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Alaskan Malamutes are hardworking, devoted dogs that love being around their family. Known for their friendly, affectionate nature and stunning good looks, they make an amazing companion for active, outdoorsy families.
Bred to pull heavy sleds over harsh, snowy terrains, Alaskan Malamutes (Malamutes or Mals for short) are big, fluffy powerhouses with a keen eye for adventure. They love running, working, playing, and are always looking for their next challenge to conquer.
Without enough exercise and stimulation in their life, Malamutes become bored, restless, and very destructive. If you want to keep your sofa in one piece and your walls free from teeth marks, you need to give these pooches plenty of daily activities and extra long walks. They’re a perfect hiking partner and will happily carry your backpack for you too – winner!
Once they’ve got their fill of fun, Mals are pretty content to relax in front of the TV, but don’t expect them to sit quietly. They’re known for their operatic ‘awoos’, and love to chat with their owners using all sorts of funny sounds. However, despite being a vocal breed, they rarely bark. This, combined with the fact they’re super welcoming to anyone they meet, means Malamutes are lousy watchdogs. The only thing that’ll deter an intruder is their imposing size and wolfish appearance.
Along with singing, another favourite pastime for the Alaskan Malamute is digging. Whether it’s an escape route under the back garden fence, or a bunch of holes on the lawn, these mischievous pups love to get their paws muddy.
Although Mals are super smart, they have an independent streak that makes them seriously stubborn and wilful. Want an eager-to-please dog? You won’t find it here. They like to think for themselves and will decide whether or not the reward is worth the effort. Training can be a real challenge, so they’re not for the faint-hearted. They need a confident owner that’ll take charge and establish the pecking order.
As they thrive on human companionship, Malamutes can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for long periods. This causes a great deal of distress and can lead to some unwanted behaviours.
As with all dogs though, early socialisation and consistent training is key to raising a confident and well-mannered pooch. So, if you’re looking for a big dog with an even bigger personality, the Alaskan Malamute could be the breed for you.
They’re both fluffy, efficient, hardworking dog breeds that originated in Arctic regions to pull sleds, but what’s the difference? Alaskan Malamutes are a lot bigger than the light and nimble Husky. This is because they were bred to pull heavy loads over long distances, compared to Huskies that were bred to pull lighter loads at faster speeds. Mals have a longer course coat, and don’t have a piercing blue gaze like a lot of Huskies. Both are super friendly and affectionate towards people, and share a love of running, however Malamutes can be more difficult to train.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Super friendly with everyone | Needs vigorous physical and mental exercise |
| Strong and hardworking | Strong-willed and stubborn |
| Good with children | Very vocal with howling and singing |
| Intelligent | High prey drive |
| Not known to bark | Can be destructive if left alone or not exercised enough |
| Great for experienced, active owners | Famous for being escape artists |
| Heavy shedding | |
| Potential for dog aggression towards dogs of the same sex |
Yes, they make a wonderful canine companion, but only for the right family. They’re loving, loyal, affectionate dogs that thrive on being part of their human pack. However, they need constant exercise, company, and stimulation, which might be difficult to provide if you’re already juggling a busy household. Alaskan Malamutes suit families who are highly active, lead an outdoor lifestyle, and are dedicated to giving their pooch a life that lets their natural instincts shine. Due to their sheer size and strength, they’re not the best pet for the elderly, vulnerable, or infirm.
Yes, Malamutes are generally patient and affectionate towards children. However, they’re very rambunctious and bouncy as puppies, and lean towards rough play. This can be problematic if there are young children in the home, as they might get knocked over, injured, or hurt by an overexcited Mal. They’re generally better suited to households with older children and teens.
You should always teach children how to properly interact with dogs, regardless of breed. This includes no pulling, smacking, poking, or disturbing them while they’re eating and sleeping. Great care should also be taken when introducing dogs and children, making sure to never leave little ones unsupervised no matter how well trained your pooch is.
Maybe. Malamutes are pack dogs, so if they’re well socialised from a young age, they typically get on with other dogs in the home, but unknown dogs are a different story. There’s potential for Mals to show aggression towards dogs of the same sex, so early socialisation is key. Due to their strong predatory instincts, they’re probably not the best furry friend for cats and other small pets.
Introducing new animals into the pack should always be managed carefully. Remember, every Alaskan Malamute is unique, so monitor their body language, provide space and reward good behaviour.
We all want our dogs to live long, happy, healthy lives, so it’s important you know how to look after a Malamute properly. From tasty nutritious meals to exercise, training and grooming, we’ve got it covered.
A lot! When fully grown, these big boys and girls need a minimum of 2 hours of exercise a day. They were bred to pull heavy loads across snow and ice, so they have strength, power, and endurance. Running is hardwired into their DNA, so a quick walk around the block won’t cut it.
