Alaskan Malamute Dog Registration

General Appearance

The Alaskan Malamute is a large, solidly built, heavy-boned spitz-type dog with a deep chest, strong body, and a proud carriage. Noted for its strength rather than speed, the Malamute is balanced and proportioned for stamina. It carries a dense, weatherproof coat and a well-furred tail curled over the back.

Size

• Males
  Height: 25 inches
  Weight: 85 pounds

• Females
  Height: 23 inches
  Weight: 75 pounds

Larger sizes are acceptable in working lines as long as proportions and structure remain balanced.

Head

• Skull: Broad and deep, slightly rounded between the ears.

• Muzzle: Large, bulky, and tapering only slightly.

• Stop: Moderate.

• Nose: Black preferred; liver acceptable in red-coated dogs.

• Eyes: Almond-shaped, brown (never blue), medium-sized, and set obliquely.

• Ears: Medium, triangular, slightly rounded tips, set wide apart and carried erect.

Body

• Neck: Strong and slightly arched.

• Chest: Broad and deep.

• Back: Strong and straight, sloping slightly to the hips.

• Loin: Hard and well-muscled.

• Tail: Well-furred, carried over the back in a plume, not tightly curled or flat against the back.

Coat

• Type: Thick, double coat.

• Outer Coat: Coarse, straight, and never soft or long.

• Undercoat: Dense and woolly, up to two inches thick.

• Color: Various shades of gray and white, black and white, sable and white, red and white. All white is acceptable. Facial markings are distinct and cap-like.

Legs & Feet

• Forequarters: Shoulders well laid back, legs straight with strong bone and muscle.

• Hindquarters: Broad with powerful thighs, moderate angulation.

• Feet: Large, snowshoe-like, with thick pads, well-arched toes, and tight-fitting.

Gait

The Malamute moves with a steady, balanced, and tireless trot. The stride is smooth, efficient, and powerful, giving the impression of endurance. The topline remains firm and level while moving.

Temperament

• Affectionate and loyal to its family, though often reserved with strangers.

• Independent and intelligent, yet willing to work with humans.

• Not a one-person dog—they bond deeply with all household members.

• Typically quiet, but can be vocal with expressive howls and "talking."

• May show dog-aggression, especially with same-sex dogs.

Faults

• Light bone

• Narrow chest

• Blue eyes

• Tail tightly curled or carried flat

• Overlong coat (wooly)

Disqualifications

• Blue eyes

• Long, soft, or silky coat

• Aggressive or overly shy behavior

Ideal Owner

The Alaskan Malamute thrives with confident, experienced handlers who understand working breeds and pack dynamics. They require room to roam, consistent exercise, and firm but loving guidance. Malamutes are not suitable for apartment living or first-time dog owners.