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HomeOur blogAlaskan Malamute - Origin, characteristics and behavior of this race
Alaskan Malamute - Origin, characteristics and behavior of this race
Among the wide variety of races that exist, getting lost among the distinctive aspects of one or the other is very easy. The search for a new canine companion can be complicated, especially if the care and characteristics that each of these species have are not known exactly. Therefore, en this article we are going to introduce you to the great Alaskan Malamute
Either because of its size, need for exercise, food, space, hygiene or affection, knowing what the ideal pet for any person should be a fundamental aspect before choosing the one who could become the best friend. That is why we have prepared a special article about a particularly interesting race, in addition to beautiful appearance. It is about Alaskan Malamute, whose recognition, until now, has been for being an excellent sledpy shooting and possessing a great strength for this activity. You will find, then, all the information you need to know this race better, such as the care, characteristics, history, health and training that is required, among others.
Origin
The Arctic is the place where this canine breed has the beginning, where the existing tribes raised it, first, around the 19th century. His strength, large size and imposing appearance made him exceed as The most experienced dog in pulling the sleds. Although it was not the fastest, it could move up to 70 kilos of weight during a trip. The name adopted by these dogs is due to the existence of Escaimales named «Mahlamuits" either "Mahlemuts«, Which used him for the transport of food and articles necessary for their survival in these icy areas.
In addition to being an excellent sled shooter, these dogs were also recognized in the tribes for their hunting skill. He was frequently watched in battle with polar bears, wolves or Morsas, among other Alaska animals, and exit victorious. This, in addition, allowed travelers to be safe, so the protection of the tribes was also another function that effectively performed this breed. As such, The Alaskan Malamute were recognized in 1935 approximately. And since then they have become popular for their beauty and character.
Body characteristics of Alaskan Malamute
A muscular dog, strong and robust. This presents the physical appearance of Alaskan Malamute. Because it is a sledding dog, it has a remarkable firmness in its context, providing the image of tenacity and strength that needs the activity that performs since its inception: the transport of sled with heavy load. The standard ideal size of these dogs is 93 centimeters. However, males reach up to 65 centimeters to the cross, while females average a stature of 63 cm. In relation to weight, a male Alaskan can reach 70 kilos with ease and females settled between 48 and 63 kilos.
It has a proportionally adjusted head to its physical texture. Long and wide. It always remains erect, which provides an aspect of great security and majesty. A curious look is what characterizes the eyes of this race, which are medium and almond -shaped. Commonly in dark or brown color. Their ears are presented oval, down. They are small and with round tips. However, when they are erect, they point out. The lower extremities of this race are as prominent as the rest of your body. Firm, muscular and covered by his dense fur. Their legs have a kind of thick pad that provides greater comfort and ease to move. Regarding the Alaskan Malamute fur, it can be perceived abundant and divided into two. An inner, softer and fierce, and another external layer. The outer layer is thicker and rough. Both protect it from the low temperatures in which it was raised. The color of the fur of this breed can be varied. The most common) can be presented unicolor (black and white) as bicolors, or with different combinations of these shades.
Behavior
The character of the Alaskan Malamute race can present some very detailed features. To a large extent, this aspect depends on both your education and its environment. Let's see why: it is, in principle, a serene dog, sure of himself and balanced. It has a quiet behavior most of the time. This does not mean that it is a confident dog, on the contrary. When perceiving some danger or suspicion of risk around you, it immediately acts. It is a dog that does not usually bark unnecessarily, but warns of any scenario that requires it in order to protect yours. So it is characterized as a good company. It has an imposing presence, and thus remains protecting your home and loved people. This breed has a tendency to be destructive if you feel overwhelmed by the confinement. That is, to live in a small space, such as an apartment, is not suitable for Alaskan. As for coexistence with other dogs, it can be a bit distrustful at the beginning and feel invaded. However, this will be happening according to the days and as long as he does not feel attacked, he will remain calm. Subsequently, it will adapt and live quietly with the other dogs.
In relation to people, although it has a serious appearance, This breed is usually playful, affectionate and very happy, so Living with new friends is not a problem Once you know them. The need for outdoor exercises and activities is indispensable so that this dog keeps its energy channeled and does not become a rebel, destructive and depressive animal. Therefore you should consider the time you have to dedicate to the walks of these animals. The loyalty, sweetness and protection towards its owners are the main characteristics that define the personality of this race. However, at some times he can develop a long -term behavior. In most cases, each of the aspects related to the behavior and character of Alaskan Malamute will be determined by the education provided to the breed from an early age.
Alaskan Malamute training
Due to its origin and genetics, the dogs of this breed can present an aggressive behavior and always be defensive if they are not properly educated. If you want to enjoy a sweet, balanced and full pet, the ideal is Start training Alaska Malamute from the first weeks of lifeThis will guarantee, as it grows, a dog of good behavior.
