Alaskan Malamute

• Powerful
• Large
• Hard Working
• Intelligent
• Artic Dog

Alaskan Malamute History

The Malamute was named after a nomadic Artic tribe the Mahlemiut Inuit Eskimos. They are powerful and can endure extreme weather conditions and were used as sled dogs and for hunting.

The breed was first officially recognised by the American Kennel Council in 1935 and only arrived in Australia in 1978.

Alaskan Malamute Characteristics

This large dog has a thickly furred double coat that can be seen in a variety of colours including grey, black & white, sable (red undercoat with dark grey outer coat) or red.

Comparisons are often made between the Malamute and the Siberian Husky, however there are stark differences. The Malamute is a larger, heavy-boned dog bred for power, strength and hauling heavy weights over long distances. The Siberian Husky is a smaller dog bred for speed and agility.

Due to their high energy level and impressive intellect, both physical and mental stimulation is imperative to avoid behavioural problems. Failure to challenge and exercise these dogs regularly results in distressed and occasionally destructive dogs.

Alaskan Malamute Health Issues

Average lifespan is 11-14 years.
Common Illnesses include;

• Hip Dysplasia - Genetic condition that cause abnormal development of the elbow and hip joints in young dogs. This can lead to early onset degenerative joint disease.
• Allergies and Auto –immune disease – Causing skin problems.
• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation Volvulus, GDV) – Twisting of the stomach resulting in rapid swelling of the abdomen causing pain and eventual death if not treated.
• Hypothyroidism – Underactive thyroid gland causing obesity, lethargy, ear infections and skin problems.
• Immune mediated Haemolytic Anaemia – Immune system destroys red blood cells causing anaemia, signs include weakness, poor appetite, listlessness and fever.
• Diabetes Mellitus – Abnormally high blood sugar resulting in ravenous appetite, excessive drinking and urination, vomiting and possible coma.
• Corneal Dystropy – Fluid accumulation in the cornea resulting in inflammation of the cornea and possible corneal ulceration.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – Progressive degeneration of the retina eventually causing blindness.
• Cataracts –Abnormal opacity in the lens resulting in blurred vision and eventual blindness if not treated.
• Epilepsy – There is an increased incidence of recurrent seizures in this breed.