Breed Information - The Alaskan Malamute
 While you are browsing on the PolaPaws site, we thought this would be a good place to provide some basic information on a breed that we are exceptionally passionate about, The Alaskan Malamute. We have owned (or been owned by) Alaskan Malamutes since 1997. Two of our first Mallies had hereditary diseases that cut their precious lives short. It is this, and our long-term involvement with the breed club in Queensland that continues us to try and educate owners or potential owners. Sometimes you just need to say to someone, my dog does this, to see if it's normal - especially when you're dealing with a breed that is not as regular as some other breeds.
If you are thinking of adding a Malamute to your household, think very carefully about it, ask a lot of questions to all sorts of people, and do your research. Too many Alaskan Malamutes end up euthanized in animal shelters around the country - and world. Many a Malamute is sold with little or no information to an unsuspecting owner. A Malamute does not stay as a little bundle of fluff, and when someone says they are not like owning other dogs, they are right!
 Find yourself registered breeders in your State, and even outside your State, visit and ask a lot of questions. Ask yourself a lot of questions as well. Do you have time for a working dog? Do you know what a working dog is? Do you expect your dog to stay entertained day in and day out in a backyard by itself? Do you like to breathe, wear and eat dog hair every day of your life? Do you have other animals or birds? What sort of fencing do you have? The question list is long!
If you work your way through these questions honestly, and still decide a Malamute is for you.then ask yourself some more questions. Do you like a breed that makes you think? Do you like to do activities like hiking, sled-dog racing and weight-pull with your dog? Do you like a dog that has a history that goes back thousands of years? Are you ready to say "An Alaskan Malamute is not just a dog, it's a lifestyle!"
Check with your Canine Association in your State for registered breeders, or the Alaskan Malamute Club in your State. Queensland's Club can be found at www.amscq.com.au.
Please click on any of the PDF's below to find out more information about owning the Alaskan Malamute.
There is also the option of rescue dogs. Some potential owners may not wish to bring up a puppy, but may be able to take on an older dog needing a home, as sadly many Malamutes do end up in rescue. Check out your local rescue organisation, or online see www.winterpaws.com.au.
For further online information on this breed, see www.malamuteinfo.com and www.alaskanmalamute.org.
*registered with the Canine Control Council in your State e.g. CCC (Qld) www.cccq.org.au |
