Mallys 101

Working group

The Alaskan Malamute is the freight train of the Tundra, a dog developed to pull heavy loads through brutal conditions. They are strong in both mind and body, and do best with families who not only have a high tolerance for shedding but also a willingness to set limits and be consistent. In such environments, Malamutes will relax into pets who think the world of their people.

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Perfect companion for winter activities

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
23 to 25 inches tall
Group Size Large
Lifespan
10 to 14 years
020
Weight
75 to 85 lbs
0150

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My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult Mally

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Mally conditions

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Hypothyroid disease

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Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

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Arthritis

Senior Mally

8+ years

Risk level for common Mally conditions

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Hypothyroid disease

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Arthritis

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Skin cancer

Mally puppy

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common Mally conditions

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Gastroenteritis

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Trauma

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Conjunctivitis

Young adult Mally

1 year to 4 years

Risk level for common Mally conditions

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Hip dysplasia

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Trauma

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Gastroenteritis

Mature adult Mally

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Mally conditions

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Hypothyroid disease

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Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

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Arthritis

Senior Mally

8+ years

Risk level for common Mally conditions

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Hypothyroid disease

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Arthritis

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Skin cancer

Mally puppy

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common Mally conditions

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Gastroenteritis

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Trauma

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Conjunctivitis

Young adult Mally

1 year to 4 years

Risk level for common Mally conditions

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Hip dysplasia

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Trauma

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Gastroenteritis

Alaskan Malamute

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Alaskan Malamute introduction

The name comes from an Alaskan indigenous tribe, the Mahlemuts.

Alaskan Malamute coat care and colors

Not surprising for a dog developed to thrive in bitterly cold, snowy landscapes, the Alaskan Malamute has a lot of coat. While the breed sheds all the time, the Malamute “blows” its coat in spring and fall, dropping fur in astonishing volume. Regular, deep combing and brushing will help somewhat with shedding, but you'll still be dealing with a lot of fur.

Does my Alaskan Malamute need haircuts?

Alaskan Malamutes usually don't need haircuts. On the rare occasion that a Mal's soft undercoat gets extremely matted, being clipped short may be required. The breed's double coat will take a while to grow out, but it will eventually recover.

How often should I brush my Alaskan Malamute’s coat?

Weekly combing and brushing down to the skin will remove debris from your Alaskan Malamute's coat and help prevent matting. During periods of heavy shedding -- spring and fall -- using a rake along with more frequent combing and brushing will help reduce the amount of fur around the house.

Is my Alaskan Malamute hot in the summer?

Alaskan Malamutes prefer cold weather to hot. In the summer, their double coat provides some protection against the sun, but they will be warm. Make sure fresh water and shade are always available, and don't exercise your Mal during the hottest part of the day.

Mally exercise & training

Full speed ahead

Exercise level

The Alaskan Malamute is a powerful and athletic dog developed for hard work in harsh conditions. You'll need to plan for a good amount of exercise, preferably in the snow.

Independent study

Trainability

The Alaskan Malamute does not lack intelligence, but this breed often prefers to make its own decisions. An early start to training and socialization is advisable, as is developing consistent house rules and sticking to them. Leash-training is essential, since this is a breed who can easily pull a grown man off his feet. Acclimate to nail trims early to avoid future struggles.

Mally fun facts

Top girl names for Mallys

100%

of Mallys are female

0%

of Mallys are male

Top boy names for Mallys

Nationwide loves Alaskan Malamutes of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Mallys

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