Alaskan Malamute

Summary of Characteristics:

Temperament:

The Alaskan Malamute is a large and powerful dog that does best in the country or suburbs with lots of daily exercise. He likes the cold outdoors, but needs supervision because he loves to explore and dig. Without enough exercise or too much confinement he may become bored or destructive. Most do well with strangers but some are aggressive around other dogs or small animals. He needs firm obedience training from an early age, as he can be very dominent. With good training and supervision he can make a fine pet.

Physical Features:

He weighs 75-110 pounds and stands 23-25 inches. He has a long, course coat and a dense undercoat. He needs brushing at least twice a week, daily when he is shedding. His coat may be black, black with creamy undercoat, black with red undercoat, wolf gray, silver or red. He has white markings on his face, neck, chest and legs.

Health Issues

Alaskan Malamutes are susceptible to hip dysplasia, skin disorders, thyroid problems, and achondrodysplasia, a congential dwarfism.

Read more about Alaskan Malamutes:

Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds: Profiles of More than 150 Breeds This is an excellent, highly rated book that discusses each breed's physical and personality traits, suitability as a pet, information on each breed's vulnerability to specific health problems, longevity, exercise needs, compatibility with children, and more.

New Encyclopedia of the Dog Another great book that describes 450 different dog breeds including rare breeds and experimental breeds like the Labradoodle. Lots of photos.