Alaskan Malamute (English). Alaskan Malamute – is an ancient breed designed for dog sledding in the regions of the Far North. Animals are famous for their endurance, intelligence and appearance – wolf coloration gives dogs uniqueness.
Appearance and dimensions
Alaskan Malamute is a large dog. According to the standard, the growth of Malamutes reaches 64 cm. Due to the fact that the dog has a powerful physique and fluffy coat, it seems even larger. On average, a Malamute weighs 38-40 kg, but its weight can reach up to 50 kg. Malamutes have a large skeleton, well-developed muscles, so the animal looks menacing and impressive.
External features of the Malamute:
- Large, broad head, in size proportional to the body. Between the ears, a rounded skull narrowed towards the ears. Pronounced stop. Large, not narrow muzzle with powerful jaws, scissor bite.
Black lips tight. Medium in size, dark or amber eyes are almond shaped. Set wide apart, slightly oblique. The look of the dog is good-natured, smart.
Large black nose. Triangular, rounded at the ends, erect and mobile ears of medium size, set far from the eyes. When the Malamute tries to pull the load, the ears are laid back. - Harmonious, powerful physique. Endurance and working capacity of the dog is due to the wide skeleton and strong muscles. The body is compact, square in configuration, but the length is slightly greater than the height at the withers.
Broad, muscular neck and straight back, muscular loin. Belly not tucked up. The tail is completely covered with thick hair. The Malamute’s tail is carried high over the back, but not curled into a ring. - Muscular, straight, parallel limbs with hocks, weakly pronounced joints, located low. The animal moves powerfully, confidently, smoothly. Paws with well developed pads and long claws provide easy walking in deep snow.
- Double coat, top layer – hard. Hair is longer on the neck, shoulders, back, hips and tail. The undercoat is dense, soft and dense. The wool cover provides the four-legged protection from moisture and frost. In summer, the coat becomes shorter and thinner.
The most common Malamutes are wolf-colored. It is extremely rare for a dog to be born with a sable color. Now popular sieve white malamutes. However, more than one color is often combined. On the stomach, paws, in the form of a mask on the muzzle, white fur. According to the standard, dark spots are allowed only on the head. On the body, the coat color is uniform.
The story of the breed
The Alaskan Malamute begins its history from the shores of Alaska. The local natives, the people of the Malemut tribe, were the first owners of powerful sled dogs with thick hair and a high survival rate in severe frosts in a snowy area.
The name of the breed received in honor of the tribe. Further, the history of the breed takes place during the period «gold rush». At the beginning of the last century, people who wanted to get rich quickly filled Alaska «to the brim». Gold miners from different regions without knowledge and experience went for gold. There were dog sledges as transport then.
Smart dogs in many situations saved the lives of their owners, regardless of whether the owner was permanent or temporary. This period negatively affected the purity of the breed. Gold diggers sought to get a very hardy and fast dog, so they began to knit Malamutes with other breeds.
Arctic dogs became especially popular at that time, but it was not possible to derive a new look. After many experiments with crossing purebred malamuts, only a few families are left.
When the period «gold fever» became calm, sled dogs were used in sports – Dog sled races. People spent a lot of money on this sport. Many were sure that Alaskan Malamut, provided that he was purebred, could win any race. Therefore, breeders began to actively restore the number of purebred dogs.
In 1926, the population was restored, by 1935 the breed was recognized in all countries of the world and from issues a standard.
Character
Alaskan malamute – Incredibly kind animal. Dogs are crazy about people, quickly tied to them and find an approach to each. There is a misconception that Malamutes are wayward animals. These four-legged animals are very devoted, friendly, therefore they instantly find contact with any person.
The Malamute expects the same qualities from people. He is used to being the center of attention, and he does not like loneliness at all. He likes to be around noisy and active people – Malamute loves to frolic and have fun.
Malamute Character Features:
- Likes to be active. When going out into nature together, you need to be prepared for the fact that pets will require attention: rush around, jump, call for play;
- A particularly laudable quality is love for children. Malamutes are naturally responsible, therefore they can serve as house nannies. Dogs will never leave a baby alone if there are no adults nearby. The dog will carefully observe the baby so that he does not get into trouble;
- Ready to take on a stronger opponent who is trying to threaten the peace of their family. From his closest ancestor, the wolf, the Malamute inherited courage, fearlessness and courage; This dog is trustworthy. This species is a leader, therefore it can sometimes show pride and stubbornness;
- They prefer to play rather than learn, they are smart, and, with the right approach, they can be easily controlled;
- Inclined to choose one owner, only executes his commands. This refers to the lack of an animal, as other family members may find it difficult to raise a quadruped. The dog can be taught to bring slippers, carry packages and even play hide and seek.
