A Malamute husky
is often mistaken for the more commonly known Alaskan huskies.
However there is a distinct difference in both appearance and
behavior of these two dogs. The first difference you will notice is
the size of a Malamute
husky. A Malamute is
much bigger than a Siberian husky.
There are Malamutes that are
known to weigh as much as 90 pounds, sometimes even more. Some
people prefer these larger dogs while others will feel more
comfortable with a Malamute
husky that is
somewhere in the middle or lower end of the dog’s typical weight
range.
Size And Weight
Male Malamutes tend to be a lot bigger than females. Females can
measure around 23 inches in height, but can also be bigger than
this; they may weigh 75 pounds or more. Males can weigh between 80
to 85 pounds and can measure up to 26 inches. However there are
sometimes very large dogs that have been bred specifically for a
larger physique.
Many owners prefer the
female Malamute husky
because it is smaller and may be easier to handle. A smaller dog
from this breed is not only easier to handle but is less prone to
hip dysplasia. The smaller dogs of this breed also tend to live
longer, something you want to keep in mind when choosing your Malamute husky.
Coats
It shouldn’t surprise you
that like all Alaskan
huskies, the Malamute husky
has a very thick coat. It has the standard double coat of dogs that
fall into the Northern breed category. If you have ever seen a
Siberian husky then you will notice that the Malamutes coat has a
very different texture from a Siberian. The fur tends to be a little
harsher when you touch it.
The Malamute’s coat can come in a variety of colors, usually with
some white mixed in. Sable, gray, black, and red are some of the
colors that can be mixed in with white on the dog’s coat. Some dogs
are also pure white; these dogs have a very wolf like appearance and
may resemble wolves more than the Siberian husky.
Behavior
These dogs were once used to pull heavy loads, and they are still
sometimes used as sled dogs. Due to their original purpose they have
a tremendous amount of energy and are very strong. It is advisable
not to let these dogs off the leash when taking them out for walks.
This is because once they start running there is no stopping them.
These dogs need plenty of
exercise to stay healthy and be happy. Long walks on a daily basis
are necessary to keep them from becoming destructive. If you are not
assertive or don’t have time to train these dogs then the Malamute husky
is probably not for you.
The Malamute husky
has a tendency to be stubborn or strong willed. For this reason a
lot of obedience training is required early on to ensure that the
dogs behave well. It is best to enroll in an obedience training
class if you have no experience with dog training.
These dogs can also be aggressive towards other dogs of the same
gender. For this reason caution must be exercised when introducing a
Malamute to a household that already has other pets. The Malamute
also has a hunter’s instinct that is more pronounced than other
domesticated dogs.
If you have cats at home this may not be the dog for you. Your
Malamute may want to try and hunt your pet cat, birds, and other
small animals that it sees. A fenced in yard is a must when you have
these dogs as they may not be as welcome when roaming around in your
neighborhood.
Siberian huskies have a tendency to jump over fences; the Malamute
is unlikely to do this. However like the Siberian husky it will dig
avidly. Flower beds, small trees, and bushes are not safe from these
dogs.
So be sure to have some patience when you find your yard looking
less than spectacular thanks to your dog’s tendency to dig. This
breed is however a great family dog, simply because it loves people.
It will make a great pet due to its amiable personality and its
affectionate nature.
Attention: To discover how
YOU can have the Happiest, Healthiest and Best Behaved Siberian Husky,
get a copy of this Siberian Husky Guide
NOW!
