Large breedworking group

Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamutes are big, lovable goofballs who genuinely thrive on being part of the family pack. They're affectionate, playful, and famously social — often greeting everyone (including strangers) with a wagging tail rather than a guard-dog bark. While they're gentle and patient with children, their size and exuberance mean they can accidentally bowl over little ones, so supervision and early manners training go a long way.

Temperament

affectionate · playful · loyal · independent · friendly · energetic

Size

Typically 75–100 lbs and 23–25 inches at the shoulder.

Best for

families, active owners, needs a yard, multi pet homes

Energy level

high

Shedding

Yes

Grooming

High

Training

Difficult

Lifespan

10–14 years

Behavior & traits

affectionate with family
great with kids
pack oriented
strong willed
social

Health concerns

Malamutes can be prone to hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and certain inherited eye conditions like cataracts. They're also sensitive to heat due to their thick double coat, so families in warmer climates need to be mindful of overheating. Choosing a reputable breeder who screens for genetic conditions is one of the best steps you can take.

Responsible breeding and regular check-ups go a long way. Always ask breeders about health testing.

Feeding & nutrition

Feed a high-quality large-breed formula with balanced protein and joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine and omega-3s. Most adult Malamutes do well on 4–5 cups of food split between two meals to help prevent bloat. Watch portions carefully — these dogs can pack on weight quickly, which stresses their joints.

Exercise needs

Malamutes need at least 1–2 hours of vigorous exercise daily, including walks, hikes, or backyard play. They love pulling, so activities like canicross, weight pulling, or even pulling kids on a sled are wonderful outlets. A bored Malamute will dig craters in the yard or redecorate your couch, so consistent activity is non-negotiable.

Living with a Alaskan Malamute

Living with a Malamute means embracing fur — lots of it — as a permanent part of your home décor, especially during their twice-yearly 'coat blows' when tumbleweeds of undercoat roll through the house. They're talkative dogs who 'woo-woo' their opinions about everything from dinner being late to you leaving the room, which families often find hilarious. Expect a dog who wants to be wherever you are, sprawled across the kitchen floor or leaning against your kids during movie night. They're escape artists and diggers by nature, so a secure yard with reinforced fencing is a must. Despite the work, families consistently describe Malamutes as soulful, deeply bonded companions who turn everyday life into a bit of an adventure.

Recommended products

An undercoat rake and high-velocity dryer are absolute essentials for managing that thick double coat — plan on brushing several times a week and daily during shedding seasons. A sturdy no-pull harness designed for strong dogs is critical, since Malamutes naturally pull with impressive force. Invest in durable chew toys and puzzle feeders to keep their clever minds engaged, plus a raised, large-breed bowl set and a cooling mat for warm months.

Reads for Alaskan Malamute owners

[header] Illustration of an independent, alert dog standing tall on a

Article

The Free Spirit: The Dog Who Writes Their Own Rulebook

Independent, opinionated, and ruled by a glorious chase instinct — The Free Spirit is the dog who came into your life with their own agenda and no plans to update it. If that sounds like your dog (or your dream dog), this portrait is for you. Inside: the traits, the best-matched owners, and the breeds that tend to land here.

All ages7 min read

Illustrated

Engaging Activities for Border Collies: A How-To Guide

Is your Border Collie always on the lookout for something to do? Dive into engaging mental activities that will keep their sharp minds busy and entertained!

All ages2 min read

[header] Senior dog resting on an orthopedic bed while a puppy waits

Checklist

Before the Puppy Arrives: A Pre-Arrival Checklist for Your Senior Dog

Your calm senior dog has been quietly compensating for aches, stiffness, and fading senses for years — and a new puppy is about to expose all of it. This pre-arrival checklist walks you through the vet workup, pain baseline, and home setup to tackle in the weeks *before* pickup day, so your older dog isn't blindsided by the chaos.

Senior8 min read