Alaskan Malamute

The Malamute is bigger and heavier, usually 34 to 38 kg against roughly 16 to 27 kg for a Husky, with a broader head and a plumed tail carried over the back. Malamutes were built to haul freight, Huskies to pull lighter loads at speed. Malamute eyes are always brown, while Huskies can have blue or odd-colored eyes. Both shed heavily and both need secure fencing.

It can survive with careful management, but it will not thrive. The dense double coat makes overheating a serious risk above about 25°C (77°F). Owners in warm regions keep their dogs in cooled rooms during the day, exercise only at dawn and after dark, and provide shade, cooling mats and shallow water to lie in. If summers are regularly hot where you live, a short-coated breed is a kinder choice.

Howling and woo-woo talking are normal for the breed. Malamutes use their voice to express excitement, boredom and greetings, and many join in with sirens or singing. They bark far less than most breeds. Constant howling when left alone, however, often signals boredom or separation stress, and more exercise before you leave plus a long-lasting chew usually helps.

Some live peacefully with a cat they grew up with, but many never become trustworthy with small animals, and even a dog that ignores its own cat may chase the neighbor's. Prey drive in this breed is strong and was once useful for hunting. If you have cats, look for an adult Malamute with a known history of living with them, or plan for permanent management.

Fit adults in weight-pull competitions move carts or sleds many times their own body weight over short distances, and freighting teams once hauled heavy supplies across long routes. For everyday fun, a healthy adult comfortably pulls a person on a scooter or a light cart. Build up gradually with a proper pulling harness, and wait until the dog is about 18 months old before serious work.