Alaskan Malamutes - Appearance
The American Kennel Club view of Alaskan Malamutes states that the dog’s range of size should be in proportion. The average weight of these dogs are usually around 34 -39 kilograms and a height of 58 – 64 centimetres. Dogs over 45 kilograms and under 34 kilograms are found regularly so these sizes should be used as a guide. The male gender of this breed is normally larger than the female.
Dogs that weigh over 63 kilograms are occasionally seen although these dogs are uncommon and are part of a ‘giant’ Alaskan Malamute breed. These types of breed do not fit in with the American Kennel Clubs ‘view’ of what the breed should be like and also do not fit in with the actual history of the breed.
The Alaskan Malamute coat is thick typical winter variety – a lot coarser that the Siberian Husky. The colours of the coat are usually grey, white, black or even just white. Eyes are always brown in colour. Those dogs which have blue eyes are a result of mixed breeding which will prevent you from entering your dog in any sort of professional dog competition. The Alaskan Malamute is very sturdy and well built with a very dense bone. Malamutes are more long than they are tall.
The American Kennel Club states that Alaskan Malamutes are judged primarily on their ability to pull a heavy weight, for example, a sledge. All other characteristics and looks come secondary to this primary function. Alaskan Malamutes are not only chosen to pull sleighs because of their tolerance to cold conditions but also because they have an immense pull.