Alaskan Malamute: Breed Description

Alaskan Malamute is a very beautiful dog, energetic and mobile. For such a dog, a very active host is needed, who will be willing to spend enough time with his friend, doing with him and exercising.

Malamute Alaskan: description

Malamute is a beautiful arctic dog. Initially, it was intended for the harness. However, at present the dogs of this breed have become favorite pets of a large number of dog breeders. Alaskan Malamute even received the nickname of "snow" or "northern train". But this dog can adapt to the most difficult conditions of the north, where eternal winter, snow and frost reigns. Malamutes can carry a sledge with people or a cart with a luggage a few kilometers. This breed is considered to be 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 the person. The breed stands out with an amazing intellect and strong stubbornness, which determines its desire to always rule.

Malamute is considered a working dog. Physical stress and labor is the norm for the dog of this breed, without them the animal can turn into a stupid, weak-willed and lazy creature. If you decide to buy yourself such a dog, then in his person you will gain loyalty, love, good nature. For those who are looking for a true loyal friend, the Alaskan Malamute will be a good option, but do not expect from the dog obedience and obedience.

Differences between husky and malamute

Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute have some external similarity, which is why they are sometimes confused. However, on the exterior, these similarities end. It must be said that the Alaskan Malamute differs from the wonderful husky by its too stubborn character and great endurance. Huskies are also able to be in harness, but they will not be able to carry a load for a long time.

Malamute is a bit large, and at the same time it is a slower dog, but such an animal on the shoulder is the hardest job. This breed is the largest of all riding species, which is explained by strong muscles and a powerful backbone. Undoubtedly, both breeds are good. Alaskan Malamute and Husky, the difference between which is obvious, are well tolerated by the cold due to their wool.

Interesting is the fact that enduring malamute in cold conditions, but in the warmth, he feels extremely uncomfortable. Therefore, they require more thorough care at such a time. This feature is very simple. The reason for all - the thick coat and the undercoat of the animal. However, getting into his usual environment, the malamute can tirelessly quietly run day and night. In this case, the animal will not show signs of fatigue.

History of the breed

Alaskan Malamute (photo is shown in the article) has an interesting history. As we mentioned earlier, the breed got its name thanks to the Malemutes 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 wool. They were endlessly devoted to their masters, worked in harnesses and helped to carry loads (boats).

At the very beginning of the last century, Alaska was struck by the "gold rush". This event rather favorably influenced the further development of the breed. The demand for animals of this breed began to grow.

An incredible number of gold prospectors overflowed the lands of Alaska in search of gold. Many perished, not having time to get to the place. It was possible to reach the goal only for those who used harnesses with Alaskan malamutes. This historical fact is even reflected in the adventure novels of the famous Jack London.

The number of malamutes grew, but negative aspects of this demand also appeared. Gold prospectors have tried to randomly interbreed a variety of breeds with malamutes, in order to get the 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 a sports fever. Americans fell in love with sleigh races and began to spend money and time to restore the purity of the breed. After all, only real and thoroughbred animals can win races. Good results were achieved by 1926. By this time, it was possible to significantly increase the number of purebred animals. It was from those very days that the breeding of purebred dogs began.

And in 1935 the Alaskan Malamute breed was recognized around the world, its own club was created and standards were published. However, World War II led to the fact that there were only thirty purebred dogs left. The reason for this was the people themselves, leaving the dogs to die of hunger. The next measures to restore the breed began after the war. And only by the sixties of the last century it was possible to achieve an increase in the population. Already in the 1970s, malamutes became very numerous all over Europe. And now the breed takes the eighteenth place among the most popular in the world. In 2010, the malamute even became an honorary symbol of America.

Characteristics of the breed

Alaskan Malamute, whose characteristics are given in the article, has gained such popularity due to its friendliness and goodwill. Such a dog likes to be the center of attention. It is for this reason that the animal is very suitable for large families with children. It will always play the role of nanny and will play with the kids.

Although the Alaskan Malamute (the photo is shown in the article) and is very attached to its masters, he will certainly demand reciprocity from man. This breed is flock, and therefore needs a family. And it does not matter what kind of family it is: human or canine. For malamute, in no case will the contents in the enclosure fit. If the dog is deprived of communication, it quickly closes, and you will forever lose her trust, respect and love.

Malamutes have their own peculiarity. Animals of this breed do not fixate on one owner. If you hurt him at least once, then the dog, having lost confidence in you, will quickly switch to another person. It's even hard to say whether this is an animal betrayal or not. Just malamutes quickly get bored of monotonous actions. For example, if a dog is given a daily task to bring slippers, she will negatively perceive such requests and consider it to be disrespectful.

It is because of such nuances that beginners are not recommended to purchase such a dog as the Alaskan Malamute. Characteristics of the breed is such that, in the absence of proper experience of communication and education of dogs, beginners will make such mistakes that are unacceptable for these animals.

Stubbornness makes it difficult to train and train, although natural curiosity and intelligence allow you to memorize any command from the first time. The dog will even be able to fulfill your wishes a couple of times, but no more. Very quickly, she gets bored.

Is malamute good as a security guard?

If you are attracted to the impressive size of the breed and you decided to buy yourself such a pet for protection, then you are deeply wrong. The fact is that external power and power are very deceptive. The dog never uses them against a person. She is not capable of aggression. This is explained by natural kindness and friendliness. Malamute will never attack the one who is dangerous to you. And to all your guests the dog will be treated very kindly. The only thing an animal can scare with is its size.

