Skip to Content

Giant Alaskan Malamute: Size, Temperament, Care, Health & More (2024)

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

giant alaskan malamuteDreaming of owning a giant Alaskan Malamute? Learn about the size, temperament, care, health, and more of this magnificent breed before you bring one home.

Key Takeaways

  • Giant Alaskan Malamutes are very large dogs that do not conform to the AKC breed standards.
  • They can grow up to 35 inches tall and weigh over 100 pounds.
  • They are prone to health problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia, cataracts, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy, wobbler’s syndrome, and polyneuropathy.
  • They have a lifespan of 10-12 years with proper care.

What is the Standard Alaskan Malamute?

What is the Standard Alaskan Malamute
The standard Alaskan Malamute is a moderate breed with balanced angles, well-laid back shoulders, and effortless and smooth movement.

They’re compact in size and weigh between 75 and 85 pounds.

What is a Giant Alaskan Malamute?

What is a Giant Alaskan Malamute
The Giant Alaskan Malamute is a very large Alaskan Malamute that doesn’t conform with the AKC breed standards. They’re distinguished by their size only and can grow up to 35 inches tall and weigh over 100 lbs.

Here are 4 things you should know about Giant Alaskan Malamutes:

  • They aren’t a real breed.
  • They’re prone to health problems.
  • They’re expensive.
  • They aren’t well-suited for small homes or city living.

Why Are Giant Alaskan Malamutes Unhealthy?

Why Are Giant Alaskan Malamutes Unhealthy
While giant Alaskan Malamutes aren’t a recognized breed by the AKC, they’re often bred for their size, which can lead to health problems.

Larger size means more health problems, and giant Malamutes are often mixed with other breeds, which can also lead to health problems.

Cute puppy videos of giant Malamutes are misleading, and there are no show lines or champions for giant Malamutes.

It’s important to go to reputable breeders who breed standard-sized dogs.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Owning a Giant Alaskan Malamute?

What Are the Pros and Cons of Owning a Giant Alaskan Malamute
Giant Alaskan Malamutes aren’t a real breed and come with a host of health problems.

They’re expensive, large, and require a lot of exercise.

Cute puppy videos of giant malamutes aren’t a good representation of the breed and often feature dogs that are mixed with Tibetan Mastiffs.

If you’re looking for a large, active dog, there are many other breeds that are healthier and better suited for conformation, exercise, and grooming.

You can find reputable breeders of standard-sized Alaskan Malamutes who are dedicated to improving the breed.

How Much Does a Giant Alaskan Malamute Cost?

How Much Does a Giant Alaskan Malamute Cost

A Giant Alaskan Malamute will usually cost somewhere between $1800 and $3000.

Pros of owning a Giant Alaskan Malamute:

  • Cheaper than a standard Alaskan Malamute
  • More expensive than a regular dog
  • A good investment
  • Worth the price

Where Can I Find a Reputable Breeder of Giant Alaskan Malamutes?

Where Can I Find a Reputable Breeder of Giant Alaskan Malamutes
With a Giant Alaskan Malamute costing anywhere from $1800 to $3000, it’s important to find a reputable breeder.

Look for breeders with champion bloodlines and conformation that conforms to the AKC standard.

Avoid breeders that sell cute puppy videos online as these dogs are often mixed with other breeds and will have health problems and shorter lifespans.

Instead, go to reputable breeders that breed standard-sized dogs and have show lines that are good for sports.

What Should I Look for When Buying a Giant Alaskan Malamute Puppy?

What Should I Look for When Buying a Giant Alaskan Malamute Puppy
When looking for a Giant Alaskan Malamute puppy, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

First, find a reputable breeder who can provide you with health clearances for the parents.

You should also make sure that the puppy has a good temperament and that it’s from a line of dogs that are healthy and well-behaved.

Be prepared to provide plenty of exercise for your Giant Alaskan Malamute, as these dogs are very active.

They’ll also need regular grooming to keep their thick coat in good condition.

How Can I Care for a Giant Alaskan Malamute?

How Can I Care for a Giant Alaskan Malamute
Once you have brought your Giant Alaskan Malamute home, you’ll need to provide them with proper care.

  • Regular grooming
  • A healthy diet
  • Plenty of exercise
  • Socialization
  • Training

By following these tips, you can help your Giant Alaskan Malamute live a long and healthy life.

What Are the Health Problems Associated With Giant Alaskan Malamutes?

What Are the Health Problems Associated With Giant Alaskan Malamutes
Giant Alaskan Malamutes are prone to the same health issues as the regular Alaskan Malamute, as well as potentially at risk of size-related health problems.

These may include:

  • Hip and elbow dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Progressive retinal atrophy
  • Wobbler’s syndrome
  • Polyneuropathy

What is the Lifespan of a Giant Alaskan Malamute?

What is the Lifespan of a Giant Alaskan Malamute
While giant dog breeds don’t live extraordinarily long lives, a Giant Alaskan Malamute can live for 10-12 years with proper care. This is shorter than the lifespan of the standard Alaskan Malamute, which can live for 15-16 years.

Giant Alaskan Malamutes are prone to health problems, which can also shorten their lifespan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are Giant Alaskan Malamutes good with kids?

Giant Alaskan Malamutes can be good with kids, but early socialization and training is essential to prevent them from developing possessive and guarding traits.

Are Giant Alaskan Malamutes good for apartment living?

Giant Alaskan Malamutes aren’t well-suited for apartment living due to their:

  • Size
  • Energy level
  • Grooming needs

What is the difference between a Giant Alaskan Malamute and a Standard Alaskan Malamute?

The Giant Alaskan Malamute is a very large Alaskan Malamute that doesn’t conform with the AKC breed standards.

How much does it cost to own a Giant Alaskan Malamute?

A Giant Alaskan Malamute will usually cost somewhere between $1800 and $

You should budget for the cost of:

  • Food
  • Vet care
  • Grooming
  • Training

Where can I find a reputable breeder of Giant Alaskan Malamutes?

The best place to find a reputable breeder of Giant Alaskan Malamutes is through the Alaskan Malamute Club of America.

Conclusion

Before you bring a giant Alaskan Malamute home, be sure to do your research and make sure you’re prepared for the challenges of owning one.

These magnificent dogs are a joy to have in your life, but they require special care and attention.

Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is the founder and editor-in-chief with a team of qualified veterinarians, their goal? Simple. Break the jargon and help you make the right decisions for your furry four-legged friends.