such as Alaskan Malamute. The breed is characterized in such a way that in the absence of proper experience in communication and raising dogs, beginners will make mistakes that are unacceptable for these animals.
Stubbornness makes training and training much more difficult, although natural curiosity and intelligence make it possible for Malamutes to remember any commands the first time. The dog can even fulfill your desires a couple of times, but nothing more. She will get tired of it very quickly.
Is Malamute a good guard?
If you are attracted by the impressive size of the breed and you decide to get yourself such a pet for protection, then you are deeply wrong. The fact is that external strength and power are very deceiving. A dog never uses them against humans. She is not able to show aggression. This is explained by natural kindness and friendliness. Malamute will never attack someone who is dangerous to you. And to all your guests the dog will be extremely good-natured. The only thing the animal can scare is its size.
Of course, there are exceptions when puppies of Alaskan Malamute, having suffered psychological trauma, become aggressive. Experienced breeders do not advise taking such an animal. It is unlikely to be able to cope with such a problem on their own. It will require the work of specialists.
Breed standard
Alaskan Malamute is a mobile, powerful dog. She has a strong build, deep chest and compact body, the coat is very thick, with a dense and soft undercoat. The height of the males varies from 60 to 63 centimeters, and the bitches - from 57 to 59 centimeters. The weight of the animal is 35-38 kg.
The head of the dog should be powerful and wide, which reflects the level of intelligence. The muzzle of the animal is voluminous, the ears are triangular and erect. The dog’s eyes should be almond-shaped, but small in size. The dog’s neck is slightly curved, which makes it more graceful. The back is straight and muscular. But the tail should curl.
Wool is the main distinguishing feature. Since this is a northern breed, a thick undercoat was conceived by nature. And for greater waterproofness, the coat is always a little oily. The color of the animal can be from a light gray tint to black and white, sometimes even blue.
Maintenance and care
Malamute needs careful care. Dogs of this breed are very fond of water, so swimming is their favorite pastime for them. Since malamute has a chic thick coat, water procedures for him in hot weather are simply necessary. However, there are some features that should be known to the owners of such pets. It will be about the color of animals. The fact is that dark and light spots should be washed with different detergents. This is due primarily to the fact that light areas of the coat are more dirty, and dark ones may lose color depth due to the wrong shampoo. After bathing, the wool should be washed well with detergent and dried, otherwise it just rolls up. Drying can take an entire hour, because you also need to comb the hair at the same time.
In spring and autumn, dogs begin to molt. During these periods, animal care should be more thorough. Every day you will have to comb out the undercoat, otherwise tangles will form.
In addition, care for malamute includes clipping of claws, which are very sharp and long in representatives of this breed. The eyes of dogs are rubbed once a week, and their ears are cleaned at least once a month. You always need to track the discharge from the nose, this is a very important indicator.
Malamutes love to dig holes, even if kept in an apartment, they may try to dig a floor. For animals, this is not even entertainment, but rather instinct. It is impossible to wean them from such an occupation, therefore, the best place of detention is a summer house or a house.
The apartment is not very suitable for Malamutes, as they are very freedom-loving, mobile and active. For them, limited space is a disaster. Large dog sizes are incompatible with our apartments, Malamutes will unintentionally destroy everything around them. For such a large animal, a large space is needed.
How to choose a puppy?
If you decide to get a dog, you need to know how to choose puppies of Alaskan Malamute. Of course, you should not buy a baby somewhere in the market, this is simply unacceptable. You need to contact the nursery of Alaskan Malamutes, where you can look at a potential candidate. Be sure to pay attention to his behavior: the puppy should be cheerful, active, eat well. Outwardly, the baby should look healthy, its fur should be thick and shiny. Also pay attention to the ears and eyes. Be sure to check for vaccinations in the animal. The most common problem of this breed is the inversion of the stomach. Also, the owners should have certificates on the parasite run.
We have already mentioned all the virtues that Alaskan Malamute possesses. Knitting animals plays a huge role in the heredity of puppies. If there is an opportunity, then you should definitely get acquainted with the baby's parents. Check pedigree and rewards. Puppies are a reflection of their parents. Do not take the first baby offered to you. Better spend a little time, but watch all puppies. It is important that the animal does not have overt or covert aggression. It is good if a spark of love and understanding runs between you and the baby. This is the only way you can get a true friend and companion.
Puppies cost
It should be noted that the prices for puppies in different regions may vary. So how much does Alaskan Malamute cost? Moscow in this regard is the most expensive city. Here, the cost of the animal ranges from ten to twelve thousand rubles for a baby without a pedigree. If you want to have a malamute with a pedigree, then a puppy will cost you from fifteen to thirty thousand rubles. The most expensive are considered individuals with titled parents who were winners of prestigious exhibitions. The cost of such an elite puppy will start at thirty thousand rubles.
Malamute training
As for education and training, it’s worth immediately recalling the stubbornness of the Alaskan Malamute and its desire to dominate everything. You need to start the educational process from the first days of the appearance of a puppy in your house. Immediately we advise you to have patience and endurance, because the matter will not be easy. To bring it to the end, it will take many difficulties.
You need to understand that Malamute is an accumulation of enthusiasm and energy. This is a curious dog, which grasps everything on the fly, if it is interesting to her. But she quickly gets bored. Therefore, you must become a leader for her. You always need to remember the special temperament of the animal and try not to put pressure on it.
Remember from the first days that your little puppy will soon become a big dog. If you do not resist his charm and affection at the very beginning and allow, for example, to sleep with you in bed, then do not count on the fact that, having matured, the dog will be able to unlearn this habit. Rather, you will leave the sofa or bed than you will be able to move your friend out of there.
We have already mentioned that malamute is a flocking creature, it needs a leader. The owner must become not only a friend, but also a leader. In this case, you should respect the animal so that it will trust you.
Malamute is a very smart dog. She herself will think and evaluate the situation, deciding whether to obey her or not. Therefore, you always need to control her behavior. You can not let her down even minor petty faults. To curb the indefatigable temperament of the animal is possible only with the help of work and physical activity. To make everyone feel good, Malamute should be burdened with work, in which the owner himself will also participate. It can be active games with animals, long walks, hiking and even picnics.
Malamute factory reviews
If you want to have a big, good friend, then Alamaskan Malamute will certainly suit you. Reviews of inexperienced breeders are sometimes struck by ignorance of the breed. Some people find the dog stupid because she refuses to carry out any commands. However, this is not at all true. On the contrary, a smart animal evaluates the situation. And if he does not see the point of doing something, he will not fulfill your desires. The dog needs motivation. Connoisseurs are well aware of such a character trait of malamute as obstinacy, and are able to cope with such a problem. According to breeders, this kind and intelligent animal breed is the best friend for humans. However, at present, a lot of dogs have been bred that do not meet the standards, but they have a long beautiful coat. Connoisseurs do not advise purchasing such animals, since uncontrolled mating leads to poor health of dogs. You do not want to buy a fluffy toy, but a good healthy friend.