Giant Alaskan Malamute Size: A Comprehensive Guide

The Giant Alaskan Malamute is a majestic breed known for its massive size. On average, males can weigh between 95 and 145 pounds.

These dogs are not only large but also muscular, with a sturdy build that's perfect for pulling sleds. They have a deep chest and well-sprung ribs.

In terms of height, males can reach up to 26 inches at the shoulder.

Alaskan Malamutes are indeed giant dogs, and understanding their average size is essential for new owners. Typically, they weigh between 75 to 85 pounds.

Their height is also quite impressive, reaching up to 25 inches tall. This large-breed dog has a wide body, pointed ears, and a curled tail, making them a striking sight.

If you're wondering how big your Malamute will get, there are a few factors to consider: their age, genetics, and paw size. Let's break it down further.

Here are the three ways to predict your Malamute's final size:

Alaskan Malamutes are prone to certain health issues due to their purebred nature. Regular veterinary care is crucial to assess and screen for these conditions.

Their veterinarian can give personalized advice on maximizing their health, and help prevent or manage issues like eye cataracts, zinc-responsive dermatosis, and hip dysplasia.

Feeding a quality diet and providing plenty of exercise are vital steps in helping your Malamute stay healthy and happy.

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The Alaskan Malamute is a lovable member of your family with a loyal temperament. They are pack animals that require a strong leader, so be prepared to take charge and provide guidance.

These dogs are incredibly affectionate and filled with playful personality traits, but they can also be stubborn at times. With the right training and commitment from their owners, they thrive as loyal companions.

One thing that might surprise you about the Alaskan Malamute is that they don't make great guard dogs. Their naturally friendly nature leads them to greet most strangers as friends rather than foes.

For another approach, see: What Is the Most Loyal Dog Breed

Their intimidating size might be deterrent enough to would-be intruders, but it's essential to remember that they are not naturally protective of their owners.

Here's a quick rundown of the Alaskan Malamute's characteristics:

Their exercise needs are high, so be prepared to take them on regular walks and provide plenty of physical activity. They are also highly intelligent, which makes them relatively easy to train.

To care for an Alaskan Malamute, you need to take them in for regular veterinary care. This will help assess their current health problems and screen for possible future health issues.

Feeding your Malamute a quality diet is crucial for their overall health. A good diet will help prevent common health issues like eye cataracts, zinc-responsive dermatosis, and hip dysplasia.

Exercise is also vital for your Malamute's health. They need plenty of physical activity to stay happy and healthy.

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To keep your giant Alaskan Malamute at a healthy weight, it's essential to feed them a quality diet. Feed your Malamute several smaller meals per day to prevent overeating and bloat.

Your veterinarian can help plan a consistent diet and portion schedule based on your Malamute's age, weight, and activity level. This is crucial to avoid excessive weight gain or canine obesity, which can lead to other health problems.

The Alaskan Malamute's history is a testament to its adaptability and strength. The breed was originally developed by the Mahlemiut Inuit tribe in northwestern Alaska.

These dogs were bred to pull heavy sleds, hunt seals and polar bears, and even serve as decoys when bear hunting. Their versatility made steadiness and strength their strong points.

The Alaskan Malamute's origins date back to a time when man and animal worked together to survive in the harshest conditions.

Additional reading: When to Breed a Female Dog

The Alaskan Malamute has a rich history that dates back to the Mahlemiut Inuit tribe in northwestern Alaska.

The breed was originally developed to be a domesticated dog, with wolf lineage many generations back, but it's been bred by the Mahlemiut tribe for centuries.

These dogs were used to pull heavy sleds in teams, making them perfect for hunting expeditions and other tasks that required strength and stamina.

Their versatility in working made steadiness and strength the breed's strong points, unlike the smaller Siberian husky which was bred for speed.

On a similar theme: Straight Backed German Shepherds

The Alaskan Malamute was also put to work during the Klondike Gold Rush, where prospectors recognized their strength and stamina as a valuable asset.

In the 1920s, the interest in competitive sled dog racing led to further breeding and development of the Malamute breed.

Only one variant of the Malamute, the Kotzebue, received early AKC recognition in 1935.

After World War II, the breed was in serious decline, with some sources estimating that the Malamute had a population of only 30 in 1947.

The AKC expanded the breed's recognition to include the Hinman and M’Loot strains to ensure its viability.

There is no such thing as a 'giant' malamute, as all malamutes go back to the same foundational stock.

Breeding malamutes for size alone can lead to dogs that look off and not quite like a malamute, and their health suffers as a result.

Malamutes that are bred for size tend to command inflated prices due to their size and perceived rarity.

To produce larger malamutes, breeders often select breeding pairs based on size alone, rather than considering fundamental qualities like health, structure, type, and temperament.

Consider reading: Are Malamutes Good Guard Dogs