Alaskan Malamute Breed Profile

Description

The Alaskan Malamute, one of the oldest Arctic sled dogs, is a powerful and substantially built dog with a deep chest and strong, well-muscled body.

Coloring

The usual colors range from light gray through intermediate shadings to black, sable, and shadings of sable to red. The only solid color allowable is all white.

Temperament

The Alaskan Malamute is an affectionate, friendly dog, not a "one man" dog. He is a loyal, devoted companion, playful in invitation, but generally impressive by his dignity after maturity.

Origin

The Alaskan Malamute is the oldest of the Arctic sled dog breeds, and is a close cousin to the Russian Samoyed and the Siberian Husky. Malamutes were instrumental in bringing supplies and people during the Klondike Gold Rush of the 1890s. Malamutes have long been the preferred sled racer and sledge dog. Most notably, as being the chosen breed to pull the sleds of Admiral Richard Byrd on his expedition to the South Pole.

Care Level

Medium (Need plenty of exercise)