Health ConcernsThe healthy life span of an Alaskan Malamute averages between 12 to 15 years. If kept properly fed and exercised, the Malamute with live a fulfilling healthy life.
Unfortunately, as with most dogs breeds, Malamutes are prone to certain types of health issues and diseases. Alaskan Malamutes are prone to bloat, like most deep chested dogs. Bloat is when the stomach twists inside the abdomen, blocking the passage of gas through the digestive system. The gas builds up pressure inside the stomach, causing it to swell or 'bloat'. The swollen stomach presses against the heart and the surrounding organs and cuts off blood circulation. This is a very critical condition, and dogs can die just a few hours after the start of bloat. It is unknown what specifically causes bloat, but it seen most commonly in large, deep chested dogs. Malamutes can also become victims of hip dysplasia, a common ailment shared by many large dogs. Hip dysplasia is cause by gradual deterioration of the hip joint, causing walking and other such movements to be painful. Fortunately, there are measures you can take to help your dog such as medication to help with pain, as well as joint strengthening supplements. There are also surgical procedures your dog could undergo to give him a replacement hip as a permanent solution. Malamutes can be affected by many other conditions, such as Chondrodysplasia, thyroid deficiencies, heart defects, epilepsy and bone cancer. They can be susceptible hereditary diseases like inherited neuropathy. It is essential that you take your dog to regular yearly check up's with your vet to make sure that they are in good health. |