A sociable, warm dog that greets people as friends rather than attaching to a single person. It stays playful and fun-loving, and as it matures it takes on a calm, dignified air. Bred to work alongside people, it is loyal to its family and happiest when it has a job to do.12
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for an Alaskan Malamute. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
Deshedding spring and autumnExtra brushing while the coat blowsevery day
Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
Bathevery 10 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseAbout 90 minutes a dayevery day
Heat care summerWalk in the cool morning and eveningevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year
Coat and looks how to spot one
double coat, medium length
A thick, coarse outer coat protects a dense, woolly and slightly oily undercoat that can be 2.5 to 5 cm deep, a combination made for Arctic cold. Even the insides of the ears are well furred, and the plumed tail is carried over the back.124
Colourslight grey through shades to black, with whitesable and whitered and whiteseal and whitesolid white126
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. The Royal Kennel Club suggests more than 2 hours of exercise a day, and VCA recommends a very long walk, jog or run in a secure area daily, plus mental games. Sledding, carting, backpacking and weight pull are ideal outlets.437
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brush often, ideally daily, and more during the seasonal shedding of the undercoat. An occasional bath every 6 to 8 weeks helps loosen dead coat; dry the dense coat completely afterwards.453
Home where they are happiest
Suits a large house with a large, securely fenced garden and access to outdoor space. Its heavy coat makes it very comfortable in cold climates; shade and cool resting spots help in warm weather.4
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A balanced complete food for a large, active breed, with portions matched to workload. The thick coat can hide body shape, so check condition by feel and adjust portions to keep the dog lean. Puppies do well on a large-breed growth formula.3
Company who they like around
A people-oriented dog that enjoys company and does not like to be left out of family life. Its friendly nature means it is not a one-person dog, and regular shared activity keeps it content.12
The story where it all began
The Alaskan Malamute is one of the oldest Arctic sled dogs and takes its name from the Malimiut Inupiaq people of northwestern Alaska, who relied on these powerful dogs to haul heavy loads and help with hunting. During the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s, sled dogs became hugely valuable to prospectors, and many local dogs were mixed with incoming breeds. In the 1920s and 1930s enthusiasts, most notably Eva B. Seeley, worked to preserve the traditional type, and the AKC recognised the breed in 1935. Malamutes were chosen to support Admiral Byrd's expedition towards the South Pole in 1933 and later hauled freight and helped in rescue work during the Second World War. Wartime losses left only around 30 registered dogs by 1947, so the studbook was reopened and breeders combined the Kotzebue, M'Loot and Hinman-Irwin lines to rebuild the breed. In 2010 it became the official state dog of Alaska.163
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The Alaskan Malamute was named the official state dog of Alaska in 2010.6
2
Malamutes were chosen to help Admiral Byrd on his expedition to the South Pole in 1933.3
3
The Royal Kennel Club describes it as the strongest of the sled dogs, built to haul heavy freight rather than race.4
4
Even the insides of its ears are covered in fur to keep out the cold.4
5
By 1947 only about 30 registered Malamutes were left, and the breed was rebuilt from three foundation lines.6
6
The University of Washington's 'husky' mascot is actually an Alaskan Malamute.6
7
Blue eyes are not part of the breed standard; Malamutes have brown, almond-shaped eyes.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The Alaskan Malamute takes its name from the Malemiut people of Alaska, who developed the breed for hauling heavy loads in Arctic conditions.8
Famous ones stars of the breed
Balto Led the final leg of the 1925 serum run to Nome, though often misidentified as a Siberian Husky, Balto was a sled dog of mixed breed, but the story is iconic for Arctic breeds like the Malamute.8
Togo Another hero of the 1925 serum run, Togo was a Siberian Husky, but his endurance and leadership are celebrated in Arctic sled dog history, often associated with Malamute traits.8
I wake up early, stretch my legs, and give my human a big, slobbery kiss. After a quick breakfast, we head out for a long walk in the snowy woods. I love pulling the sled and feeling the wind in my fur. Later, I help carry the groceries home in my backpack. In the afternoon, I nap in my favorite sunny spot, dreaming of the next adventure. When my family comes home, I greet them with a wagging tail and a happy bark. We end the day with a game of fetch in the yard, and I curl up by the fire, content and warm.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FCI
Standard no. 243, Group 5 Spitz and primitive types, Section 1 Nordic Sledge Dogs; standard published 09.03.2023.1
AKC
Recognised in 1935, Working Group; current standard effective 31 May 1994.2
Choose large, durable chews that suit a Malamute's strong jaws and help scrape away tartar, but count every treat toward the day's calories to keep this breed lean. If you notice itchy skin or loose stools after a new treat, ask your vet.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Alaskan Malamute, and at what times?
Feed your Alaskan Malamute at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Consistent times like morning and evening work well. Adjust portions based on activity and body condition, and always check with your vet for exact amounts.103
What should an Alaskan Malamute eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Your Malamute thrives on a balanced complete food formulated for large, active breeds. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, and xylitol, as listed by the ASPCA. Always consult your vet for the best diet plan.311
How often should I bathe an Alaskan Malamute?
Bathe your Malamute every 6 to 8 weeks to help loosen dead coat, and dry the dense coat completely. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 70 days. More frequent baths are fine if needed, but avoid over-bathing.453Pet Wiki plan
How often does an Alaskan Malamute need brushing?
Brush your Malamute daily, especially during heavy shedding seasons when the undercoat blows. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends brushing every 3 days, but daily is ideal to keep the coat healthy and reduce shedding.453Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim an Alaskan Malamute's nails, and how often?
Trim your Malamute's nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, usually about every 4 weeks. Trim a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests every 28 days.12Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does an Alaskan Malamute need?
Your Malamute needs more than 2 hours of exercise daily, including long walks, jogs, and mental games. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests about 90 minutes a day, but adjust to your dog's energy. Activities like sledding or backpacking are perfect outlets.437Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after an Alaskan Malamute's teeth and ears?
Brush your Malamute's teeth daily or at least two to three times a week using dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks for dirt or redness, and clean gently without pushing anything into the ear canal. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests ear checks every 14 days and daily tooth brushing.12Pet Wiki plan
How long does an Alaskan Malamute live?
Alaskan Malamutes typically live 10 to 12 years. With proper care, nutrition, and regular vet checkups, they can enjoy a long, happy life.345
Is an Alaskan Malamute good with children and other pets?
This sociable, warm breed is friendly with people, including children, and loves being part of family life. For other pets, early socialization is key; individual temperaments vary. Consult a good breeder or vet for guidance.12
Can an Alaskan Malamute be left alone?
Malamutes are people-oriented and prefer company; they may become unhappy if left alone for long periods. They do best with plenty of family interaction and a job to do. If you must leave them, provide mental stimulation and a secure space.12
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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