One of the aspects that should be considered as a priority is to teach him to live and socialize with other animals, especially those of lower size than him. This is because, by its nature, this race tends to be a hunter par excellence, and identifies the smallest animals as their prey. Learning to live together will avoid running behind any animal when you go out. So this is a key aspect that must be trained. For greater security, the modality of belt walks can be adopted. However, this can be counterproductive, because it is an animal with large size that can drag its owner easily at the time of fleeing. The most convenient thing is to constantly practice dog education to avoid these episodes. Although it is an intelligent and obedient dog, it is usually very independent, and this can influence its training. Being a patient and making use of positive reinforcement will provide the best results in dog education. In addition, performing short practices (10 to 15 minutes) constantly will be enough for the dog to acquire the necessary knowledge based on good behavior. And we must not forget the basic orders such as sitting, staying and walking with us. All this will be very useful in the routine of these animals.
Health
In general, Alaskan Malamute is usually a very healthy animal, strong and robust. However, like other races, your health can be affected by diseases caused by genetic causes or external factors.
None of these diseases are exclusive to the race, that is, they can appear in this or any other canine. The most common are:
Elbow and hip dysplasia
Both pathologies are hereditary, that is, that will depend largely on the descendants of the dog. It is a malformation in hip joint or animal elbow. This disease has a greater trend in large and weight dogs. Hip dysplasia is usually more frequent than elbow in Alaskan dogs.
Ocular diseases
Glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy and corneal dystrophy, are the most common conditions that can affect the visual health of this breed. They are of genetic origin in most cases. These pathologies can be of progressive deterioration for the dog's vision and even produce that it loses this sense completely.
Loss of muscle mass
Already in advanced and medium -age dogs, this condition may appear very frequently. Also accompanied by lack of stability and movements coordination. This cause may be associated with multiple factors. It is usually due to a polyneuropathy, which the veterinarian should determine.
Epilepsy
These dogs at some point could present continuous seizures. Which would affect its neurological system. In any case, when observing symptoms of any of these diseases, the most sensible thing is to visit a veterinarian periodically. In this way, the way to treat these pathologies can be determined at an early age.
Alaskan Malamute care
Because it is a rustic, strong and muscular dog, the care required by Alaskan Malamute is usually not as special as in other more delicate breeds. However, it is necessary to maintain some conditions to take care of your health and well -being, especially during your puppy stage. It could be said that in the first months of Alaskan Malamute life is where the foundations will focus to continue his adult life with a good state of health and energy.
Let's see below some care that is needed to ensure the well -being of this great friend:
Feeding
As is common in large breed dogs, Food plays a fundamental role To prevent the dog from suffering from obesity, in addition to maintaining the care of his bright fur and preventing him from falling. The joints of these dogs need to constantly strengthen, and ensure that within their diet are the elements that help you in this process is, without a doubt, vital. Maintaining a balanced diet, with a food that provides the necessary requirements for your good health and also provides the satiety that the dog needs, is the most recommended. Not exceeding the amount of food is equally necessary, since this produces supercharging in the animal that can generate, in addition to obesity, other conditions to your health.
Exercises
Combining Alaskan Malamute feeding with exercises is an indispensable task to ensure the health of our dog. Recall that it is a very energetic animal and also accustomed to life outdoors, so of not receiving walks or exercise routines I could constantly develop in it not only obesity, or some other pathology, but also a rebel and aggressive behavior. Three daily walks, accompanied by games or 15 -minute training, or a long walk a day, will be enough to keep these dogs calm and in good shape. Exceeding the exercises is not recommended either, as they can generate in the animal joint problems.
Veterinarian
Periodic visits to the veterinarian, fulfilling the vaccination and deworming scheme, is also indispensable to keep this race free of diseases.
Affection and attention
Although it is a balanced and independent race, the love and the company of its owners cannot be missing. Feeling unattended, you can start causing damage to get attention. So dedicate a good part of your time to show your love to Alaskan Malamute that you have a pet.
Bathroom and hygiene
Although it is a rustic dog, at least one bathroom requires once every two weeks or when it is really dirty. Brushing twice a week will be enough to keep your fur well cared for and brightly.
Conclusion
A strong, intelligent and loyal muscular race is what characterizes the canines Alaskan Malamute. It is a dog that, in addition to being excellent for hunting and for the transport of up to 70 kilos in sled, can incessantly protect its owner and home. Education in these dogs cannot be missing, because to a large extent their behavior will depend. So consider whether you have the necessary time and patience to grant adequate training to this dog in case you want to adopt it as a pet. What is known is that love and energy will never be missing in your life if you have this race in mind. Meet other dog breeds:
