The Alaskan Malamute is the Oldest and Largest Sled Dog Breed

The Alaskan malamute originated in the upper-western part of Alaska. Of the five recognized sled dog breeds, the Alaskan malamute is the largest and the oldest breed. They receive the name Malamute from the native Inuit tribe, Mahlemuts who for the last 2000-3000 years have bred and used the breed for hunting and sled dog purposes. Although they are very much loved and well taken care of, they are very much a work dog.

Due to their ability to travel long distances and withstand freezing temperatures, the Alaskan malamute was highly popular and valuable during the Klondike Gold Rush. During this time other dog breed that could tolerate the cold weather were brought to Alaska to use as sled dogs. Mixed breeding began and the Alaskan malamute was nearly wiped out. To find an original breed, one would have to travel far from populated areas.

Milton and Eva Seeley along with others began programs to save the original breed. It is because of their efforts the breed survives today. The Alaskan Malamute was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1935. Since then the Alaskan Malamute Club of America and the UK have been established, and the breed has been recognized by FCI, UKC, KCGB, CKC, NKC, NZKC, CKC, APRI and ACR.

Alaskan Malamutes weight between 85 and 100 pounds and have a height between 22 and 26 inches at the shoulders. Female Malamutes are smaller than the males. They have a durable, dense, double coat and their tail curls over their back. Their nose and legs are often white and they have either a light or a dark mask. The remaining coat can be shades of white, white and black, sable, wolf sable, wolf gray or red.

Alaskan Malamutes are highly intelligent and very loyal dogs. They are good with children that know how to play with a large dog breed and are affectionate to their families, being most loyal to their master. They need firm and controlled training and socialization with both people and other dogs.