From its origins with the Mahlemiut people to its place in homes and hearts today, the Alaskan Malamute is a living symbol of resilience, loyalty, and deep-rooted cultural connection.

🐾 A Breed Born in the Arctic

The Alaskan Malamute traces its origins to the indigenous Mahlemiut people, an Inuit tribe native to northwestern Alaska. These dogs weren’t bred for speed like modern racing huskies. Instead, they were the freight haulers of the Arctic—built for endurance and strength, capable of pulling heavy loads over long distances through snow and ice.

Early explorers and settlers in Alaska quickly recognized the value of these dogs, whose thick double coats, strong legs, and loyal temperaments made them ideal companions in the most unforgiving environments.

Today, they’re not just working dogs; they’re beloved pets in homes across the world. But their rugged beginnings remain central to their identity.

🇺🇸 A Symbol of the Last Frontier

There are many dog breeds with regional or national associations—Australian Shepherds, French Bulldogs, Tibetan Mastiffs—but surprisingly few are tied to specific U.S. locations. Unlike other breeds with regional ties—like the Australian Shepherd or French Bulldog—the Alaskan Malamute is the only American Kennel Club (AKC) breed that also holds the honor of being a U.S. state dog. Alaska officially recognized the Malamute as its state dog in 2010, a tribute to the animal’s historical and cultural significance in the region.

It’s not just a label. It’s a nod to the Alaskan wilderness that shaped this dog’s resilience, and to the culture of the Mahlemiut people who first nurtured the breed.

✨ Appearance & Coat

Malamutes are striking dogs with a wolf-like appearance and confident posture. They feature:

• A broad head, erect ears, and a thick, plume-like tail that curls over the back
• A dense, double-layered coat built for Arctic temperatures
• Color variations including light gray, black, red, and sable, always with white on the face, belly, legs, and tail underside

Be prepared for seasonal shedding, especially during spring and fall. Regular brushing several times a week is a must to keep their coat healthy and manage loose fur.

🧠 Temperament & Energy

Alaskan Malamutes are known for their loyalty, dignity, and strength—both physical and emotional. Here’s what to expect:

• Affectionate with family, including children
• Independent thinkers—they like to make their own decisions and require patient training
• Not big barkers, but they “talk” with expressive vocalizations and howls
• High stamina: they need daily activity, but aren’t hyper indoors

They do best with active, confident owners who can provide leadership and structure.

🧊 Built for Cold, Loved for Warmth

While their thick, insulating coats make them perfectly suited for colder climates, Alaskan Malamutes can adapt to a variety of environments as long as they receive proper care. They enjoy snow but will thrive in warmer areas too—with enough shade, water, and rest.

Training is key. Their intelligence and independent streak mean they respond best to firm, consistent guidance and early socialization.

📏 Quick Breed Facts

• Weight: 75–85 pounds (females), 85–100+ pounds (males)
• Height: 23–25 inches at the shoulder
• Coat: Dense, double-layered
• Temperament: Loyal, affectionate, independent, dignified
• Lifespan: 10–14 years

💡 Malamutes vs. Huskies: Not the Same!

🛷 Still Used for Work—and Love

While few people today rely on dog sleds for transportation, Malamutes are still used in recreational mushing, skijoring, and weight-pulling competitions. Their power is no joke—some can pull over 1,000 pounds!

But more than anything, they’re loved as loyal companions. Their emotional intelligence and deep bonds with humans make them incredible family members. However, they’re not ideal for apartment living and need room to move.

🐕‍🦺 Rescue & Adoption Tips

Due to their size, energy, and shedding, Alaskan Malamutes sometimes end up in shelters when owners are unprepared for their needs. If you’re considering adopting one, do your research and connect with breed-specific rescue groups like:

• Moonsong Malamute Rescue
• Alaskan Malamute Assistance League (AMAL)

Many wonderful Malamutes are waiting for second chances with families who understand them.

🌍 A Dog That Represents More Than a Place

The Alaskan Malamute isn’t just a breed—it’s a symbol of survival, strength, and the powerful bond between people and animals in some of the harshest climates on Earth. Named after the land that made them, these dogs are a living reminder of how history, environment, and companionship intertwine.

