CHARACTERISTICS OF THE ALASKAN MALAMUTE
Is the Alaskan Malamute the right dog for you?
Malamutes are affectionate,
loyal, devoted, playful companion that easily adapt to many different living
environments. They love people and children, but at the same time cherish their
independence. The Malamute
can make a wonderful addition to a family's home, depending upon how well
matched the family's lifestyle and that of the Malamute's. The Malamute has
a enormous amount of energy and requires appropriate ways to release this energy
on a daily basis. It needs outside exercise, they need to run, play and keep
busy. It needs to exercise it's mind and body. If your lifestyle requires that
you work all day, you should answer the following questions honestly:
Do
I have a fenced-in garden or adequate space for the Malamute to exercise, and if
not, do you have the time necessary to take your dog on long brisk walks to a
park or nearby field to get that required exercise? If not reconsider choosing a
Alaskan Malamute as your breed of choice. a Bored restless Malamute, like other
bigger dogs, can quickly turn into a owner's worst nightmare. Alaskan Malamutes
require a lot of time, energy and feedback (talk) from their owners, especially
during their puppy years. Beside exercise, the dog will need a great amount of
grooming - the lush coat requires brushing and combing on a regular basis.
Alaskan Malamutes make wonderful family pets but if the new owner has children under the age of five, they should be especially careful. The young puppy can easily knock down small children while in a playful state and should be carefully supervised when around youngsters.
Once you've decided that the Alaskan Malamute is for you, there are several things to think about before making your final decision:
- What are you planning to do with the dog and in what activities are you interested in participating?
- What are your individual or family needs?
- What are your reasons for wanting this type of dog?
If you are able to answer these questions honestly, and can give a realistic assessment of what you want in a dog, it will make it easier to choose the dog of your dreams.
Deciding the type of dog you want is never an easy decision. Dog ownership is a tremendous commitment, and it is an important decision that must be given serious consideration.
