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Posts Tagged ‘Malamutes’

Alaskan Husky

The Alaskan Malamute has a rather fascinating history that dates back nearly 3,000 years ago to the Inuit “Mahlemuits” tribe of Alaska. As the largest and most powerful of the Nordic sled dogs, Malamutes were coveted by the Alaskans during the 1896 gold rush for their ability to pull hefty loads in extreme conditions. During that time, teams of four could carry thousands of pounds of supplies to neighboring camps. These dogs lived alongside the Inuit as companions, and even as pets today they exhibit a strong affinity for people and the “pack” mentality.

Alaskan Malamutes are a very affectionate breed of dog that thrive on human companionship. Ideally, your pet will be able to come and go as it pleases through a doggie-door, having the freedom to lounge outside in the shade or be at the heart of human interaction on command. Speaking of “commands,” Mals can be stubborn dogs if you don’t take the time to train them when they’re young. Don’t worry: they are intelligent and quick learners if you use positive rewards. Be sure to let them know who’s the “Alpha Dog” in your house early on!

This breed gets bored easily and needs a lot of exercise. Your Malamute may be a digger, so it’s best to set up a shaded area where your dog can dig his paws into the cool dirt if need be. If you’re looking for a guard dog, then forget it; this breed enjoys humans far too much! While the males are sometimes aggressive with other males, Mals are said to be good family pets. If you have cats, small dogs or farm animals, then you may want to reconsider getting this sort of breed. Perhaps it’s the hunter instinct that emerges, but this native Alaskan canine does not typically get along with other small mammals. One of the things you’ll come to love about your Mal is its “Chewbacca” woofs. While they’re a generally quiet dog, they do like to talk a bit, and sometimes even howl like a wolf!

Early training is key for a well-behaved Alaskan Malamute. This breed is generally well-behaved, although, if left untrained, the dogs may use their restless energy to dig holes, hop fences, walk poorly on leashes and stubbornly refuse to obey your command. Since Malamutes have a pack mentality, you have to work at asserting yourself as “the Alpha Dog.” Negativity makes the dogs sullen, but treats will win their affection and obedience for life! If you are looking to make your dog into a sled dog, then you can begin harnessing as young as six months. There is an innate instinct that guides the dogs to pull, but there are books you can buy that give a more specific set of instructions, including commands to give the dog sled team (outside of the stereotypical “MUSH!” call).

If you think you can handle a little bit of digging and a bit more exercise, then you can begin searching for a breeder. To buy a Malamute, you can look for a local chapter of the Alaskan Malamute Rescue Association. You can expect to pay around $700 for a pure-bred puppy. The easiest way to find a dog is usually through the local newspaper. However, you may also want to check a site like PuppyFind.org, where you can find both puppies and older dogs who are up for adoption.