While you don’t need to live in the Alaskan wilderness to meet their exercise needs, they still need plenty of opportunity to run, explore, and freely express themselves – but it should be done in a secure environment. These are independent thinkers with a very strong prey drive, and obeying the recall command can be hit or miss. Ensure their safety – as well as the wildlife around them – by going to an enclosed area or keeping them on a long lead.
Mental stimulation is also crucial for the clever Mal, but they need more than just a plush toy to play with. They’re working dogs down to the bone, and are happiest when they’re given a job to do or a challenge to conquer. Let them shine by incorporating canine sports into their exercise routine, such as weight pulling, bikejoring, backpacking, and tracking.
After a full day of fun, they’ll happily cuddle up on the couch and relax with the family. After all, a tired Mal is a happy Mal. However, if they don’t get the exercise they need, they’ll most definitely let you know their frustration with excessive howling, chewing through furniture, and digging up the garden.
The Malamute’s thick coat means they can easily overheat, so walk them when it’s cooler during the summer months, such as earlier in the morning and later in the afternoon.
Malamutes are smart cookies, but this can be their downfall – they’re often too clever for their own good! They’re independent thinkers and won’t obey a command for the sake of pleasing you. Being the hardwired workers they are, there needs to be a point to everything they do.
They’re also not ashamed to throw temper tantrums, howling at the top of their lungs if they don’t get their own way. All of this can make training a real challenge, and it’s why Alaskan Malamutes aren’t a great choice for first time pet parents.
However, if you know what you’re in for and are prepared to put in the work, training your Malamute can be a rewarding experience. You just need a bucketload of patience, unwavering consistency, and plenty of paw-sitivity from the get go! Attending puppy, obedience, and socialisation classes can also help raise a well-mannered Mal.
Unleash your pup’s potential with these Malamute training tips.
1. Be positive. Always use positive reinforcement by rewarding good behaviour with lots of praise and delicious treats, such as this high protein Baltic Beef Jerky.
2. Establish who’s top dog. Mals will absolutely try to be alpha, so it’s important you’re a confident leader that’s firm but fair in your training approach. Make sure you set and consistently enforce boundaries from day one, as this will help them understand their position in the pecking order and reduce the risk of them becoming dominant and unruly.
3. Make them wait for their food. This is a good way to establish yourself as leader of the pack and build respect between you and your Malamute.
4. Socialise, socialise, socialise! Even though Alaskan Malamutes are typically friendly with everyone, they’re a powerful breed that needs to be socialised from an early age so they grow up to be polite and respectful. Expose them to new people, children, dogs, animals, smells, and situations from an early age to help them become calm and confident canines.
5. Be consistent. Mals will pick up bad habits as easily as they learn good ones, so consistency is key, along with making sure the household is using the same commands.
6. Dispel the digging. Malamutes don’t care about your pretty flower beds or perfect lawn, so get a sandpit or carve out an area of the garden where they can dig without being destructive.
7. Focus on lead training. Learning to walk nicely on a lead is essential, as these dogs have a high prey drive and a deep desire to run, and shouldn’t be let off-lead in open areas. Start indoors where there are fewer distractions, and gradually move to busier environments as they become more comfortable. Due to their strength, you should also invest in a heavy duty harness that allows for safe outdoor adventures.
8. Work on recall, but don’t rely on it. Malamutes have a super high prey drive and a deep, instinctual desire to run, so recall won’t always work. Even still, it’s important to teach these headstrong dogs the command and to work on their obedience. Use a long-line lead and some tempting treats to (kind of) master the art of recall.
9. Give them work to do. Bred to pull sleds across icy tundras, this breed needs a purpose outside of being a pet. Try activities like canicross (running with your dog), bikejoring (biking with your dog pulling), or simply giving them a backpack to carry on hikes. This not only burns off energy but it keeps them mentally engaged.
10. Mix things up. Mals can get bored easily, so try different training exercises to keep them on their toes. Puzzles, hide-and-seek games, and obstacle courses are a good way to freshen up training.
11. Embrace the howl. Alaskan Malamutes rarely bark, but they have the voice of an angel (or devil depending on how you look at it!) and are very vocal. This can be disruptive to your everyday life, so teach them the ‘talk’ command where they’re rewarded for howling on cue. It’s a cute and clever party trick to show guests if nothing else!
12. Be patient with their separation anxiety. While they should never be left alone for hours on end, you can help your Malamute be more comfortable with their own company by gradually increasing the amount of time you're away from home. Start with small increments (e.g., 5-10 minutes) and make sure they have a toy or puzzle to keep them busy.
Alaskan Malamutes have a super thick, dense double coat that needs daily attention. The topcoat is thick and coarse, while the undercoat is soft, woolly, and can grow two inches deep.
