Alaskan Malamutes are a large breed of dogs, originally bred for sled pulling and transport. This sled dog has seen its rise in popularity due to its gentle nature and loving temperament. But despite their loving nature, many people still ask are Alaskan malamutes aggressive.
Famous for its strength, endurance, and loyalty, the Alaskan Malamute breed still suffers from misconceptions about its temperament.
One common misconception is that these dogs are aggressive towards other animals and dogs. While some Malamutes might show aggressive behavior, it is not a breed characteristic. According to the breed standard by The American Kennel Club, these puppies are pack animals and get along with other dogs.
Aggression – Truth or Myth?
Alaskan malamutes are no more dangerous than riding a car or flying on a plane. You get the point right? Flying on a plane has an extremely low risk of the plane crashing down or anything like that.
Despite the fact that the dog has been a family pet for many years now, people still try to represent it as a dangerous dog breed. Mainly, that comes from its large size and intimidating look.
This gentle giant is a pack animal and loves being around other dogs. Now, they might be more stubborn than others, and might not come when called. But that is a personality trait of Malamutes and Huskies. Same as a Siberian Husky, this dog has its own temperament and personality.
Yes, they might show aggressive behavior over food. But it is not anything more than a Golden Retriever defending its food. Resource guarding is a thing among animals, especially pack ones.
You will rarely if ever experience an aggressive or dominant behavior out of a Malamute towards people. These dogs are friendly and love everybody they meet. They do not like to be left alone, same as their friend the Siberian Husky, might develop separation anxiety. Make sure to crate-train them.
Are Alaskan Malamutes Aggressive?
These dogs are independent, friendly, and loyal. They are not generally considered aggressive toward other dogs. They might growl or bark at strangers they feel negative vibes from. But they are friendly with people they do not know.
Now, if your dog has not been properly socialized, that is a different thing.
Speaking of aggressive behavior, they might show destructive behavior, but no, no aggression. In some cases, they might play rough with other dogs, they might be loud and demanding, but not aggressive.
Are They Dangerous?
For some reason, Malamutes end up on the most dangerous dog breeds lists. But there are two factors why that happens. A dog with high energy, plus boredom, equals destruction.
What does that mean? Alaskan Malamutes have plenty of energy. They were bred as a sled dog for crying out loud. So, they need to spend that energy somewhere. And if you, as a dog owner, do not provide plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation, your dog will look for fun elsewhere. A bored dog is a destructive dog, there is no other way around it.
The other reason is lack of early socialization, plus a big dog, equals danger. These dogs are quite big. When they are not socialized properly to different social situations, you might end up with an aggressive dog.
Understanding Malamute Temperament
Alaskan Malamutes are a relatively old dog breed with a range of personality traits. And even after all these years, people still do not understand them. Here are a few quick personality traits of Malamutes.
- Extremely intelligent
- Dogs with high-energy
- Easily bored
- Playful puppies
- Stubborn
- Heavy diggers
- Loyal to the pack
- Moderate to high prey drive
Understanding these personality traits can help you train your Malamute easily. And get to know your dog better. They are generally calm, with an even temperament. But they have exceptionally high energy. Without plenty of exercise, they will show some behavioral problems.
For example, they are prone to digging. They might try to dig underneath a fence and escape.
How To Prevent Any Aggressive Tendencies?
Socialization and proper training are the ways to get a calm and well-mannered Alaskan Malamute puppy. While we can say that these dogs rarely if ever show aggressive tendencies, that can happen without proper socialization.
That means exposing your dog to different experiences, people, situations, and animals. A lot of people mistake socialization for playing with other dogs in the dog park. But that is only a fraction of the process.
Are They Good With Kids?
Malamutes are some of the best family pets. Because they are a large breed, they often might look intimidating. But they are a gentle giant that will love spending time with children.
Now, one thing to keep in mind. They are rambunctious as puppies. That might be too much to handle for families with small children.
These dogs are more active as puppies. Yet, they tend to mellow as they grow older.
Are They Guard Dogs?
So, will an Alaskan Malamute protect its dog owner? This might surprise you, but Malamutes are lousy guard dogs. They are big softies at heart and quite social and friendly with strangers.
Their social nature makes them more likely to befriend an intruder than bark and show aggression. On the flip side, their tough appearance makes them intimidating for unwelcomed guests.
Is The Alaskan Malamute For You?
If you want an independent, yet loving companion, the Alaskan Malamute might be the perfect dog breed for you. While the Siberian Husky was bred for speed, the Malamute was bred for power and endurance.
In the right family, one that can provide plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and a loving home, the Malamute is the perfect pet addition.