Whether you’re admiring their beauty from afar or snuggling with one on your couch, the Alaskan Malamute truly earns its title as America’s State-Named Sled Dog.

❓ Alaskan Malamute FAQ

No one agrees with this more than one dog owner whose Alaskan Malamute succumbed to bloat after consuming too much water within a short amount of time. As revealed on her TikTok account @jessmesss, the owner shared that her dog named Zeus developed bloat minutes after drinking water too fast. 

“In Zeus’s case, we went on a 10-minute walk. He was really old and had issues with his legs so I never walked him very far. He came home, and he drank a lot of water; he was very thirsty, he was tired after our walk,” Jess Shared

“Then about 20 minutes later, he started twisting his body and contorting it all weirdly. That’s when we knew that something wasn’t right. We rushed him to the emergency vet and he immediately told us he had bloat,” Jess explained in one of her videos.  

Unfortunately, Zeus had to be put down because the bloat had advanced. Following his demise, Jess advised other owners to take precautions in order to prevent their dogs from developing bloat. 

“Don’t let them eat or drink super fast. If you’re taking them on a walk, give them time before and after they eat or drink,” she shared. 

@jessmesss123 This made me sob so hard🥲 2 years later and I think about you every single day, Zeus🐺 #dogbloat #dogbloatawareness #deepchesteddogs #restinparadise ♬ original sound – 💕 audios 💕

Bloat in Dogs: Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Bloat — scientifically known as Gastric Dilation-Volvulus (GDV) — is a potentially fatal,  progressive condition that occurs when a dog’s stomach fills with air, food, or liquid and then rotates, or rather twists, on itself. This prevents the contents of the digestive process from exiting the stomach. GDV also affects blood circulation in your dog’s stomach, ultimately interfering with the normal physiological functions of the stomach. 

Without prompt veterinary intervention, your dog’s distended stomach will press against the surrounding tissues and organs, restricting blood supply to these vital areas. Eventually, the limited blood flow will make your dog experience circulatory shock, multiple organ failure, and other systemic abnormalities, leading to death.  

“Stomach bloat in dogs, also known as Gastric Violation and Volvulus (GDV) or “bloat” is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate emergency veterinary attention. It typically begins when the stomach fills with gas, followed by the stomach twisting on itself. This twisting can trap the gas and cut off blood flow to the stomach and other organs, explain pet health experts at the Maple Ridge Vet Hospital. 

Here are a couple of quick facts about bloat gastric violation and volvulus in dogs, according to Professor Jerold S. Bell of Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine:

• While any dog breed can develop GDV, it’s more prevalent in large or giant deep-chested breeds such as the German Shepherd, Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Doberman Pinchers, Boxers, and Standard Poodles. This is because their broad chests leave more room for the stomach to twist. 
• Great Danes have the highest susceptibility to bloat among all other dog breeds.
• For large breed dogs, their risk of developing GDV increases to 20% every year once they reach five years old.
• For giant breed dogs, their risk of developing  GDV increases to 20% each year once they reach 3 years old. 
• There are dog breeds with a genetic predisposition to bloat, among them Irish Setters, Bloodhounds, Irish Wolfhounds, and Akitas. 
• Older dogs are at a higher risk of bloat than younger dogs. 
• Dogs with a tendency to eat quickly have a 15% higher risk of developing GDV.
• 30% of dogs who develop GDV succumb to it.
• Stress is a predisposing factor for bloat in dogs. 
• Dogs fed a large single meal at a go are at an increased risk of bloat. 

It’s also worth mentioning that exercising shortly before or after eating (and drinking lots of water) puts your dog at risk of bloat. Plus — contrary to what many dog owners think — feeding your dog from elevated food or water bowls increases the risk of GDV by 110%. 

8 Clinical Signs of Bloat in Dogs 

Since GDV in dogs is a matter of life and death, it’s crucial to be aware of the warning signs so you can seek emergency treatment as soon as possible. 