While these luscious locks are part of the Malamute charm, there is a downside – heavy shedding throughout the year, and even more so during spring and autumn when they blow their coats. Expect hair absolutely everywhere – your clothes, your floor, your furniture, even your food! You really can’t be too houseproud if you decide to get a Mal.
Here are some grooming tips to ensure your Malamute looks marvellous all year round.
There are several Alaskan Malamute colours to choose from; black and white, grey and white, sable and white, silver and white, red and white, seal and white, blue and white, agouti and white, and pure white. The breed standard states they should all have white markings, and the only solid colour allowed is the all white Alaskan Malamute. The most rare Alaskan Malamute colouring is red and white. Mals also always have brown, almond-shaped eyes, and will never have blue eyes like some Huskies.
Properly looked after, loved and cared for, the Alaskan Malamute lifespan is between 11 and 14 years. However, like a lot of breeds, they’re prone to a few hereditary health conditions.
Healthy Malamutes should be seen by a vet at least once a year, with senior dogs (seven years and older) needing more frequent visits. Monitor your pooch regularly and ensure they’re getting what they need for a healthy and happy lifestyle.
Feeding your Malamute a well-balanced diet that’s tailored to their size and medical needs is an essential part of being a responsible dog owner. From helping their coat stay shiny to maintaining healthy joints, the food you give them is so im-paw-tant!
The amount you feed your Mal will depend on a number of factors, such as whether they’re a puppy or an adult, if you’re using dry food, wet food or a mix, their activity levels, and whether they’ve been neutered or spayed.
It’s best to feed full grown Alaskan Malamutes 2 times a day. They shouldn’t be free fed, as this can lead to overeating and obesity. As these dogs are prone to bloating, it’s best to use a slow feeder bowl to help prevent these pooches from guzzling their food down too quickly.
Mals are known to be possessive over their food, so ensure they’re given space and aren’t approached by children or other animals while eating.
You'll find a handy feeding calculator at the bottom of every product page here at Pooch & Mutt, helping you identify how much of our health-led recipes are right for the age, size and weight of your dog. Take our quick quiz to find your pooch’s perfect food!
Feed a balanced diet
Choose a high-quality, vet recommended dog food that meets your Alaskan Malamute’s nutritional needs, and consider adding natural supplements to their diet such as Salmon Oil to boost their physical and mental health.
Go high protein
Due to their high energy levels, Mals benefit from high protein dog food, which is good for optimal muscle growth, immune strength, and coat health.
Prevent bloat
These pooches are prone to bloating, so make sure to space food and exercise an hour apart, and keep their food bowl on the floor as opposed to being elevated.
Provide lots of exercise
Malamutes are very active and need their days to be filled with vigorous exercise and lots of mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
Protect their joints
To help keep the hip and elbow dysplasia at bay, consider feeding your Malamute our Joint Care Dry Food, or add Joint Supplements to their diet as an extra preventative measure. Also, puppies should never be over exercised while they’re still developing.
Monitor weight
A healthy male Alaskan Malamute weight is around 38kg or 39kg, while a female should weigh between 33kg and 35kg. Make sure table scraps don’t become a fixture in their diet though. Mals can get rather greedy, and if they don’t get the exercise they need, they can easily pile on the pounds. Carrying this extra weight puts pressure on a dog’s joints and internal organs, reducing their quality of life.
Look after their eyes
Regular eye tests can detect early signs of cataracts, and a balanced diet rich in omega-3s (found in fish) can help support eye health.
Use a harness
Alaskan Malamutes were born to pull, so you might want to consider using a heavy duty harness instead of a collar to protect their throat. Harnesses can also help reduce pulling, and stop them from slipping out of their collar on walks. This means safer outdoor adventures with your pooch.
Take them to the vet
It might not be their favourite place in the world but regular check-ups with a vet can help identify potential health issues early on.
Always speak to your vet about the best course of action in treating health problems in your dog.
The Alaskan Malamute size is large and impressive, however some breeders have taken it upon themselves to produce even bigger dogs. While there’s no such thing as a ‘giant Alaskan Malamute’, naturally large Mals are bred together, regardless of health or temperament, resulting in ‘giant’ versions of the breed. These dogs are usually unhealthy and overpriced due to a perceived rarity. They’re more likely to have mobility issues and shorter lifespans as their bodies were never meant to be that big.
