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.
A Beautiful Working Dog
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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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