Area of Origin: Alaska, USA.
 

Original Function: Heavy sled pulling.
 

Coat: Light Grey through to black, with white shading and a white mask or cap; also shades of sable or red with shading, or all white.
 

Height: Breed standards differ between UK and US

UK: Dogs: 25-28 ins; Bitches: 23-26 ins.

US: Dogs: 25 ins; Bitches 23 ins.
(these measurements are at the shoulder)
 

General Appearance
Heavily boned, powerfully built, not too compact and never appearing short on the leg.
 
For more info on the UK Breed standard check out the kennel club website.
 

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The Alaskan Malamute was first described living among the native Inuit people known as the Mahlemuts, who lived along Norton Sound on Alaska's northwest coast. They helped hunt and haul Seals and Polar Bears. They were an essential cog in the Inuits' lives and were treated almost as part of the family. With the discovery of gold in 1896, a flood of outsiders came to Alaska. As the breeds reputation grew, some were chosen to help Admiral Byrd in his 1933 trek to the South Pole. During World War One Malamutes were once again called into service, this time 450 dogs with their sleds and harnesses, along with 2 tonnes of dried salmon for dog food where shipped over from Alaska to France, helping out in the very harsh conditions to move freight to desperate troops cut off in mountain passes and far reaching out post's.
 
Alaskan Malamutes are powerful, independent, strong willed, laid back and fun loving. They are seldom nervous or anxious. They love to pull, run and roam. They are friendly towards people, but may be aggressive towards strange dogs. Some can be domineering and some like to dig and howl.
 
Malamutes, once matured, need long walks or the opportunity to run or be worked/stimulated (mushing, agility, cani-x, weight pulling, backpacking, skijoring, therapy dog, obedience trials, etc). Their coat needs brushing at least three times a week, more when shedding.
 
Health concerns are: Hip Dysplasia, Cataracts, Chondrodysplasia.
The average life span is 10-12 years.  
 
Taking all this into consideration: IS THE ALASKAN MALAMUTE THE RIGHT DOG FOR YOU?