Look Before You Leap!
Malamutes are truly amazing dogs. But, they aren't for everyone! That independent streak can hit at the exact wrong time; their intelligence can find creative outlets you don't find quite as amusing as they do; their strong sense of pack means good doggie sense and understanding of pack dynamics, socialization and just generally learning how to responsibly manage dog-to-dog interactions is imperative; and their lack of sense of boundaries mean they aren't a 'hang around' sort of dog like some are used to. If there is something interesting on the horizon - or even if your cherished dog is just plain bored (and malamute bore rather easily) - you can bet your malamute will be off to check it out! and it is your job to prevent that from happening.
We won't even pretend to cover all that it means to live with a malamute here, but we have found some darned good links out there that realistically cover the joys - and trials! - of malamute ownership. You can find some of those links here:
As well as getting your hands on any book about malamutes you can; talk to everyone with experience with malamutes you can; and just keep on learning! all you can before taking the leap.
And go into this with an open mind. As beautiful and alluring as a malamute is, you have to be sure they are right for you. Every dog, every breed, has their pros and cons. There is a reason there are so many breeds out there - every dog family has their unique needs, and the various breeds have evolved over time to meet those needs under very specific circumstances. So some dogs and breeds are perfect for some homes; but no dog or breed is perfect for every home.
No one is likely to be running their malamute in the Arctic or living a subsistence existence; but the traits that enabled a malamute to live in just such surroundings for so many millenia are still part of the malamute's heart and soul. Look deeply and honestly at these traits before adding a malamute to your home. For some, they are the perfect companion - as they are a true partner, and for the right family a never-ending source of so much joy. For others ... not so much! and that is ok. The important thing is learning more about the adventure before you bring home that cute fluffy ball of fuzz! and learn all you can. Because even if a malamute is indeed right for you, that means you are prepared for a lifetime of learning!
We won't even pretend to cover all that it means to live with a malamute here, but we have found some darned good links out there that realistically cover the joys - and trials! - of malamute ownership. You can find some of those links here:
As well as getting your hands on any book about malamutes you can; talk to everyone with experience with malamutes you can; and just keep on learning! all you can before taking the leap.
And go into this with an open mind. As beautiful and alluring as a malamute is, you have to be sure they are right for you. Every dog, every breed, has their pros and cons. There is a reason there are so many breeds out there - every dog family has their unique needs, and the various breeds have evolved over time to meet those needs under very specific circumstances. So some dogs and breeds are perfect for some homes; but no dog or breed is perfect for every home.
No one is likely to be running their malamute in the Arctic or living a subsistence existence; but the traits that enabled a malamute to live in just such surroundings for so many millenia are still part of the malamute's heart and soul. Look deeply and honestly at these traits before adding a malamute to your home. For some, they are the perfect companion - as they are a true partner, and for the right family a never-ending source of so much joy. For others ... not so much! and that is ok. The important thing is learning more about the adventure before you bring home that cute fluffy ball of fuzz! and learn all you can. Because even if a malamute is indeed right for you, that means you are prepared for a lifetime of learning!
A Brief History of an Ancient Breed:
For more information on the ancient heritage of this breed, please click here for a brief overview and recommendations for further reading.