The Alaskan Malamute Is Built for Long, Heavy Hauls

Originally bred for heavy freighting across long distances, the Alaskan Malamute breed was used by the Indigenous Inuit people of Alaska for finding seals, transporting supplies and hauling heavy loads.

Today, Malamutes still participate in competitive sledding and weight-pulling competitions, showing off their immensely powerful physique and endurance.

Purebred Alaskan Malamutes typically weigh between 75 to 85 pounds (34 to 39 kg), with males on the larger end. They feature almond-shaped brown eyes, erect ears and a thick, plush coat that comes in various colors, including sable.

These active dogs are known for their intelligence and loyalty, making them excellent family pets for those with the space and time to train them.

As pack animals, Malamutes thrive under firm but loving training. Obedience training from a young pup is crucial to harness their strength and independence; they can be a handful for first-time dog owners.

Malamutes are social but should be carefully introduced to other dogs and other pets to avoid dominance issues.

Like all dog breeds, Malamutes are prone to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia, eye problems such as day blindness and the genetic disorder primary ciliary dyskinesia, which affects the respiratory tract and nervous system.

In addition to hip dysplasia and primary ciliary dyskinesia, they may also suffer from:

Early screenings and genetic testing through a responsible breeder can help minimize the risk of passing on these conditions. Regular vet visits are vital for early detection and management.

For diet, choose high-quality dog food — whether commercially manufactured or vet-approved human foods in moderation — to support the dog’s age, energy levels and health status.

Malamutes have a dense double coat that sheds year-round and blows out seasonally.

Weekly grooming with a metal comb and pin brush helps control loose fur and keeps their coat looking majestic. During shedding season, daily brushing may be necessary.

Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Malamute is a standout among dog breeds. The Alaskan Malamute Club supports breed standards, responsible breeders and education on the dog’s unique traits.

If you're considering adding a Malamute to your family, be sure to work with an ethical breeder who prioritizes health and temperament.

Though often compared to the Siberian Husky and Greenland Dog, the Malamute is larger and more muscular, bred for strength over speed. While they share a wolfish look and northern heritage, they are not the same breed.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.