That said, here are eight telltale symptoms of bloat in dogs:

• A visibly swollen, hard-to-the-touch belly
• Signs of pain such as restlessness, pacing, whining, difficulty sitting down, and taking the praying position (front legs stretch foward, head lowered, and bum slightly lifted in the air)
• Retching (Trying to vomit with no food coming out)
• Excessive panting and drooling 
• Pale colored gums 
• Rapid breathing 
• Lethargy 
• Collapse

“GDV is fatal and time is absolutely not on your side. The symptoms my dog presented were retching without producing vomit, going off to dark places she’d never usually lie in, and extreme restlessness. By the time she got to the vets (45 minutes), her stomach had visibly distended,” wrote user @WaiYouHeffToBeMad in a Reddit discussion post on common dog bloat symptoms. 

“Trying to vomit, only foam coming up. Arching back like a cat stretch…We have gone through this a few times and the distended stomach isn’t as obvious as I thought it would be but extreme restlessness was a giveaway,” another user @Sautry891 added.  

Treatment of Bloat In Dogs

Usually, emergency treatment for GVD begins with medical stabilization and a decompression procedure to remove the gas trapped in your dog’s stomach. This may be achieved by passing a tube down the stomach or inserting a specialized needle on the side of the abdomen to expel the excess gas. 

To de-twist the rotated stomach and restore its normal anatomy, emergency surgery is performed. During the surgery, the emergency vet will also perform a procedure known as gastropexy, which involves attaching a portion of your dog’s stomach to the body wall to permanently hold it in place. Gastropexy helps prevent your dog’s stomach from twisting again in the future. 

Your furry friend will also likely receive post-operative care such as fluid therapy and pain relief to speed up their full recovery.  

Unfortunately, findings by the AKC Canine Health Foundation show that some dogs may still succumb to GDV after treatment. This is largely due to post-surgery complications, the most common being these two: cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heart rate) and the stomach’s inability to return to performing normal gastrointestinal functions.

What to Do Prevent Your Dog From Developing Bloat

When it comes to GDV in dogs, prevention is better than cure. There are preventative measures you can take to ensure your dog isn’t affected by this deadly condition. These precautions include:

1. Consider Gastropexy

If your dog hasn’t suffered from bloat yet, you can protect them from it through a preventative gastropexy. 

“The absolute best way to keep your dog from this life-threatening situation is to get a gastropexy done. We surgically suture part of the stomach to the body wall so it cannot flip and torse on itself, which is where the life-threatening emergency comes from,” advises Dr Hunter Finn of Pet Method Animal Hospital. 

2. Small Portions

Instead of feeding your dog a single large meal a day, consider switching to small portions during different times of the day. 

3. Slow Drinking Bowls

If your pup has a habit of eating or drinking too fast, get them slow-drinking water bowls and slow-feeder bowls for dogs. 

4. Physical Activity

Avoid feeding or giving your dog large amounts of water right before or after a physical activity. “Wait an hour before or after walks to feed your dog,” pet health experts at the Reedy Creek Vet advise. 

5. Use Low To The Ground Bowls

Avoid using elevated food or water bowls to feed your dog.

6. Stress

Address any stress your dog is experiencing to reduce the risk of bloat  

Bloat Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus in Dogs FAQs

Alaskan Malamute vs. Siberian Husky Breed Histories

Even though these dog breeds look (and even act) so similar, Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes each have their own ancestry and history. It may be easy to guess that Huskies come from a snowy region of Siberia in Russia, while Malamutes hail from rural Alaska–but the roles they played in their communities actually varied, too.

The Siberian Husky was bred by the indigenous people of Siberia as a method of transportation for objects and people. These nomadic hunters followed herds of animals and traveled to the most abundant sources of food, and these dogs helped them move faster and more efficiently. They were literally essential for survival in such a harsh climate! They often ran for a long time with very little food and were prized for their sleek efficiency.

In Alaska, the Mahlemut tribe (and the breed’s namesake) raised a dog to be both a companion and a worker. Mals were beloved family pets as well as motivated helpers, assisting with pulling heavy loads, leading sleds, and hunting. Some even acted as guard dogs against polar bears! They were also extremely hearty and regularly faced near-starvation during long winters.

Husky vs Malamute: The Physical Differences

Because these working dogs have slightly different jobs, you can probably guess that they have some physical differences, too. Their most notable difference is in their size, though this could be more difficult to discern if you’re comparing two fluffy dogs. According to the American Kennel Club. the breed standard size of a Siberian Husky is 35-50 pounds for a female and 45-60 pounds for a male. In contrast, the standard weight for an Alaskan Malamute is about 75 pounds for females and 85 pounds for males.

