My Dog Training Secrets 

Alaskan Malamutes were originally bred as a working dog. They were given jobs of pulling sledges, carrying packs, and (according to some) used as baby sitters by the nomadic tribe that originated the breed. Alaskan Malamutes are fun dogs for sport, work, and family activities. Alaskan Malamute puppies are rambunctious, but at the same time they provide you with lively entertainment until they mellow out as adults. Alaskan Malamute puppies need a great deal of attention and are happiest running.

Alaskan malamutes are typically white with black, red or gray shadings. This dog breed also has an off-white undercoat. Alaskan Malamutes have strong, big-boned, wolf-like frames covered in soft double-thick coats. Their wide heads have rounded skulls, large muzzles, triangular ears and black noses. The Alaskan Malamute is 22 to 25 in tall at the shoulder and weighs 65 to 85 lbs. and usually live for 10 to 12 years.

Alaskan Malamute puppies may be cute, but pet rescues and humane society organizations get them too often as Alaskan Malamutes tend to howl, dig, challenge authority, and be quite mischievous. Sled dogs are capable at showing, working, and pulling but can be difficult to train in obedience.

Alaskan Malamutes can adapt quickly and easily to different living environments. In addition, they are loyal, affectionate and playful dogs; they love being around people, especially children but they are also highly independent. Alaskan Malamutes have tremendous strength and stamina and therefore require an owner with experience and strength to apply the brakes. Alaskan Malamutes need vigorous daily exercise and attention. They should be given the opportunity to go on a long walk, a run or a mush.

Puppies are a lot of hard work and need obedience training, puppy classes and a firm loving hand to learn how to grow into a well mannered adult. Both Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes are two separate breeds not to be mistaken for the same dog. Puppies should be purchased only from breeders who test their breeding stock for hip dysplasia, dwarfism, and hypothyroidism. Malamutes can also be victims of day blindness, a decreased ability to see in bright light.

Puppies should be introduced to the concept of pulling at three to four months of age. One method of doing this is to harness the puppy and attach the tug line to a light weight, such as a small log or small tire.

Malamutes may also dig to escape a fenced yard, and have been known to dig escape tunnels underneath houses. They are generally very loving towards people, but there have been a few instances of aggression towards people. Malamutes are powerful animals with a deep chest and outstanding stamina. They weigh 85 to 125 lbs.

Malamutes are designed to be the working sled dog of the North, therefore it should be heavy-boned, powerfully built, compact, with sound legs, good feet, deep chest, powerful shoulders, steady balanced, tireless gait. This dog is NOT a racing sled dog. Malamutes are sensitive to diet. They are enthusiastic about food but eat less than you would expect them too for their size. Malamutes like their own place like a crate to be alone. Open the crate and take them outside to go to the bathroom.

Males can be dominant so early training and socialization is key. Their immense desire to please makes them terrific students. Malamutes have extraordinary capacities for endurance and are great dogs for dedicated obedience training.

The Malamute needs lots of consistency of love and training, but given these will prove to be a great addition to a home prepared to handle a large dog.