Moonsong Malamute Rescue Shasta and Polar romping!
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Learn About Malamutes

Can't adopt but see one that tugs your heartstrings? You can still help!

Our Mallies need your time and attention (for walking, play time, grooming)! Donations of equipment such as large dog houses, 10' x 6' kennel panels, leashes, collars, and warm blankets are also appreciated. Funds to help with food, vet expenses, and transportation costs are always welcome. Please see our sponsorship options and Thanks!






Alaskan Malamute at a Glance


Temperament and behavior:
  • needs human companionship; must be a full member of the family, not just an outside dog
  • faithful to their owners
  • intelligent, but needs patient, consistent training, has been known to be a "self thinking" strong breed
  • seldom nuisance barkers however are known to "woo-woo" in excitement or howl to sirens
  • good watch dogs but not guard dogs
  • reserved around strangers but not shy or fearful if given proper socialization when young
  • moderate activity level (high activity level during puppy stage), needs regular walking/exercise
  • a working breed that was originally used for pulling

Expenses:

  • approx $150 for first year routine vet care
  • $100 per year for routine adult vet care
  • $150 per year for miscellaneous vet care
  • approx $30 per month in food
  • $180 for 20 hours of basic puppy and obedience classes
  • home and yard improvements such as fencing or a run

Health and fitness:

  • the typical life span is between 10 and 14 years
  • joint problems are common (supplements are recommended)
  • See the Health Related Links

Miscellaneous:

  • approx 75 pounds for females; 80 to 115 pounds for males
  • heavy shedding twice a year and for some dogs throughout the year
  • requires regular brushing
  • not a drooling breed
  • not a natural retriever
  • not naturally inclined to hunting, not good with livestock
  • not naturally a water dog but some take to water for fun or to cool off

Also see our Links page for more Resources

That came from me??? Alexis
That came from me???


When is a Malamute NOT a Malamute?

The following is a description of Wolf characteristics from the Idaho Fish and Game Department. Please visit their Wolf Management section for further information.

Primary Wolf Characteristics

  • Eyes shine greenish orange
  • Ears rounded and smaller in proportion to those of the coyote
  • Snout is broad with nose pad wider than 1 inch
  • Legs are long, an adult would stand at approximately twenty-six (26) to thirty-two (32) inches at the shoulder
  • Length is four and one-half (4.5) to six (6) feet from the tip of the nose to the tip of tail
  • An adult weighs at least eighty (80) pounds
  • Tail is carried high or straight out when running
  • Fur is long and coarse, varies from white to black but is generally grayish in coloration resembling the coyote. The underparts are not as white and the legs and feet are not as red as those of the coyote.

Web Resources for Wolves and Wolfdogs:

Shaman was an ambassador wolf for the traveling educational program of Mission:Wolf.
Shaman was an ambassador wolf for the traveling educational program of Mission:Wolf.
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