Breed info

Breed information

If you are thinking of getting a Malamute, Please, Please look into the breed before hand, read everything you can, talk to people that own them, meet some in person. Getting any dog is an important decision, they are living breathing things, with feelings.

When considering a Malamute it is important to bear in mind it's origins, as this, like any breed, explains alot of their qualities and the reasons behind them.

Origins

The Alaskan Malamute originates from the north west coast of Alaska. They were originally breed by the Mahlemut Eskimo tribe, They were valued by the tribes as they performed many useful jobs for them, and it could be argued were essential for their survival. They were primarily used to haul sleds with heavy loads for long distances, back from hunts or hauling goods for trade. While out hunting they would have been involved in the hunt itself as well as hauling the results back to the camps. The dogs would also been used by the tribes to help with protection from polar bears and other predators that may have threaten them. There are also tales of the dogs being taken into the dwellings at night to keep the people warm. The climate of Alaska must also be taken into account, with temperatures dropping to minus 50 degrees at times. These dogs had to live and work in these extreme temperatures.

Character

Malamutes are very friendly to all people, They love everybody and feel everybody should love them ! ( This includes the post man, sales men and anyone trying to break into your house ) This friendliness does not necessarily extend to other dogs, especially those of the same sex. They are also not to be trusted with any small animals (such as Cats, rabbits etc ) They are very intelligent and stubborn.

Size

Malamutes are a large breed, usually standing between 23-28 inches at the shoulder. Taking in to account the main purpose of the breed they are very strong.

Coat

The coat is dense with a soft undercoat and longer courser outer coat, this thick coat keeps them warm in winter ( Remember where they come from ! ) and cool in summer.

Feet

Ok, a little weird to mention the feet but we get comments on them ( The dogs not ours ) The Feet are large and furry, helping them to walk on snow.

Tail

The tail of a malamute should be held over the back, but not curling round too much, it should also not rest on the back but be held like a "waving Plume".

Colour

Malamutes can have many different colour coats, ranging from silver to dark grey, Light red through to deep chestnut and also Black. All these colours come with white or cream legs, chest and underside.They can have various facial marking.