Alaskan Malamute Quick Facts

Did you know?

George Lucas had an Alaskan Malamute called Indiana around the time he was making “Star Wars”. Indiana’s frequent Woo’s and other Alaskan Malamute vocalizations were the inspiration for Chewbacca’s Wookie language. George’s Alaskan Malamute Indiana, or Indy as he was frequently called, was also the inspiration for the name of Indiana Jones!

There is no such breed as a "Giant Malamute". Their natural size ranges from 22" to 27" at the shoulder, weighing 70 to 100 pounds. Selectively breeding for size alone has created what some people tout as a "Giant". The inherent health problems of any large breed is usually exacerbated by this breeding strategy.

Alaskan Malamutes can withstand a wide range of temperatures and live happily. They will be less active in the heat of summer, but with enough shade and fresh water have no problem acclimatizing to the weather.

As much as Alaskan Malamutes like people, they tend to dislike other dogs, especially dogs of the same sex.

While it is not impossible to obedience train an Alaskan Malamute, it will be more difficult than with some other breeds. Their intelligence and quick learning ability makes repeating exercises very boring to them and they tend to have the attitude "What's in it for me?".

The Alaskan Malamute is not a "barker", but some of them will "talk" a great deal. Some of this will indeed sound and feel like a "conversation" and can be quite amusing.