However, these dogs also have slightly different builds. The Alaskan Malamute typically “has a broader chest and stockier overall build,” while Siberian Huskies tend to be leaner with a shorter body length. Both breeds have thick double coats that keep them warm in harsh winter climates, though the Malamute comes in both a standard and long coat variety. So if you see a Husky-looking sled dog with fluff as big as their bodies–it’s probably a Malamute!

Siberian Husky vs Alaskan Malamute Behavior

You may also have guessed that these cousin breeds also have similar, but not identical, personality traits. Of course, every individual dog has their own behaviors and tendencies, but learning about a breed’s skills and needs can help you learn what to expect.

Both of these working dog breeds have high needs for mental and physical stimulation. This includes exercise, of course, but it should also include a number of mentally challenging activities like obedience training, puzzle toys, or even an extra-long sniff around a new park! When your dog uses their body and their brain, they’re much more likely to feel satisfied.

But be warned: both of these breeds can be escape artists. Their sled-pulling histories mean that they both love to run, but Malamutes are more likely to seize an opportunity and then return to their people. Huskies, on the other hand, can see a locked door or closed gate as a challenge. Even a yard with secure fencing may not be enough to hold them in, but escape artist behavior may also be a sign it’s time to incorporate more stimulating activities!

Alaskan husky vs malamute: What’s the Difference?

While the differences between Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies can be easy to understand after a while, it gets more complicated when you add Alaskan Huskies to the mix. While the Alaskan Husky isn’t a recognized breed of its own, it refers to a dog whose ancestry falls under a certain group of breeds, including–of course–the Siberian Husky.

Iditarod racers and other sled dog owners breed Alaskan Huskies purely for performance, so no two dogs look the same. For a mixed-breed dog to be an Alaskan Husky, one parent has to be a purebred Siberian Husky, while the other parent can be from a number of athletic breeds.

Husky vs Alaskan Malamute: Frequently Asked Questions

A brief comparison and contrast of the breeds can’t answer every question, but here are a few more things you may want to know about.

“Can I just sit this down right here?” I ask, gently moving a water bowl aside in the shelter kennel. I’m Rocky, and today, like many others, I find myself in a place that’s both heartwarming and heart-wrenching: the animal shelter. Here, amidst the barks and whimpers, I meet Misty and Ash, two Malamutes with stories as deep as their eyes.

The Shelter Life: More Than Just Kennels

In these steel-panelled kennels, life is a far cry from the warmth of a home. “They don’t have much in the shelter,” I reflect, understanding the importance of the little bed each dog clings to as their own. It’s their safe zone, a tiny piece of comfort in an otherwise stark environment.

Understanding Misty: A Senior Dog’s Plight

“You know, a Malamute at eight years old are absolutely senior dogs,” I note, observing her slow movements and the silvering of her face. Her fear is palpable, a product of sudden change and uncertainty. “At eight years old, all of a sudden, being in a shelter, having no clue what’s going on, that’s hard,” I say, empathizing with her plight.

The Power of Treats and Patience

I start with treats, a universal language of love and trust for dogs. “I’m not going to make any eye contact. She is not ready for that,” I explain, understanding the nuances of canine communication. Misty’s hesitant, but her gentle nature shines through as she takes the treats. “They’re so smart. Sometimes too smart for their own good.”

After Misty ate several treats she began to relax slightly. Her body loosened up and she moved closer to the front of the enclosure. “Good girl,” I praised. Though she wasn’t ready to cuddle yet, even a moment of lowered guard was progress.

Uncovering Their Story: A Tale of Hardship

Alexis shares their backstory. “The dogs were confiscated from an owner due to an eviction,” she reveals. It’s a situation that’s becoming all too common, reflecting the harsh realities many face in today’s world. “That’s hard on both sides,” I think, acknowledging the complexity of such circumstances.

The Bond of Siblings: Misty and Ash

Discovering that Misty came with her brother, Ash, adds another layer to their story. “Oh, my goodness. Pretty sibling, too, but probably looks like a senior also, huh?” I ask Alexis. The bond between them is evident, even as they’re housed separately for practical reasons.

