The Alaskan malamute is a Nordic dog with an imposing yet elegant appearance. Originally bred as a sled and pack dog, it has now also established itself as an affectionate and devoted life companion.
The Alaskan malamute is a powerful and sturdy dog, known not only as a sled animal but also as a courageous bear hunter in the lands of the far North. Hardened by the harsh climate of the Arctic regions, the breed is renowned for its health and physical endurance. All qualities that enable Alaskans to endure climatic hardships, lack of adequate food, and extremely tough living conditions.
The name of these dogs is said to derive from that of an Eskimo people: the Malhemute. Alaskan malamutes are dogs that enjoy exceptional appeal also for their appearance, which closely resembles that of their ancestor, the wolf. It is a highly resilient breed, and for this reason it was also used for heavy pack work by northern peoples. Precisely because of the extreme living conditions they were subjected to and the harsh natural selection they faced — survived only by the strongest and most hardened individuals — these robust sled dogs became, over the years, renowned as useful helpers to humans in extreme climatic conditions. When the first pioneers arrived in Alaska, the breed deteriorated considerably due to crossbreeding with other types, and it was not until 1926 that a precise standard was finally established in the United States.
The Alaskan malamute is a reliable and decidedly easy dog to love, not only for its appearance but also for its character. At first glance, what is most captivating about these Nordic dogs is undoubtedly their movement and proud bearing. The great power they express, combined with a rhythmic, flowing gait, allows them to conserve energy while enduring long marches across difficult terrain, excelling in their characteristic activities: running and pulling.
"The Alaskan malamute is still used as a sled dog in some Nordic countries. These are independent dogs and, generally, with a strong character," explains dog trainer Bruno Ferrari. "The malamute establishes a different relationship with humans than with its own kind, and therefore there is no risk of it adopting an alpha attitude towards us. It is, however, necessary to be consistent and patient with it, raising it with gentleness and firmness."
The malamute is not territorial and is therefore not suited to guard duties. It is a playful and docile dog, but often dominant with its own kind, probably due to its past as a sled dog and the pack relationships that formed within the team. Naturally, like all Nordic breeds, the malamute also needs runs and walks in the open air, and apartment life does not suit its character or its temperament. A garden and the opportunity for regular physical activity are therefore essential to the nature of this magnificent dog, so similar to the wolf.
The coat is one of the distinctive features of this powerful sled dog. Its thick fur requires only a couple of brushings a week (when shedding, it would be better to increase them to allow new coat growth), and a weekly cleaning of the outer ear flaps. The Alaskan malamute has few needs and is generally considered, from a nutritional standpoint, a frugal dog. The diet must, nonetheless, be balanced, especially during the growth and adolescent phases: the Alaskan is, in fact, a muscular dog, and adequate protein intake is fundamental to its harmonious development.
"A curiosity regarding the diet of these powerful sled dogs now transplanted into an urban setting. Like all Nordic draught dogs, Alaskan malamutes are very fond of sweet fruit, of which they are decidedly greedy. This is probably a legacy of their past as sled dogs, accustomed to frugal and unappetising meals and, above all, ones devoid of fresh fruit," adds Bruno Ferrari. During training sessions, then, a grape or a piece of ripe apple can make a much-appreciated treat for the majestic dog of the far North.
Like all large-breed dogs, the Alaskan can also be prone to hip dysplasia. The selection of breeding individuals from this point of view is therefore important. Other breed-related problems include eye conditions, for which specific periodic check-ups are necessary. The Alaskan, like all dogs of its size, can be prone to gastric torsion. Food should therefore be divided into two portions a day and, after each meal, it is important that the dog does not engage in excessive physical exercise or frantic running followed by drinking large amounts of water. As with other Nordic breeds, there are active associations that can be contacted by those wishing to adopt these magnificent dogs and choose them as life companions.