In 2019, a pair of Alaskan Malamutes called Saffron and Kira, were seen in The Great Alaskan Race. They played the roles of real-life dogs, Balto and Togo, in an adventure that recalls a 1925 diphtheria outbreak in Nome, Alaska. With the city’s port blocked by ice and the weather too bad for planes, the only way to get medicine into the remote town was overland using a team of sled dogs. With several years of experience as tourist sled dogs, Saffron and Kira were well-equipped for their role which involved mushing for up to 20 hours a day.
Alaskan Malamute
Meet the Alaskan Malamute, a furry giant with a heart as vast as the Alaskan wilderness, a majestic appearance, and a delightful blend of strength and charm.
Country of Origin
Alaska
Breed Group
Northern Working Dogs (Spitz)
Height
Male 22-26 In
Female 22-26 In
Weight
Male 70-95 Ib
Female 70-95 Ib
Life Span
10-14 years
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In a Nutshell
When it comes to the Alaskan Malamute (“Mal” or “Molly”, if you like) – think of them as your ultimate adventure buddy and your four-legged snowplow, all rolled into one fluffy package! Yet, beneath that brawny exterior lies a heart of gold, as Malamutes are known for their affectionate and sociable nature. Alaskan Malamutes are dedicated companions that require quite a bit of attention. They need lots of exercise to be happy—remember, their ancestors pulled sleds for generations! And while most pet parents can’t provide a sled, a daily run with their human or alongside a bike helps keep these energetic dogs satisfied.
Life With a Alaskan Malamute
Low (1)
High (5)
Energy level
Trainability Level
Amount of Shedding
Tendency of Barking
Exercise Needs
Kid Friendly
Pet Friendly
Looks & Personality
The Alaskan Malamute is a sight to behold. These magnificent canines are built for the harsh Arctic terrain, with a sturdy and well-proportioned frame. Their dense double coat, which comes in various shades of grey, black, sable, and red, is designed to keep them toasty in subzero temperatures. Their expressive almond-shaped eyes exude intelligence and warmth, adding a touch of mystique to their gaze. Topped off with erect, wolf-like ears and a plume-like tail that waves like a banner of pride, the Alaskan Malamute is a true masterpiece of nature’s design.
The Alaskan Malamute is as distinct in character as it is in appearance. These friendly giants are renowned for their loving and loyal nature. They form deep bonds with their human companions and often see themselves as part of the family. However, their independent streak can sometimes lead to a touch of stubbornness, so patience is key when training them. Alaskan Malamutes may not be known for their barking, but they are talkative. These dogs will howl in low notes and make “woo woo” noises that sound like they are trying to communicate with you conversationally. Over time, they may do this more or less depending on the reactions they get from it. Or, they may only do it when they want food, affection, or because they are bored.
This breed should be supervised around unfamiliar small animals, as they have a strong prey instinct. That’s why a secure fence is essential. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their thick coat, and they’ll shed quite a bit during seasonal changes, so get ready for some fur maintenance.
Vigorous exercise is a must. A large enclosed yard is vital but Alaskan Malamutes also love to hike, run, and swim with their owners while agility and obedience classes are right up their street. They also tend to behave like overgrown puppies even in later life. If bored, they can quickly cause a lot of damage to your home. And, don’t expect your Malamute to protect your property. They can look fierce but, in reality, everybody is a potential friend.
Common Health Problems
Alaskan Malamutes are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of 10-14 years, but the breed does have a few common health concerns - Hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, chondrodysplasia, idiopathic polyneuropathy, day blindness, and cataracts.
A tip from a vet
This breed is a thrifty feeder and needs less food than you might expect. However, they do tend to wolf down whatever is offered, which can lead to obesity and bloat.
A tip from a trainer
Although it can be difficult to train Malamutes for formal obedience, it is not particularly hard to train them to be well-mannered because they love to please.
Did You Know
During the Second World War, 450 Alaskan Malamutes courageously transported weapons and supplies, sniffed for mines, and helped to rescue injured soldiers.
As a dog breed with a high prey drive, the Alaskan Malamutes are more prone to digging than other dog breeds.
Based on the name, it may seem obvious that the official state dog of Alaska is the Alaskan Malamute. However, the breed did not obtain that title until 2010.
In The News
The History Behind the Breed
The Alaskan Malamute is one of the oldest sled dog breeds in the Arctic, descended from the Arctic wolf. The name Malamute comes from the Mahlemiut Inuit people who lived on Kotzebue Sound in northwest Alaska. Their dogs were bred to pull sleds, carry packs on their backs, locate seal holes in the ice, and distract polar bears on seal hunts. Later, packs of Malamutes have participated in many polar expeditions, for which they are particularly well adapted due to their tenacity, sense of direction, and excellent sense of smell. In the last decades, they have proved themselves to be civilized and good-natured in this role.
Famous Alaskan Malamute Owners
Natalie Efron, George Lucas, Judy Collins, Dom DeLuise, President Herbert Hoover, Robbie Williams, Vida Blue, Steve McQueen
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