Hope in the Midst of Despair

Despite the sadness, there’s a glimmer of hope. “The great thing about the shelter is they do a ten-day hold to give that owner time,” I say, highlighting the shelter’s efforts to reunite pets with their owners whenever possible. And if reunion isn’t an option, the shelter works tirelessly to find new, loving homes.

The Journey of Healing Begins

As I spend more time with Misty, I see her gradually opening up. “You’re a good girl. Do you want a treat?” I ask, watching her respond to gentle words and gestures. It’s these moments of connection that remind me why I do what I do.

Uniting Misty and Ash: A Heartwarming Moment

The decision to reunite Misty with Ash is a no-brainer. “Let’s open up the center divider and put her and her brother together,” I suggest. The moment they’re together again is touching, a testament to the comfort and security they find in each other’s presence.

An Invitation to Make a Difference

As I wrap up the visit I extend an invitation to others. “If you want to go do what I’m doing, you should for sure,” I encourage, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment that comes from volunteering and helping animals in need.

The Future Awaits: Misty and Ash’s Journey Continues

As I leave the shelter, Misty and Ash’s faces linger in my mind. Their story is far from over, and I’m committed to keeping everyone updated on their journey. “I’ll keep you updated. Follow along,” I promise, hopeful for a brighter future for these two gentle souls.

Related Posts:

• Behind The Scenes with a Frightened Terrier In a Shelter’s Off Limit Zone
• Watch The Moment This Shiba Inu Asks For Help
• Watch Her Reaction When She’s Told She’s a GOOD GIRL For the First Time

As I sit here reflecting on the rollercoaster of emotions I’ve experienced, I can’t help but feel a deep connection to Sonic, the Malamute. You see, Sonic’s story isn’t just any story. It’s a tale of resilience, hope, and the unbreakable bond between humans and their furry companions. (See the full story in the video above)

The Heartache of Return

It was a day like any other at the shelter when I first heard about Sonic, previously known as Ramna. The news of his return hit me hard. As someone who’s dedicated their life to these animals, each return feels personal. I often wonder what goes through their minds. Do they feel abandoned? Confused? It’s a weight that sits heavily on my heart.

A New Name, A New Beginning

Renaming him Sonic seemed fitting – a fresh start for a dog who deserved the world. I remember walking towards his kennel, my heart heavy with empathy. “Oh bud, I’m so sorry,” I whispered as I entered. His eyes, filled with a mix of confusion and hope, met mine. I brought him a treat, a small gesture to show him that not all was lost.

Embracing the Moment

Anger, sadness, frustration – I felt it all when I learned about Sonic’s return. But in his presence, those emotions had to be set aside. For Sonic, this moment was all that mattered. “It was just a practice run,” I reassured him, and myself. We were determined to find him a forever home.

Understanding and Patience in Adoption

Adopting a pet isn’t a decision to be taken lightly. I often talk about the 3, 3, 3 rule – three days to decompress, three weeks to learn the routine, and three months to fully settle in. It’s a commitment, a journey of mutual understanding and patience.

A Twist of Fate

Just when I started to plan Sonic’s adoption strategy, a surprising development unfolded. A volunteer at the shelter, someone who knew and loved dogs, expressed interest in adopting Sonic. It felt like fate.

The Perfect Match

Meeting Cynthia, the volunteer, was a moment of pure joy. Her experience with Malamutes and her genuine affection for Sonic were evident. It was a match made in heaven. Handing Sonic over to Cynthia, I knew he was going to a home where he would be loved and understood.

A Heartwarming Farewell

As Sonic left with Cynthia, my heart swelled with happiness. This wasn’t just an adoption; it was a celebration of resilience and the power of second chances. And thanks to the support of FBO for Good, we were able to provide Cynthia with a Furbo dog camera, ensuring Sonic’s transition into his new home was smooth and monitored.

A Beacon of Hope

Sonic’s story is a testament to the incredible work done by shelters and volunteers. It’s a reminder that every dog, no matter their past, deserves a loving home. As I continue my work, I carry Sonic’s story with me – a beacon of hope in the sometimes challenging world of animal rescue.

