Like many of the dogs of the spitz family, the Alaskan Malamute evolved in the Arctic regions, formed through unfavorable climatic conditions. The breed’s foundation is unknown; however, it was first defined living a few native Inuit people known as the Mahlemuts, who lived alongside Norton Sound on Alaska’s northwest coast. Mahlemut comes from Mahle, an Inuit tribe name, and muts, which means village. The dogs served as hunting companions for a massive game and hauled the heavy loads back home. These dogs had been huge and strong rather than fast, allowing one dog to do the work of many smaller dogs. They had been an important cog in those people’s lives and had been dealt with nearly as one of the family, even though they had been in no way pampered as pets. When the first outside explorers came to the region in the 1700s, they had been inspired not only by the hardy dog but also by their owners’ clear attachment to them. With the invention of gold in 1896, a flood of outsiders got here to Alaska; for entertainment, they staged weight-pulling contests and races amongst their puppies. The local breeds had been interbred with every different. People added through settlers, regularly trying to create a quicker racer or certainly deliver the huge numbers of puppies needed to supply the gold rush. The natural Malamute changed into in hazard of being lost. In the 1920s, a New England canine racing fanatic acquired a few good specimens and commenced reproducing the conventional Malamutes. As the breed’s popularity grew, a few had been selected to assist Admiral Byrd in his 1933 trek to the South Pole. During World War II, the Malamute was again referred to as a service to function freight haulers, percent animals, and search-and-rescue puppies. In 1935, the breed obtained AKC popularity and commenced a brand new segment as an enforcing display canine and constant pet.

Temperement

The Alaskan Malamute is powerful, independent, strong-willed, and fun-loving. Given the dog’s history as a sled dog, the malamute loves activity and interaction with the family. Malamutes are family-oriented, and as long as they are given daily exercise, they are well-mannered in the home. Without proper training, they can become frustrated and destructive. This dog is friendly and sociable toward people but maybe assertive and should be introduced carefully to new dogs, pets, or livestock. Some can be domineering and tend to dig and howl.

Upkeep

The Alaskan Malamute loves chill weather and particularly loves the snow. They can run for miles and need adequate exercise every day, either in a long walk on a leash or the opportunity to run. When there is more shedding, the coat needs brushing once or twice a week.

Health

Major health issues: CHD, cataract. Minor health issues: chondrodysplasia, hypothyroidism Occasionally seen: gastric torsion, hemeralopia, polyneuropathy, seizures Suggested tests: hip, eye, (thyroid), (elbow), chondrodysplasia, (polyneuropathy) Life span: 10–12 years

Disclaimer

Note: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet.