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Article Series: Dog Breeds, Breeders & Breeding
Dog Breeds & Dog Breeding Made Simple
Dog
Breeds: Alaskan Malamute (Working Group)
The Alaskan Malamute is a large, powerful
canine that is strong-willed and independent, yet obedient
and loving towards its owners. These dogs are at heaven when
running around or pulling a sled outside. They are a family
oriented dog breed that is sociable towards people but may
be overly aggressive towards other animals, especially strange
dogs.
A Brief History Of The Alaskan Malamute
As its name suggests, the Alaskan Malamute originated from
Alaska, who's original function was hunting large game and
heavy sled pulling. Today the Alaskan Malamute is used primarily
for sled pulling only.
Like other members of the spitz family, the Alaskan Malamute
came from the Arctic regions and are at home in the cold climate.
History tells us that the dogs were living with a people known
as the Mahlemuts, whom lived in Alaska's northwest coast along
the Norton Sound. The term “Mahlemut” comes from Mahle, which
is a tribal name, and “mut” meaning village.
The breed was used to hunt very large game, specifically seals
and polar bears. They would then use their incredible size
and strength to haul the carcasses back to their masters' villages.
The dog's talent lied in their strength and size rather than
speed, so the Alaskan Malamute would often hunt with several
smaller, faster dogs to find the prey before attacking.
The breed has always been respected as one of the family.
They were essential to the survival of the people. However,
the Alaskan Malamute was not pampered like today's common house
dog. The weather was very unforgiving and if any dog was not
up to the hunting requirements needed to be useful, they were
often killed.
During World War II, the Alaskan Malamute was used as service
dogs to help facilitate search and rescue missions, work as
freight haulers, and pack animals. After the war their numbers
continued to grow as the breed became more and more popular.
The breed was officially recognized by the AKC in 1935.
Upkeep Requirements For The Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is one dog breed that is at home in cold
weather. They have a tireless need to haul heavy sleds in the
snow and can run for miles without stopping. Without proper,
daily exercise to work these high-energy levels the dog can
become frustrated and destructive, so outside fun and games
is a must.
Alaskan Malamute dogs are rated as being one of the most affectionate
dog breeds we know of today. For this reason alone they need
lots of human interaction. They are well-mannered and although
can sleep outside at night in cold temperatures, prefer to
be inside and close to the rest of the family until morning.
Their heavy coat needs a good brushing twice weekly or every-other-day
during shedding season.
Health Concerns
The Alaskan Malamute has an average lifespan of between ten
and twelve years. The two main health concerns that run common
in the breed are cataracts and CHD. Minor health problems that
may show up are hypothyroidism and chondrodysplasia. Veterinarians
suggest that Alaskan Malamute dogs get tested for potential
hip, thyroid, and eye problems.
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SolveYourProblem.com
: 2009
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