The Alaskan Malamute, or Alaskan for short, is a beloved breed known for its majestic yet adorable appearance. This breed is thought to descend from wild Arctic wolves, domesticated and transformed into a beloved companion. To learn more about the origins, characteristics, care, and pricing of Alaskan dogs, read on.
1. About Alaskan Dogs
Origin of Alaskan Dogs
The Alaskan Malamute, or Alaskan for short, is a descendant of wild Arctic wolves that have been domesticated and become a popular pet. This breed is known to have been domesticated and trained by the people of Alaska and later became popular in the United States.
Alaskans are known for their impressive height, ranging from 65 to 70 cm, and their average weight of 45 to 50 kg. They have a well-proportioned body, a large bone structure, and extremely strong joints. Their fur can come in a variety of colors, including white, black and white, brown-red, copper, pink, and more.
Alaskans are highly sought after for their loyalty, intelligence, and playful nature, while also being friendly and approachable.
Classification of Alaskan Dogs
Classification of Alaskan Dogs
Alaska Standard: This variety has a smaller, more compact build and typically weighs 35-45 kg as an adult. This is the most common type of Alaskan dog in Vietnam due to its affordable price and ease of care.
Alaska Large Standard: This type is slightly larger than the standard Alaskan dog. These dogs are considered Large Standard if they have good genes, living conditions, and nutrition, resulting in a larger size.
Alaska Giant: This is the giant Alaskan dog breed. They are significantly taller and heavier than the other two types. The largest Alaskan Giant on record stood at one meter tall and weighed 80 kg. Along with their impressive size comes great strength and the ability to pull heavy loads. Alaskan Giants are rare in Vietnam due to limited supply and high prices.
Common Alaskan Dog Coat Colors
Common Alaskan Dog Coat Colors
Black and White Alaskan Dogs
This is the most common coat color for Alaskan dogs, making up over 70% of the total population in Vietnam. The black and white color combination is favored as it gives a friendly and approachable impression. It also makes the Alaskan dog appear softer, friendlier, and more adorable.
Gray and White Alaskan Dogs
Alaskan dogs with a gray and white coat are also quite common in Vietnam. The gray color gives these dogs a more attractive and mysterious appearance compared to the black and white variety. This color is particularly popular among young people and is considered the trendiest option this year.
Brown-Red and White Alaskan Dogs
This color combination is considered highly desirable and sought after by enthusiasts. Alaskan dogs with this color are quite rare in the Vietnamese market.
Sable and White Alaskan Dogs
Sable-white is a mix of black, gray-white, and brown-red. The coats of these elegant Alaskan dogs have a stunning beauty that surpasses other color variations.
Gray and White Alaskan Dogs
Snow White Alaskan Dogs
White Alaskan dogs are rare worldwide, and their price can reach hundreds of millions of VND.
Physical Characteristics of Alaskan Dogs
The average height and weight of an adult Alaskan dog are 65-70 cm and 45-50 kg, respectively. However, the Alaskan Giant can reach up to one meter in height and weigh up to 80 kg. They have a well-proportioned body and a large, strong bone structure, making them naturally suited for pulling carts.
Physical Characteristics of Alaskan Dogs
Temperament
Alaskan dogs are extremely loyal. Due to their herding instincts, they always view their owner as the “leader” and obey their commands. If their owner is threatened, they will bravely intervene to protect them.
Alaskans are intelligent dogs and quick learners. During training, they will immediately memorize the commands you give them.
This breed is also friendly and sociable, getting along well with other pets in the household. As they belong to the Arctic sled dog group, Alaskans are very active and playful. They enjoy running, jumping, and playing in wide-open spaces like fields and parks.
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2. How to Care for Alaskan Dogs to Ensure Their Health
Feeding Alaskan Dogs
It is important to ensure that their diet contains sufficient protein, which can be provided through beef, pork, or duck, and other essential nutrients like fiber and calcium, which can be found in vegetables, fruits, and milk. This balanced diet helps improve their digestion and overall health.
Alaskan dogs typically eat 3-4 meals a day, but the amount of food should be adjusted based on their weight to prevent obesity.
Alaskan Dogs Require Daily Grooming, Especially Their Fur
Grooming and Hygiene for Alaskan Dogs
Alaskan dogs are active outdoors and tend to get dirty and sweaty. Therefore, it is crucial to clean their entire body, especially their fur, on a daily basis. You can easily maintain their fur at home by bathing, blow-drying, brushing, trimming, and cutting it as needed.
Common Health Issues in Alaskan Dogs
Common Health Issues in Alaskan Dogs
Parasitic Infections
Due to their thick double coat, Alaskan dogs are prone to parasitic infections such as lice that live on their fur and fleas that live on their skin and feed on their blood.
Intestinal Inflammation
This condition is common in young Alaskan dogs and can be caused by external viruses that enter the body and damage the intestines or by consuming toxic food that the dog cannot digest.
Eye Parasitic Infections
This condition is caused by Thelazia Californiensis and T. Callipaeda worms, which are common parasites in the eyes and retina of Alaskan dogs. If left untreated, these infections can lead to blindness.
Notes on Caring for Alaskan Dogs
Notes on Caring for Alaskan Dogs
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Maintain an ambient temperature of below 30°C as Alaskan dogs thrive in colder climates.
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Ensure regular exercise for your Alaskan dog as they are naturally active and enjoy pulling carts.
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Provide a nutritious diet with all the essential nutrients.
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Maintain good hygiene by grooming your dog regularly.
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Keep your dog’s vaccinations up to date. The first shot should be given when the puppy is 6-8 weeks old, followed by a second shot 3-4 weeks later, and a third shot in a similar timeframe as the first. The fourth shot is for rabies prevention.
3. Tips for Buying an Alaskan Dog
Price of Alaskan Dogs
Price of Alaskan Dogs
The price of Alaskan dogs varies depending on their origin and coat color. Here are the prices for some common types, such as the Alaskan Giant and Alaskan Standard:
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Alaskan Giant (black and white or gray): 15 to 17 million VND. Pink and brown-red: 18 to 22 million VND.
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Alaskan Standard (common colors): 8 to 12 million VND. Pink: 14 to 16 million VND.
For Alaskan dogs imported from Thailand, the prices are as follows:
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Alaskan dogs imported from Thailand range from 16-20 million VND for the standard size and 20-27 million VND for the giant size without FCI papers.
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With FCI papers, imported Alaskan dogs from Thailand cost 20-25 million VND for the standard size and 25-35 million VND for the giant size.
Alaskan dogs imported from Europe with near-perfect pedigrees can cost 45-60 million VND for standard lineage and 60-100 million VND for high-class lineage from renowned breeders.
Notes on Buying Alaskan Dogs
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Avoid choosing Alaskan dogs that are extremely cheap.
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It is recommended to purchase Alaskan puppies instead of adults.
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Ensure that the Alaskan dog comes with complete documentation.
has introduced you to the Alaskan dog breed. If you’re looking for an energetic and friendly companion, the Alaskan dog is an excellent choice.