Malamute Features
The Alaskan Malamute is descended from the wolf. This is a very ancient native breed, which has long lived next to a person. Malamute – a large, even gigantic animal, with a very kind and affectionate character.
The dog has a large stature and a powerful physique, therefore visually it looks dangerous, but in fact it rarely shows aggression. Outwardly, Malamutes are similar to Huskies, only they differ in a more independent and independent character.
The Malamute is considered an ideal working dog, very strong and hardy. These dogs like to be close to people, they trust them, because the protective qualities of the four-legged are not inherent. These are very kind, non-aggressive animals that are extremely rarely ready to bite.
Malamute is ready to patronize and accompany his master everywhere. The dog is ready to become a best friend, faithful companion and excellent «babysitter» for a child.
Care and maintenance
Before you start an Alaskan Malamute, you need to study the conditions of its maintenance. Initially, it is required to take into account that representatives of the breed need physical activity. The animal should spend a lot of time on a walk.
If you plan to keep a dog in a city apartment, you should be prepared for the fact that the dog will have to walk constantly and for a long time – at least 1-1.5 hours.
Alaskan Malamute puppy
Care features:
- The Alaskan Malamute must be off-leash when walking. Of course, it is permissible to do this on specialized sites where there are special slides, structures, obstacles, etc. If the dog does not have enough such loads, it will literally begin to wither and become lazy;
- It is important to take into account one feature of the breed – tendency to dig holes. That is why it is very important to walk the dog outside the city or in the forest as often as possible. There will be little space in the yard for such a dog, besides, he can dig through the entire territory. A closed enclosure is not suitable for an animal;
- Malamute needs proper and constant care. The animal has a long coat, which is combed out with a special brush or comb. If this is not done, over time, the wool will begin to roll into whole tangles and the entire living space will be in woolen lumps;
- Regular bathing required – at least once every three months. If the color of the dog is two-tone, it must be bathed using special products – for white and dark spots;
- After completing the bath procedures, the Malamute must be dried using a hair dryer and a brush. Dry the dog should be at medium temperature so that the air is warm;
- It is important to pay attention to the teeth, ears and claws of the quadruped. Malamutes need to clean their ears very well with a cotton swab pre-soaked in hydrogen peroxide. The procedure is carried out at least once a week;
- It is required to monitor the condition of the claws – trim them once a month. Of course, such a procedure will be necessary in case of grinding the claws on the asphalt when running and walking;
- You need to brush your teeth once a week. To do this, you need to purchase a special paste and brush for brushing your teeth.
Diet
Healthy nutrition is the basis of proper animal care. Despite the fact that the dog has an impressive size, Malamutes require fewer calories than other breeds with the same proportions. It is important that the animal does not overeat as Malamutes are prone to obesity. It is required to provide the dog with a balanced diet.
It is recommended to feed dogs not only ready-made food, but also natural ingredients. The number of feedings depends on the age of the Malamute. A puppy needs three meals a day, and adults need to be fed once a day at the same time.
For puppies up to one month old, only mother’s milk is suitable. Further, the diet should consist of the following products:
- Chicken eggs;
- Boiled fish without bones;
- Vegetables (except potatoes);
- Milk porridge;
- Finely minced meat.
As the dog grows older, ready-made food can be introduced into the diet, which saturates the body with all the necessary vitamins and minerals. It is not allowed to give the dog sweets, smoked meats or spicy foods. This can lead to negative consequences in the body.
Alaskan Malamutes are harmful and capricious. If you treat him with sweets once, the dog may refuse to eat normal food for several days.
Under no circumstances should you feed your dog the following foods:
- Bones;
- Sausage;
- Oil;
- Cheese;
- Salo.
Animals should always have access to clean, fresh water.
Pregnant females should be fed 50 g per pup one month before delivery. A month after the birth of babies, the amount of feed must be reduced to normal.
Malamute health
The average life expectancy of Malamutes is 12-15 years. Despite the innate strength and endurance, animals are prone to certain diseases.
The most common diseases that Malamutes can suffer from are:
- Bloating
- Cataract, glaucoma, retinal atrophy;
- Anemia;
- Diabetes;
- Crayfish;
- hip dysplasia;
- Hypothyroidism.
Very often, genetic pathologies are observed in animals, due to which there is a violation of the absorption of zinc, as a result of which skin lesions begin.
In general, animals are in good health and rarely get sick. They also rarely have genetic disorders. Most Malamutes suffer from dental disease – tartar accumulates on the teeth and develops into an infection of the gums and roots.
It is important to pay attention to the condition of the animal in a timely manner in order to prevent negative consequences. Be sure to consult a veterinarian to avoid serious diseases.
Training and education
Malamutes are considered active and intelligent animals. From birth they are used to being leaders. Therefore, when raising and training an animal, it is important to show firmness, self-confidence.