Take a look at the Alaskan Malamute’s dream home.
| Type of owner? | Highly active individuals, couples, or families with older children who spend time outdoors and have time to dedicate to exercise and training. |
| Outdoor space? | A large, secure back garden is essential, as well as access to large, enclosed outdoor areas. |
| Adaptability? | They can adapt to different living situations, but they’re not generally suited to living in apartments due to their size, energy levels, and tendency to howl. |
| Multi-pet home? | They can live with other dogs if socialised well, but they’re not generally suited to living with cats and other small pets due to their high prey drive. |
The unconditional love of an Alaskan Malamute is priceless, but there are costs to consider if you plan to own one.
Malamutes can cost anywhere between £1,200 and £2,500. The price you pay will depend on the breeder or private seller, and the pedigree of the dog. The average monthly total cost for owning a Malamute is around £120.
Set up costs
Primary vaccines in the UK cost between £40-£70 on average, but this depends where you live and the vets you choose. You’ll also need equipment such as a lead, collar, harness, dog tag (this is a legal requirement), bedding, food bowls, toys, and a crate if you’re crate training. If you decide to neuter your pup, the cost of the operation ranges from £110 to £300, and is usually done between six and 12 months old. Spaying costs can be higher and you should always talk to your vet about the best time to have this procedure done.
Ongoing costs
When it comes to food, these pooches need a high quality dog food packed with vitamins and natural ingredients. This could cost around £80-£100 per month. On top of this, you’ll also have booster vaccinations, flea and worm treatments and regular accessories like poop bags to buy.
Insurance costs
As with all dogs, it’s highly recommended to purchase Alaskan Malamute pet insurance should anything happen. The exact cost of insurance is based on your location, your dog’s age, breed, medical history and the type of cover you choose. Pet insurance prices vary wildly so always compare to get the right protection. (The average annual cost to insure a pedigree dog without any pre-existing conditions is around £403. This might sound a lot but you can’t put a price on peace of mind.)
Get to know the Alaskan Malamute even more with these tidbits and tales about one of the most famous sledding dogs!
The Alaskan Malamute’s history is as rugged and adventurous as the dog itself! They’re one of the oldest sled dog breeds in the Arctic, descending from domesticated wolf-like dogs that migrated from Siberia to Alaska across the Bering Strait more than 4,000 years ago.
These majestic pups were originally bred by native Inuit people, specifically the Mahlemut tribe in Alaska, which is how they got their name. They used their strength and endurance to haul heavy loads across some of the harshest, coldest terrains imaginable. These dogs were absolutely critical for the tribe’s survival in the Arctic, as they transported food, supplies, and even people. While not out pulling sleds, they hunted seals, protected their people from bears, and guarded livestock, demonstrating unwavering resilience and devotion to their humans.
The Mahlemut people cherished their canine companions, and early writings about this tribe always include reference to their wonderful dogs. After a full day’s work, they’d play with the children and sleep alongside the families to keep everyone warm during the freezing nights. This is what led to Alaskan Malamutes having such a friendly, affectionate temperament towards people.
During the Klondike Gold Rush in 1896, these dogs became even more valuable, as prospectors relied on them to transport goods through the frozen wilderness. However, to meet this high demand for sled dogs, Malamutes were bred with different non-native dogs, which almost saw the breed die out. Luckily, the Mahlemut people were isolated, protecting their line of dogs from crossbreeding and saving the breed from extinction.
Their popularity grew, and they were eventually recognised as a distinct breed in the 1930s. Alaskan Malamutes still retain their strong work ethic and adventurous spirit, but you’re more likely to find them accompanying their family on a leisurely hike rather than hauling cargo across icy tundras!
Before you bring a new furry friend into your life, you need to know you’re getting it from a reputable source. To help you navigate this decision, here are some essential tips for buying or adopting an Alaskan Malamute.
1. Research the breed. Malamutes are incredibly active and need copious amounts of exercise, so make sure your lifestyle is suited.
2. Ask potential breeders for references from previous customers, veterinarians, or other breeders. This will help you get an idea of their reputation and the health of their dogs.
3. Beware of scammers. A genuine seller will never ask for money upfront before seeing the dogs, and will always offer for you to see them in person before making a commitment. Also be wary if the price is significantly cheaper than other listings when you see an Alaskan Malamute for sale.
4. Always visit the breeder in person to see the mother with her Alaskan Malamutes puppies, and to check the environment. A responsible breeder or seller will never release the pups before they’re eight weeks’ old.
5. Watch out for people who breed multiple breeds at once. This is a sign they might not have the expertise on Malamutes and don’t prioritise their dogs’ health.
6. A reputable breeder will provide a health guarantee for your puppy, including paperwork about their lineage, vaccinations and microchipping.
When adopting a Malamute, research the shelter to ensure they’re a reputable rescue organisation, and meet with their adoption specialist to discuss your lifestyle, needs and dog ownership experience. Mals in shelters may have complex medical conditions or be quite senior, so you’ll need to ensure you have the time, love and dedication to give them a happy fur-ever home.
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