Male vs Female Alaskan Malamute: 5 Key Differences

The Alaskan Malamutes is a large dog breed that originated in — you guessed it — Alaska. This arctic breed is known for its strength, endurance, and massive size. Malamutes make great family dogs due to their friendly, loving nature. However, their size and high energy can be a bit much for young children, the elderly, or any vulnerable individuals. Even so, many dog-lovers praise both male and female Alaskan Malamutes for their great temperament.

If you’re interested in adopting an Alaskan Malamute, you might be wondering whether you should go with a male or a female. Here are the key differences between male and female Alaskan Malamutes.

Comparing a Male and Female Alaskan Malamute

Here is a summary of the differences between both genders of Alaskan Malamutes:

Male vs. Female Alaskan Malamute: Size

Alaskan Malamutes typically weigh between 75 and 100 pounds, with males weighing slightly more than females. They also stand at a height of around 23 to 25 inches tall (measured at the shoulder). On average, females are 23 inches tall and weigh 75 to 85 pounds while males are 25 inches tall and weigh between 85 to 100 pounds.

Male vs. Female Alaskan Malamute: Physical Traits

Physically, male Alaskan Malamutes are larger and stockier than female Alaskan Malamutes. As noted above, the females are slightly smaller in height and weight, making them less muscular than the males of the breed. Still, both genders of Alaskan Malamutes are quite large compared to other dog breeds. This is one of their most defining qualities.

Male vs. Female Alaskan Malamute: Health

Generally, Alaskan Malamutes are healthy dogs. However, like every breed, they have their own common health issues. Six of the most common health concerns in Malamutes include:

• Inherited polyneuropathy, a neuromuscular disease that causes muscle weakness in the limbs.
• Hip dysplasia, which can lead to arthritis.
• Chondrodysplasia, a genetic disorder that causes deformities in the bones such as abnormal shape and length of the limbs.
• Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid that can cause weight gain, skin issues, and behavior issues.
• Day blindness, a genetic condition that makes it difficult for dogs to see in bright lights.
• Canine von Willebrand Disease (vWD), an inherited bleeding disorder.

There’s not much evidence proving that one gender is unhealthier than the other. However, since male Alaskan Malamutes are often stockier and heavier, they might be more prone to hip dysplasia or bone issues than females. As for females, they might be more prone to thyroid issues or skin issues than males.

In terms of reproductive health, experts recommend neutering males before four to nine weeks. You should also spay females before they go into heat, which typically occurs around six months. Otherwise, females will continue to go into heat every six months (around two times per year until fixed). 

Male vs. Female Alaskan Malamute: Temperament

Alaskan Malamutes as a breed are loyal, loving, and gentle. In fact, due to their friendliness and love for humans, they aren’t known to make good guard dogs. On the other hand, they’re typically great with all people — including children. The only concern is the dog’s high energy and size, which can be intimidating and sometimes harmful for young kids.

Male Alaskan Malamutes tend to be more demanding, clingy, and territorial than females. Females are consistently loving and gentle. Both can also show signs of aggressiveness toward humans and other animals if not properly trained. Specifically, they can be quite reactive toward other Malamutes of the same gender (e.g. two males or two females). 

Male vs. Female Alaskan Malamute: Response to Training

As a breed, Alaskan Malamutes are relatively easy to train. They’re intelligent dogs, but they can be high in energy, making them lose focus. Females tend to exhibit a better response to training than males of this breed, as they’re a bit less dominant and can quickly learn commands. Males can also be more strong-willed at times, requiring more time and patience. Even so, both genders of this breed are known to be easily house trained.

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