The nuances of training and education:
- It is necessary to let the dog understand that it has an owner and that he is in charge here, and not the dog. However, the dog will not tolerate aggression and attacks, so you do not need to scold the pet, but encourage it for a correctly executed command. It is best to train a dog in a playful way;
- It is required to gradually increase the load during education. Puppies start training at an early age. It is important to instill in the dog hygiene skills, the habit of responding to a nickname, the ability to execute simple commands;
- It is allowed to go to training grounds from the age of 4 months, when the vaccination quarantine ends. If the pet will live in a big city, it is important to teach the dog to calmly respond to extraneous sounds, passing cars and other sources of harsh noise;
- The pet will be able to easily master long distances for jogging, however, if this is not a test for speed, because malamutes are considered hardy animals, not fast. In these types of competitions, pets are significantly inferior to other breeds of dogs.
The stubbornness of the dog can become a hindrance when training a Malamute, however, thanks to their exceptional intelligence and quick wits, they can execute any commands. Alaskan Malamutes can perform the same command no more than 2-3 times. Dogs of this breed quickly lose interest in training if they are forced to perform the same actions.
Pros and cons of the breed
The Alaskan Malamute is considered an ideal breed for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. The dog is able to become a faithful companion, playmate and travel assistant.
Representatives of this breed are characterized by many advantages:
- Playfulness, cheerfulness;
- Endurance, performance;
- Ability to endure high physical loads;
- Possession of good health, exposure to low temperatures;
- Friendliness, sociability, devotion to the owner;
- Ability to get along with dogs, cats and other pets;
- Attractive appearance;
- Lack of aggression, love of love;
- Good attitude towards children.
However, the breed also has some disadvantages:
- They cannot be good guards because they love all people;
- It is difficult to keep in an apartment due to its large size;
- They love to dig, so they can dig holes all over the garden, dig under the fence and even ruin the floor in the house;
- They do not tolerate heat very well;
- Need high physical activity, intensive training;
- They require constant attention, can be imposed, they do not tolerate loneliness;
- They like to be leaders, tend to make independent decisions;
- Sheds a lot, hard to care for.
The Alaskan Malamute is a good-natured and devoted companion, it only requires effort in maintenance and upbringing. Due to the fact that the animal is very smart and has an independent character, it is extremely difficult to train it.
Malamute is not suitable for people who are not experienced, do not show leadership qualities. Also, do not get a dog for those who cannot pay much attention due to frequent absence from home.
Breeding
Even before you get a four-legged friend, you need to decide whether you will breed or not. It is required to carefully choose a breeding baby, take into account its origin, the quality of the litter and the breeding conditions.
Puberty in females occurs at the age of 8-12 months. The optimal time for mating is considered to be the age of 20 months, in males it starts from 2 years.
Growing a future breeding dog provides for education in accordance with all the rules that are approved for this breed. The individual must have a good mark at the exhibition – «Good» for bitches, «Great» – for males.
It is good if the male has titles, since so many owners select a partner for mating, paying attention to the presence of awards. Many prestigious clubs allow for breeding only individuals that have passed the breeding examination and scored a certain number of points.
Due to heredity, dog behavior is taken into account. Various deviations from the norm are considered hybrid dysgenesis. Deviations include sexual behavior that may become more serious in future generations. It also happens that females who have such disorders not only have difficulty mating, but also do not cope well with maternal functions.
It is permissible for the male to be of any size when mating, even the smallest, but he must be larger than the female. The male should be dominated by a masculine physique, proportional head, and the female – graceful and feminine.
Tips for choosing a puppy
It is recommended to purchase Alaskan Malamute puppies from registered kennels or private breeders, as they will be able to provide documents that confirm that they are purebred and free of any defects.
To quickly accustom a pet to a new owner, you should purchase a puppy aged from 1 to 4 months. If the indicators of the exterior of the animal are very important to you, you should wait until the dog becomes older and it will be possible to predict the size of the Malamute.
Healthy babies are characterized by dark eyes, a lively look, straight and plump paws, a small belly and a thick tail. The color of a small pet is the same as that of an adult.
Pay attention to the coat – it should be thick and fluffy. You can also check the animal for leadership qualities: put a collar on the puppy, and slowly moving away pull the leash, if the pet boldly and confidently follows the new owner, then he is the leader.
What is the price
If the Alaskan Malamute has exhibition potential, its cost will vary within 100 thousand rubles. If you are going to buy a dog without documents, then its price will not be higher than 10-15 thousand.
Such a difference in price is explained by the fact that future leaders and winners of various competitions will produce high-quality offspring, unlike those who do not have documents.
Alaskan malamute – a unique breed that can withstand serious physical exertion. Animals of this breed are incredibly kind and smart. They easily get along with people and get along with other pets.