The Power of Community and Compassion

Sonic’s journey is more than just a happy ending. It’s a powerful example of how community, compassion, and understanding can truly make a difference in the lives of animals. As we work towards our fundraising goals, including building a comfortable outdoor area for the dogs, I’m reminded of the impact we can have when we come together for a common cause.

A Call to Action

To those considering adopting a pet, remember Sonic’s story. It’s a journey of patience, love, and understanding. And to those who support animal welfare, know that every contribution, big or small, makes a significant difference. Together, we can ensure more stories like Sonic’s have happy endings.

Related Article:

• Huddled Together in Hope: The Heartfelt Tale of Two Shelter Dogs
• This Stray Wouldn’t Trust Me Until I Tried This… And It Worked!
• The Moment This Blind Shelter Dog Is Finally Shown Love Will Melt Your Heart

His story began when a good Samaritan found him wandering the streets, lost and alone. They did their best to provide him with safety and brought him to the shelter.

He Was So Terrified

Upon arrival, Ranma was so terrified that he wouldn’t even allow the shelter team to determine his gender or scan him for a microchip. The trauma he had experienced in his early days had left him with deep emotional scars.

I Wanted To Meet This Fluffy Dog

After hearing about his story, I couldn’t resist the urge to meet this fluffy dog myself. As I approached him, I could see that he had come a long way from his initial state of fear. His transformation was nothing short of remarkable. With the support of dedicated dog walkers, Ranma had become friendly, playful, and well-behaved. He was now the picture of a loving companion.

He Melted Into My Arms Like A Marshmallow

Ranma had a magnetic personality that drew people in with his charming demeanor and fluffy appearance. I couldn’t help but be captivated by his endearing qualities. As I spent time with him, it became clear that he was not only a good boy but also a cuddle enthusiast. He melted into my arms like a marshmallow, which made it impossible not to fall in love with him.

Ramna Was Adopted…

It was here that Ranma’s journey took a dramatic turn. Ranma was adopted by a caring family. It seemed like he had found his forever home, and there was hope that his days of uncertainty were behind him. However, life had different plans for Ranma.

But Then Returned To The Shelter

Tragically, his new family decided that they were unable to provide the care and love that Ranma deserved. With heavy hearts, they returned him to the shelter, once again making him available for adoption.

The Surprising Reason No One Wants This Purebred Shar Pei Dog

Despite his incredible transformation and lovable nature, there was a surprising reason why Ranma was struggling to find his forever home for the second time. Many potential adopters were deterred by his high energy level, fearing the amount of work it would take to care for him. Ranma was in Southern California, where concerns about the hot climate added to the hesitation. After all, Alaskan Malamutes were originally bred for their strength and endurance in arctic conditions, a stark contrast to the sunny climate of Southern California.

Owning A Malamute Is A Big Responsibility

Owning a Malamute indeed comes with its share of responsibilities, such as regular grooming and exercise. Also, Malamutes are far from being hypoallergenic. But the rewards of having a loyal and affectionate companion like Ranma are immeasurable. And I had some surprising and bittersweet news to share – Ranma had been returned to the shelter, but he was still waiting for his forever home.

55 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds You Might Be Able To Live With If You Have Allergies

I am determined to continue advocating for Ranma’s second chance at a loving home. Ranma’s story is a reminder that the path to finding a forever family can be filled with twists and turns, but with love and support, every dog, no matter their past, deserves a chance at happiness.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Animal Friends of the Valleys for their unwavering dedication to saving animals like Ranma and giving them the hope of a brighter future. Ranma’s journey may have had setbacks, but his story is far from over, and we are here to support him every step of the way.

Related Articles:

• This Husky’s Secret Obsession Lands Her Back in the Animal Shelter
• The Surprising Reason Nobody’s Adopting this Cane Corso ????
• Pittie Chained Up for 7 Years: Willie’s Remarkable Journey to Freedom & Love

Unfortunately, many Americans suffer from dog allergies. This leads to people who are allergic to dogs searching for so-called hypoallergenic dog breeds. Hypoallergenic dog breeds are advertised as not causing allergic reactions or greatly reducing allergic reactions in dogs.

