5 Things to Know About Alaskan Malamutes

These powerful but friendly Arctic sled dogs are said to have a history dating back thousands of years.

Alaskan Malamute breed profile

1. Key Characteristics

  • AKC Group: Working
  • Height: 22–26 inches
  • Weight: 60–100 pounds
  • Life expectancy: 10–14 years

The Alaskan Malamute is the oldest and largest Arctic sled dog breed.

These powerful and muscular dogs aren’t built for speed but instead for endurance — pulling weight over long distances.


They have triangular ears with slightly rounded tips. The ears stand erect when the dog is alert.

The dogs’ brown, almond-shaped eyes are medium sized, and the tail is plumed and carried over the back. Their feet are large and have thick pads with fur between the toes.

The double coat features a thick and wooly undercoat and coarse outer coat. The hair is short to medium in length and longer around the neck, shoulders and back.

Colors include solid white or a number of color combinations. However, for confirmation purposes the only solid color allowable is the white and white variation. The breed club usually sets the standard, and the American Kennel Club (AKC)’s breed standard doesn’t match that of the Alaskan Malamute Club of America.

These tough but affectionate dogs thrive in colder climates.
These tough but affectionate dogs thrive in colder climates. By: Nicola Colombo (Top photo: Nicola Colombo)

2. Where They Came From

One theory states that Alaskan Malamutes accompanied the Eskimos on their journey from Siberia across the Bering Strait 4,000 years ago, and anthropological evidence places them at Cape Krusenstern around 1850 BC.

Alternatively, archaeological evidence places the sled dog’s origin between 300 and 500 years ago.

Early breeder Paul Voelker asserted this was possibly the oldest dog breed in the world to be associated with humans. He reported knowledge of bone and ivory carvings dated 12,000 to 20,000 years ago depicting the Alaskan Malamute we know today.


Considering the Eskimos traveled in harsh conditions, they presumably relied on their dogs heavily for transportation and hauling.

Alaskan Malamutes are known to howl, even though they’re generally quiet. By: kitty.green66

The American Kennel Club recognized the breed officially in 1935, and the Alaskan Malamute Club of America was formed.

The Malamute is considered a “natural breed,” as humans neither directly influenced nor designed the dog for a purpose.

The dogs were almost wiped out several times, including during:

  • The Gold Rush, when everyone needed a valuable sled dog to find their fortune
  • World War II, when a bureaucratic decision to abandon dogs on an ice floe in Antarctica and destroy it with explosives nearly prompted a soldier-led mutiny

Stewards of the breed continued to maintain the beauty, integrity and honor of the dogs and their legacy, and Alaskan Malamutes are now plentiful.

3. How Friendly Are They?

Alaskan Malamutes are loyal, friendly, intelligent and affectionate.

They are quieter than most dogs but tend to howl. They also can be challenging to potty train. Because of their friendliness, they are not commonly recommended for guard work.

They have a strong prey instinct and may chase smaller animals. Socialization and obedience training is highly recommended.

Without training, a clear leader and regular exercise, they can become destructive or aggressive. They are working dogs who need a regular physical and mental outlet.

4. Is This the Right Dog for You?

Exercise Needs


HIGH: These athletic dogs are capable of pulling loads (carting and sledding) and enjoy jogging, swimming and hiking. They are diggers, so designate a spot in your yard for your dog to fulfill this instinctive need.

Exercise your Alaskan Malamute every day in a secured area or on a leash. They are not often wary of strangers, and this could cause them to wander off, or worse, get stolen.

Consider enrolling your dog to participate in agility, obedience and rally trials to provide another outlet.

Grooming Needs



HIGH: Brush the thick, waterproof double coat every other day. The breed club recommends trimming your dog’s nails every 6 weeks and bathing the dog every 6–8 weeks. Also clean the ears and teeth regularly.

If your Alaskan Malamute keeps a longer coat, visiting a professional groomer a few times a year is your best bet.

Health Problems


MEDIUM: Common conditions include:

Watch this Alaskan Malamute’s first romp in the snow:

5. Where to Adopt One

We were surprised to find more than 250 Alaskan Malamutes, including purebreds, available for adoption across the country. Check with your local shelter or rescue first. You can also try our free online adoptable pet search.

If you contact breeders, get to know them. This is crucial, according to 2nd-generation Alaskan Malamute breeder and handler Xavier Santiago, who contributed to this article.

“The breeders know the health of the dog and are there for questions should they arise,” Santiago says. “Why? Beyond improving their breeding program, they know their animal is in a loving home and that you both care for its health on all levels.”

Additional Resources


Kristine Lacoste

View posts by Kristine Lacoste

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