Maintenance
As a long coated breed, the Alaskan Malamute
requires grooming once a week. Females will moult twice a year (1 seasonal
and 1 hormonal moult) and males once a year. During moulting season, the
dog should be groomed once daily.
De-sexed dogs will
need less grooming due to reduced hormonal influences. Malamutes will adjust
to most climates and should not be clipped. Alaskan Malamutes will eat
less than other large type breeds. This is due to the slow metabolism of
the dog. This is a genetic adaptation to working in harsh conditions with
minimal food supplies.
Exercise
Alaskan Malamutes are a working dog, and require
daily lengthy exercise. Strenuous activities, such as those listed below
are suited to the breed.
Sled racing
A team of dogs is driven by a driver, whilst pulling a sled over groomed
snow trails. The contestants race against the clock to record the fastest
time. Dry sled racing utilizes three wheeled gigs, during the warmer months,
except summer.
Weight pulling
A strength competition. A Malamute is harnessed to an empty trolley, which
is then pulled by the dog over 4-5 meter's. Weights are gradually added
until the dog is unable to move the trolley. These competitions are strictly
controlled, and no dog is forced to compete beyond its capabilities.
Backpacking
Malamutes provide companionship and additional carrying capacity for bush and trail walkers. A backpack is harnessed to the dog, and used to store additional supplies and equipment.
The above of course may not be possible, due to the way we live in the U.K. However owners are advised to exercise a malamute for at least an hour a day. Malamutes like mental exercise, love, and socializing.
This is important, as Malamutes get bored very easily. Please keep this in mind if you are working long hours. If you can't give your Malamute these requirements, then maybe they are not the breed for you.
Copywrite© 2007 Sharon Bartlett