Life with Mal: The Gentle Giant Alaskan Malamute

At the time Amy Sharp of Bourne invested in an adorable Alaskan Malamute puppy, she could never have imagined that her fluffy bundle of joy would grow into a giant dog breed weighing a massive 13 stone (82 kg). Her five-year-old dog, Mal, is now not only her best friend but also a local celebrity, turning heads wherever he goes with his majestic presence and gentle nature.

His collar is bigger than the belt of someone. Amy laughs, we did not think he would become this big. As they go, everyone stops to admire the huge dog and tends to pose questions which would otherwise be unbelievable to many people, who would say, Who is walking who?

The Alaskan Malamute – Born for the Arctic, Loved Everywhere

The Alaskan Malamute is among the oldest breeds of sledge dogs that were initially developed by the Mahlemut Inuit tribe of Alaska. These dogs were also reputed to be strong, strong and loyal and were constructed to pull heavy sledges over frozen areas and endure extreme temperatures.

• Physique: Great, and muscular, and wolfish, with stiff, arched ears, and a curly tail, which twists round the back.
• Coat: Thick double coat that keeps them warm during the cold weather. The inner layer is oily and soft, with the outer surface rough and weatherproof.
• Colour: The colour is usually grey, black, sable or red with a white face, legs and underbelly.
• Character- trait: loving, amiable, and outgoing-but stubborn and determined. Malamutes like being with people and working out.
• Life expectancy: Approximately 10-14 years when well cared for and well fed.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) notes a healthy male Alaskan Malamute weighs 34 39 kg, yet Mal has since increased in size to well over it – it looks like a giant, almost a pony, not a domestic animal.

Grooming a Giant

Soon, Amy discovered that there are special challenges that are involved in rearing a dog like Mal, most particularly grooming. His heavy coat of Arctic fur is cast off by Mal, and he must be brushed every day. Amy used social media to seek the help of local groomers when she found him too large to manage.

Her post was viral, and everyone in the community was discussing the big dog on Facebook. The offers were abundant, and a professional groomer came forward to accept the challenge to meet the giant Malamute.

Like Joan Sheehan, who runs The Alaskan Malamute Club of the UK, says, you would have to be ready to deal with the hair when you adopt a cute, fluffy one; it will be on your bed, your food, and your clothes.

A Gentle but Stubborn Soul

Mal is known as a very kind and loving man despite his huge stature. Nevertheless, Amy acknowledges that he is stubborn. In other instances, he simply lies down after walking and will not move. The neighbours appear to assist the case, but he will merely stare at us as though he is not yet ready to go home.

Mal has a strong character and is a back-chatter; therefore, he is both a handful and a heart-warmer. He is evidence that even the largest dogs may possess the kindest of hearts.

Life Lessons from Mal

Mal has taught Amy to be patient, strong, and to love him unconditionally. She advises the likely owners to do their homework before settling on a large or working breed. Malamutes require lots of exercise, training, and lots of attention; they are not a dog to be taken by a weak-hearted person. However, when one can manage their energy, they are the most faithful of companions.

Facts Sheet: The Mighty Malamute.

• Breed: Alaskan Malamute
• Weight: 13 stone (82kg) – twice the breed average.
• History: Alaska, where Inuit tribes have been breeding sledge dogs.
• Coat: Double-layered; sheds heavily.
• Power: Intelligent, strong, and loyal.
• Exercising: High – needs to exercise every day.
• Medical Requirement: Frequent brushing, grooming, and socialisation.
• Favourite Treat: Cheese cubes

He is a great big guy, Amy says with fondness. And it is the world of Mal – and we are all just existing in it.