Physical CharacteristicsThe Alaskan Malamute is classified as a working breed by the ACK. It is a large and well built dog with broad shoulders, and a deep chest. The Malamute is well muscled and heavy boned. The ideal weight for a Malamute is between 80 and 95 pounds for males, and between 70 and 85 pounds for females. The Malamute has a broad head, topped by erect triangular ears with rounded tips. The dogs muzzle is bulky and stout, rather than pointed. Teeth should be straight and sharp. Eyes should be medium sized and set back into the skull. The eyes should be brown and almond shaped. Blue eyes are considered a fault, and are cause for disqualification in the AKC. The Malamute has a thick, coarse, medium length coat. In the summer, the Malamute sheds to a shorter and less dense coat. Coat colour ranges from light to dark grey, sable, and red. The only pure colour accepted by the AKC is white. The Malamute tends to have face markings such as a cap over the head or a bar or mask. The belly, legs, jaw and face are traditionally white. A white collar around the neck, or spot of white on the forehead is also considered attractive in the breed. The Malamute is a powerful dog with a strong gait, and carries itself with pride. It stands straight and tall, keeping a steady stance with its plumed tail arched over its back. |