The Alaskan Malamute Personality

One outstanding feature of the Alaskan Malamute breed is its superficial resemblance to the wolf. The stories that link Malamute-wolf crosses to today's breed are sketchy at best, and the myths that surround such a romantic history have been pretty well disputed. In fact, the Alaskan Malamute has been recognized as a pure bred dog by the AKC since before World War II.

Historically, the Malamute has been a true working dog. TheMahlemut natives of Alaska used their dogs to pull sledges, and two of the Admiral Byrd expeditions used Malamutes for freighting and pack dogs. It is common place for Malamute breeders to advertise that they work their dogs as well as show them, for most Malamute breeders are dedicated to retaining the breeds original conformation for working as well as for showing.

Despite the breeds fame as a solid working dog (most can carry half their weight back-pack style) Alaskan Malamutes have been known to give their owners more than a few moments of frustration either in the obedience ring or the backyard. Unlike some of the more obviously obedient breeds in the Working Group, every Malamute typically has a mind of its own, when being obedience-trained, and will defy any command on a mere whim. Many novice dog-people and ignorant breeders (who should know better) mistake this blatant stubbornness for sheer stupidity. At least it seems they can cope better with that diagnosis. On the contrary, the Malamute is highly intelligent to the point of craftiness. Although its likely that your Malamute would rather investigate that strange noise he heard than the familiar one (your voice), Malamutes can and do work beautifully in obedience, and such work is highly rewarding for both dog and owner.

In obedience training it is important to keep the sessions short, and never let the Malamute have his way in the end. Always make sure that the last thing your dog does is done your way, otherwise you will have trouble establishing just who is in command. (Incidentally, this is true of any breed.)

Perhaps you wonder how an 85 pound dog that stands some 25 inches or so at the withers (Breed Standard) would conduct himself around children who inevitably pull tails, roll on the floor, and so on. Because the breed is fairly large and Malamutes have excellent dispositions they make ideal pets for children. And what greater fun than to hook your dog to a wagon or sled and let him do the work that comes so natural to the breed? Of course, if there are no youngsters around, your Malamute would be just as happy pulling an adult!

Above all else, the Malamute is a true people-dog and becomes socialized quickly. For this reason, few Malamutes are one-man dogs, but rather are affectionate, dependable and even-tempered. Most have a distinct way of talking in a rumbling voice instead of a bark, although they do bark on occasion. It is not at all unusual to see a Malamute with tail down, ears back, when being scolded, only to have him lick you, with wagging tail, the very next minute - there are no grudges or hurt feelings for this breed.

Many dog people have dubbed the Alaskan Malamute the personality dog and some breeders refer to their dogs as public relations dogs. It isn't difficult to understand why. The Malamute personality is quite aptly described as gentle strength coupled with generous portions of affection and companionship.

©1973 by Peggy Hindman as printed in Dog Fancy magazine

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