Alaskan Malamutes: Characterisitcs
Not many Alaskan Malamute dogs are used these days for their original purpose of pulling sleds for travel and haulage. Some are still used for recreational sledge pulling. The main purpose of keeping an Alaskan Malamute in present time is for a family dog or show dog. Although they have an immense pulling power and can shift very heavy objects, they are just not fast enough to compete with smaller faster breeds. Think of Malamutes as large trucks and the smaller breeds as race cars, forgive the analogy but I am sure you get the idea. They are more suited to shifting large heavy weights.
Most dog breeders in the world agree that the malamute is the most unchanged breed compared to other breeds – in the sense that its look and function has remained unchanged. Alaskan Malamutes are so friendly and loving that they will probably not make very good watchdogs. The Alaskan Malamute is also very widely known for it’s independent mind and a lot of people have had their lives saved in the artic circle as a result of an Alaskan Malamute not following commands, for example – being told to pull a sled over a snow covered precipice. Owners who want a dog to carry out there every command to the letter should maybe think about selecting another breed as a pet. For years and years Alaskan Malamutes have been living in the outdoors with their owner and similar sized domesticated animals such as other Malamutes and Huskies. This company is also very deeply rooted in their genes which will make them unpredictable around other smaller animals. Alaskan Malamutes should never really be left out in public without a lead on.
Alaskan Malamutes as mentioned earlier remain unchanged for hundreds of years and with this history comes a very deep rooted instinct built deep into there genes. Therefore it is advisable to only allow Malamutes to keep company with other animals or breeds once you are sure they have been ‘accepted’. Don’t let all this put you off though as Malamutes are so friendly and affectionate and all they ask in return is some exercise and some love in return.
As we have pointed out above, an Alaskan Malamute is really friendly and affectionate to it’s family which is more predominant when it is no longer a pup. However it is important that until you are completely sure of it’s nature that it should always be watched around smaller animals even those who share the same home. After some years you will be able to determine if your Alaskan Malamute can be left with other animals in your home. Also it is important to point out that because your Malamute is comfortable around your animals that does not necessarily mean that it is going to be the same with other people’s pets or animals.
Alaskan Malamutes are well known to be friendly and quiet dogs. They very rarely bark but rather howl and talk in the sense that they are trying to convey something to you. There howl is very similar to that of a wolf.