Alaskan Malamutes: Giants of the Arctic

Alaskan Malamutes are a direct descendant of arctic wolves and are considered one of the most primitive dogs on the planet. Recent studies have shown a very close genetic similarity to that of primitive canines as well as extremely similar bone structure. Along with it's primitive roots the dog is an extremely old breed dating back at least 3,000 years. Recently found dog remains, 30,000 years old, closely fit that of the Alaskan Malamute though further testing is needed to determine how close.

The breed was originally used for transportation, using their strong builds and endless energy to pull not only light travel sleds but also heavy freight and supplies. The Mahlemuit Indians were the first to use the breed, hauling food and other supplies for great distances. Later the hard working dogs were utilized during the Alaskan Gold Rush of 1896. The gold prospectors needed viable transportation for themselves and there supplies. The area is often much too difficult and cold for the conventional horse and wagon of the time so the dogs were used. Once gold was found Alaskan Malamutes were again the prime candidates to haul the load back to the coast for shipment. The breed was also used for Rear Admiral Richard Byrd's expedition to the South Pole.

The Alaskan Malamute is an incredibly gorgeous dog who's looks, unlike many other breeds, do not fade as they grow older. They have a proud and majestic stance and general appearance with nearly every trait promoting the image of elegance. The American Kennel Club's general appearance of the breed standard states that, "the Alaskan Malamute, one of the oldest Arctic sled dogs, is a powerful and substantially built dog with a deep chest and strong, well-muscled body. The Malamute stands well over the pads, and this stance gives the appearance of much activity and a proud carriage, with head erect and eyes alert showing interest and curiosity. The head is broad. Ears are triangular and erect when alerted. The muzzle is bulky, only slight diminishing in width from root to nose. The muzzle is not pointed or long, yet not stubby. The coat is thick with a coarse guard coat of sufficient length to protect a woolly undercoat. Malamutes are of various colors. Face markings are a distinguishing feature. These consist of a cap over the head, the face either all white or marked with a bar and/or mask. The tail is well furred, carried over the back, and has the appearance of a waving plume.

The Malamute must be a heavy boned dog with sound legs, good feet, deep chest and powerful shoulders, and have all of the other physical attributes necessary for the efficient performance of his job. The gait must be steady, balanced, tireless and totally efficient. He is not intended as a racing sled dog designed to compete in speed trials. The Malamute is structured for strength and endurance, and any characteristic of the individual specimen, including temperament, which interferes with the accomplishment of this purpose, is to be considered the most serious of faults".

Though the AKC breed standard states that 85 pounds is the ideal weight for a standard Alaskan Malamute, they often grow much larger. Giant Alaskan Malamutes, often called M'loot Malamutes, can tip the scales at over 200 pounds. These large Malamutes can also be in the high 30s, measured by inch, at the shoulder. M'loot Malamutes are believed to come from a different sub-breed of the standard Alaskan Malamutes.

The breed is often used in weight pulls for their incredible strength. In a weight pull the dogs are harnessed to a small sled or wagon which is then loaded with weight to see how much the dog can pull. Malamutes compete well in these events against extremely muscular competitors, such as pit bulls. Standard sized Malamutes in these events will pull over 2,000 pounds with some claiming to pull nearly 4,000 pounds.

This is an amazing gorgeous, loyal, and strong breed which is suitable for most families. They do require a large amount of exercise and attention, but are worth the effort. The dogs can fair well in most any climate. In hot weather it is suggested to keep a kids pool for them to play in. They are the giants of the arctic, built for strength and bred for compassion.