Alaskan Malamute

Like every breed, the Alaskan Malamute is not the right fit for every home. Based on the breed’s typical traits:

• Use positive, reward-based training with a firm but fair attitude and clear boundaries.
• Teach them to walk on a lead and harness for times when close control is needed.
• Practise recall, but do not rely on it outdoors when there is something to chase.
• Socialise them early with other dogs, people, animals and new experiences.
• If you are a first-time owner or not an experienced trainer, ask an accredited trainer for help.

• Children

  Usually better with older, calmer children.

• Other dogs

  Varies with the individual dog.

• Cats and small pets

  Often has a strong instinct to chase small animals.

• Flats and smaller homes

  Usually needs a roomy home.

• Garden

  A secure garden is strongly advised.

• Being left alone

  Usually copes only with short periods alone.

• First-time owners

  Best with an experienced owner.

Not yet reviewed by a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice: speak to your vet about your own dog’s health.

• Polyneuropathy

  PDSA lists idiopathic polyneuropathy, a genetic disorder affecting the nerves, and recommends screening breeding dogs. The Royal Kennel Club lists a DNA test for Alaskan Malamute polyneuropathy (AMPN) as a minimum test before breeding.

• Day blindness (cone degeneration)

  A sensitivity to bright light that affects vision. A DNA test for cone degeneration is part of the Royal Kennel Club's best-practice testing.

• Hip and elbow dysplasia

  In hip dysplasia the joint does not fit together perfectly, which eventually leads to arthritis. The Royal Kennel Club recommends hip testing under the BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme and elbow testing under the BVA/KC Elbow Dysplasia Scheme.

• Cataracts

  A clouding of the lens of the eye that affects vision. Eye testing under the BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme screens breeding dogs for inherited eye conditions.

• Chondrodysplasia

  A condition in which cartilage and bone develop incorrectly. Puppies can be screened by X-ray between 5 and 12 weeks of age.

• Hypothyroidism

  An underactive thyroid, which can cause problems with weight, skin and energy levels.

• Bloating

  The breed is prone to bloating and stomach problems. Purina suggests smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise the risk.

Responsible breeders and rescues are happy to talk about health, and any pressure to decide quickly is a reason to walk away. Before taking a Alaskan Malamute home, it is reasonable to ask about:

• Health testing of the parents. Ask which health tests the parents have had for conditions known in the breed, and to see the results.
• Veterinary and vaccination records. Puppies should have had a first vaccination and a vet check, with records you can take home.
• Microchip information. In England, Scotland and Wales puppies must be microchipped and registered by eight weeks old. Ask who the chip is registered to and how the transfer works.
• Registration paperwork. Registration papers, where they apply, record pedigree. They do not by themselves prove health or how a puppy was raised.

There are two costs: bringing a Alaskan Malamute home, and looking after one well. Puppy prices depend on the breeder, health testing and demand; the adverts below show what sellers are asking today.

Ongoing costs are the ones new owners most often underestimate: food, insurance (which usually rises with age), routine vet care, vaccinations and parasite treatment, dental care, grooming, training, bedding and equipment, and boarding or a sitter for holidays. Budget for the whole of the dog’s life, typically from 10 years, not just the first year.

If you have decided the Alaskan Malamute suits your life, take the same care choosing where your dog comes from. Meet the puppy in person, see it with its mother, and look at how the litter is raised.

• Check who you are dealing with: every Mypetzilla advert shows the seller type and what we have checked.
• Ask about health testing, vaccinations and the microchip before you commit.
• Take your time. Do not be rushed by deposits or "last one left" stories.
• Meet in person before paying anything, and keep conversations on Mypetzilla.

Alaskan Malamutes do come up for adoption, through rescue organisations, breed rescues and private rehoming, often because an owner’s circumstances have changed rather than any fault of the dog. An adult dog arrives as a known quantity: its size, coat and character are already on show.

Rescues will usually talk you through the dog’s history, any medical care, and the home it needs, including children, other animals and time alone. Be honest about your circumstances: a good rescue would rather place a dog once, well.