The Alaskan malamute is an old breed of dog originating from Alaska. It was breed for pulling sleds, especially heavy ones. You can confirm this by their muscular exteriour built for endurance and strenght. This makes them good at pulling heavier sleds for longer distances, but makes them disadvantageous for shorter and speedy sled races.

Average lifespann: 10-14 years

Height:

• Males: 64cm or 25 inches
• Females: 58cm or 23 inches

Weight:

• Males: 38kg or 84 lbs
• Females: 34kg or 75lbs

Looks and characteristics:
The Alaskan malamute has a look that is optimal for their original purpose. They are heavily built to be immensely strong with a deep chest and strong shoulders. Their thick and waterproof double coated fur is good at withstanding the cold during the artic winters. They have small erected ears and carry their furred tails plumed over their backs. Compared to other sled dogs who were breed for speed, these dogs are very heavy with a formidable structure.

Colors:
Gray, sable, black, or red, always with white, as well as all white and brown

History and origins:
Being one of the oldest of the sled Dog breeds, the alaskan malamute originates from Alaska. They were used by the inuit people Mahlemiut. It is believed that they are the descendants of domestic wolves accompanying Paleolithic hunters over 4000 years ago.

Over the years with the Mahlemiuts these dogs have been used as hunting dogs as well as the benefical capacity to pull heavy supplies. Today they are still mainly used as sled dogs and really active compantion dogs.

Temparement:
These dogs are not for the beginners as they require experienced owners. They are said to be friendly to humans but can have a harder time getting along with other dogs, especially dogs of the same gender.

Health:
Recommended Health Tests From the National Breed Club:

• Hip Evaluation
• Polyneuropathy DNA Test
• Ophthalmologist Evaluation