Are Malamutes one of these hypoallergenic breeds? In this guide, we’ll cover what hypoallergenic means, if Malamutes are hypoallergenic, and how to reduce your allergic responses to dogs. Read on to learn more! 

What Does Hypoallergenic Mean?

Hypoallergenic means that something is unlikely to cause an allergic response. Often, when a dog breed is referred to as hypoallergenic, it means that a dog is less likely to cause a person with pet allergies to have a reaction. 

Is Hypoallergenic Really Even a Thing?

Several popular dog breeds are called hypoallergenic, including poodles, bichon frises, Yorkshire terriers, and schnauzers. Do these popular dogs actually reduce allergic reactions? Unfortunately, no dog breed causes zero allergic responses. 

According to one study, there is a lack of data showing that so-called hypoallergenic dog breeds actually reduce allergic reactions. Every dog produces proteins in saliva and dead skin cells that cause allergies, so even hairless breeds can cause allergies. 

What Can Trigger Dog Allergies in Humans?

People with allergies to dogs are actually allergic to proteins made by the dog. There are several different dog proteins. Sometimes a person can be allergic to one kind of protein, but not others. 

One example is the dog protein Can f 5. There is research showing that this protein is only made by male dogs. If you are allergic to this protein, you can avoid it by adopting female dogs only. However, it isn’t always that simple.

Sometimes it is difficult to know what proteins you are allergic to. There are a few things dog allergy sufferers should try to avoid. Saliva and urine, fur, dead skin flakes, and carpets and furniture covered with dog hair should all be avoided if possible. A large amount of dander and fur in your home is a common trigger.

Top Tips for Dog Owners With Allergies

What can you do if you are allergic to your Alaskan Malamute? There are several things you can do so that you can keep your canine companion even though you have allergies. Try some of the following things to reduce your allergic responses:

• Use a high quality air filter in your home

• Conduct regular house cleaning sessions
• Vacuum regularly to get rid of pet hair
• Keep over-the-counter allergy medication on hand for allergic reactions
• Consider choosing a dog breed that sheds less
• Ask your doctor about getting allergy shots to reduce attacks
• Wash your dog frequently. Not sure how often, here’s a quick quiz you can take to determine how often you should wash your dog.

Are Malamutes Hypoallergenic Dogs?

So, are Malamutes hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, no. Breeds considered hypoallergenic typically don’t shed much, and Malamutes shed quite a bit. In fact, Malamutes have thick, dense double coat designed to withstand extreme cold and typically shed twice yearly. More shedding means more fur and dander in your home, which means more allergy attacks for you if you have this breed. 

How can I Reduce my Allergy Triggers to a Malamute?

Just because you have dog allergies, doesn’t mean you can’t have a Malamute. There are a few ways you can help reduce your allergies and still have one as a pet. Follow this advice if you are allergic to Alaskan Malamutes:

1. Make sure you bathe the dog regularly

Bathing helps get rid of dead skin cells 

2. Keep him groomed and brushed regularly

3. Do your grooming outside, and use gloves if needed

4. Stay on top of pests; more scratching means more dander flying everywhere

5. Vacuum your carpet and furniture often

What Dog Breeds are the Most Hypoallergenic?

These dog breeds are considered to be the most hypoallergenic, according to the AKC.

• Poodle
• Maltese
• Chinese crested
• Coton de Tulear
• Giant schnauzer
• Irish water spaniel
• American hairless terrier
• Barbado da Terceira
• Barbet
• Bedlington terrier
• Affenpinscher
• Afghan hound

What Dog Breeds are the Least Hypoallergenic?

Some dog breeds are not recommended for allergy sufferers. Most of these breeds shed or drool a lot. Breeds to avoid if you have dog allergies include:

• Basset hound
• Boston Terrier
• Bulldog
• Doberman Pinscher
• German Shepherd
• Labrador Retriever
• Pekingese
• Pug
• Saint Bernard
• Siberian Husky

FAQ

Related Articles:

• The Surprising Reason No One Wants to Adopt this Alaskan Malamute
• Finding the Perfect Hypoallergenic Dog for Your Family: Tips for Adopting a Dog That Won’t Trigger Allergies
• 55 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds You Might Be Able To Live With If You Have Allergies
• Hero Pup Saves Owner From Freezing To Death In Incredible Fashion