Of course, there are exceptions, when puppies of the Alaskan malamute, after suffering a psychological trauma, become aggressive. Experienced breeders do not advise taking such an animal. It is unlikely that it will be possible to cope with such a problem on its 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 males varies from 60 to 63 centimeters, and the bitches vary from 57 to 59 centimeters. The weight of the animal is 35-38 kg.

The dog's head must be powerful and broad, which reflects the level of intelligence. The muzzle of the animal is voluminous, the ears are triangular and standing. The eyes of the dog should be almond shaped, but of small size. The neck of the dog is slightly curved, which makes it more graceful. The back is straight and muscular. But the tail has to curl.

Wool is the main distinguishing feature. Since we are talking about the northern breed, the nature was conceived by a thick undercoat. And for greater water resistance, wool is always a bit greasy. The color of the animal can be from light gray to black and white, sometimes even blue.

Maintenance and care

Malamute needs careful care. Dogs of this breed are very fond of water, so bathing for them is a favorite entertainment. Since malamute has a smart thick wool, water procedures for it in hot time are simply necessary. However, there are some features that should be known to the owners of such pets. It's about coloring animals. The fact is that dark and light spots should be washed with a variety of detergents. This is primarily due to the fact that the light areas of the coat are more polluted, and the dark ones can lose the color depth due to the incorrectly selected shampoo. After bathing, the coat should be thoroughly rinsed from the detergent and dried, otherwise it will simply roll down. Drying can take an hour, because you also need to comb your hair together.

In the spring and autumn, the dogs begin to molt. During these periods, care for the animal should be more thorough. Daily it is necessary to comb out the undercoat, otherwise collars will form.

In addition, care for the malamute involves cutting the claws, which are very sharp and long in the representatives of this breed. Eyes wipe dogs once a week, and ears are cleaned at least once a month. You always need to monitor the discharge from the spout, this is a very important indicator.

Malamutes love to dig holes, even if they are kept in an apartment they can try to dig the floor. For animals, this is not even entertainment, but rather an instinct. It is impossible to exclude them from such employment, therefore the best place of the maintenance there will be a summer residence or the house.

The apartment is not very suitable for malamutes, because they are very freedom-loving, mobile and active. For them, limited space is a disaster. Large sizes of dogs 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 the right puppy?

If you decide to have a dog, you need to know how to choose the right puppies of the Alaskan Malamute. Of course, do not buy a baby somewhere on the market, it's simply unacceptable. It is necessary to apply to the kennel of the Alaskan malamutes, where you can look at the potential candidate. Be sure to pay attention to his behavior: the puppy should be cheerful, active, eat well. Outwardly the baby should look healthy, his fur should be thick and shiny. Also pay attention to the ears and eyes. Be sure to check the presence of vaccinations in the animal. The most frequent problem of this breed is the inversion of the stomach. The owners should also have references on the parasite run.

We have already mentioned all the virtues that the Alaskan Malamute possesses. Animal mating plays a huge role in the heredity of puppies. If there is a possibility, it is definitely worth getting acquainted with the parents of the baby. Check the pedigree and rewards. Puppies are a reflection of their parents. Do not take the first child you suggested. It is better to spend a little time, but watch all the puppies. It is important that the animal does not have an obvious or covert aggression. Well, if between you and the baby runs a spark of love and understanding. Only in this way you will be able to acquire a true friend and companion.

Cost of puppies

I want to note that the prices for puppies in different regions may differ. So how much does the Alaskan Malamute cost? Moscow in this regard is the most expensive city. Here the cost of the animal varies from ten to twelve thousand rubles for a baby without a pedigree. If you want to have a malamute with a pedigree, then the puppy will cost you from fifteen to thirty thousand rubles. The most expensive are the individuals with titled parents who were the winners of prestigious exhibitions. The cost of such elite puppies will start from thirty thousand rubles.

Malamute training

As for education and training, it is worth recalling the stubbornness of the Alaskan malamute and his desire to dominate in everything. Begin the educational process from the very first days of the appearance of the puppy in your home. Immediately we advise you to have patience and endurance, because it will not be easy. To complete it, it will take many difficulties.

It must be understood that malamute is a conglomeration of enthusiasm and energy. This is an inquisitive dog, which grasps everything on the fly, if it interests her. But she quickly gets bored. Therefore, you must become a leader for her. Always 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 before 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, after growing up, the dog will be able to disaccustom from this habit. Rather, you will leave the sofa or bed, rather than you will be able to move your friend from there.

We have already mentioned that the malamute is a schooling creature, it needs a leader. The owner should become not only a friend, but also a leader. In this case, you should respect the animal, so that it began to trust you.

Malamute is a very clever dog. She herself will think and assess the situation, deciding whether to obey her or not. Therefore, it is always necessary to control its behavior. You can not let her down even small faults. Curb the irrepressible temperament of the animal can only be through work and physical exertion. To all was well, the malamute should be loaded with work, in which the owner himself will also participate. It can be active games with animals, long walks, hikes and even picnics.

Reviews of breeders about malamute

If you want to have a great, kind friend, then you will certainly approach Malaymut Alaskan. Reviews of inexperienced breeders sometimes amaze the ignorance of the breed. Some people consider the dog to be stupid due to the fact that she refuses to perform any commands. However, this is not at all the case. On the contrary, the intelligent animal evaluates the situation. And if there is no sense in doing something, then it will not fulfill your desires. A dog needs motivation. Experts know perfectly well about such a character trait of malamute, as stubbornness, and are able to cope with such a problem. According to breeders, this kind and intelligent breed of animals is the best friend for a person. However, at the present time there are a lot of dogs that do not meet standards, but they have long beautiful wool. Experts are not advised to acquire such animals, as uncontrolled matings lead to a deterioration in the health of dogs. You want to buy not a furry toy, but a good healthy friend.