While the cost of an Alaskan Malamute can vary between $500 to $2,500 it’s important to know that a lot of factors can affect the initial cost of the dog. An average cost per year for a Malamute is around $1,850, this is usually considerably more during the first year especially if you decide to get a puppy. All these average costs are based on the essentials, this doesn’t include any emergency procedures or extra costs like spay/neuter procedures or dog boarding/walking services. 

We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help take the stress off your shoulders when it comes to estimating costs. We know that deciding to get a four-legged companion for your family has been a tough decision and one that’s not been taken lightly. So we’ll answer your most pressing questions – how much is an Alaskan malamute? – and more throughout this guide. 

How Much Does An Alaskan Malamute Puppy Cost?

You just have to do a short search online and you’ll find that the price of a Malamute puppy can range from between $500 to more than $3000. While this does seem like a very broad price range there are several factors that can affect their cost. The average cost however is estimated at around $975. 

You can expect to pay around $3000+ if your puppy is purebred with documents to confirm this. While you may be considering buying from a reputable breeder, these do come with additional costs and are often fairly high, however, it is often worth considering rehoming or adopting an Alaskan Malamute. The costs associated with rehoming and adoption are considerably lower at between $50 to $500 dollars. It is always best to purchase a dog from reputable breeders and local shelters. This minimizes the risks of getting a dog with serious health problems right from the get-go. 

Are Malamutes Expensive?

Alaskan Malamutes feature within the top 10 most expensive dog breed list by Review Journal. Their average cost is around $975, however, that’s just for the dog alone. That doesn’t take into consideration pet insurance, vet expenses, accessories, or food costs.

It’s estimated that within the first year of owning a malamute you will spend around $4,275 but this could increase to upwards of $6000 depending on whether you take them to the groomers regularly, or you require a dog walker 5 times a week. You’re looking to spend anywhere between $1,800 and $10,000 a year to look after your pooch. That’s an average cost of between $24,000 and $100,000 for the entirety of your Alaskan Malamutes life.

What Factors Affect The Price Of A Malamute?

There are several factors that can affect the price of an Alaskan Malamute. We’ve listed the most common ones below:

Pure Bred or Mixed – Mixed or crossbreed malamutes are often sold at a lower price than purebred ones. 

Bloodline and Breeder Reputation – This is extremely important. A reputable breeder tends to invest more money into looking after the dogs they are breeding. If they are breeding from purebred show quality dogs the price will be considerably higher than those breeders who are just looking to make a quick buck and aren’t concerned for the welfare of their animals. 

Registration Documents/Pedigree – Some breeders are part of kennel clubs, the most well-known is the American Kennel Club (AKC). Breeders may also have their dogs registered which adds to their costs. 

Health Screening/Medical Expenses – Serious breeders will often make sure that their dogs and puppies are evaluated/tested for different medical conditions. Some will even take their pups to the vets for an exam, deworming, vaccines, and microchip prior to selling them. All these additional things will increase the price of your Malamute.

Training and Socialization – Before breeders sell their dogs, some like to make sure that they complete basic training and socialization. Although this does raise the price of the dog it will potentially mean you make a saving as you won’t necessarily need to invest in training for basic commands and it gives you a better chance of a well-behaved malamute.  

Breeders Location – Local supply and demand will have a big impact on the cost of your Malamute. For example, smaller dogs are more popular in metropolitan areas when spaces are smaller, some breeds are more in demand in cold climates, some breeds are more in demand where hunting is popular. You get the idea. While it is worth taking a look at prices across different areas, it is risky to buy a dog without having seen it and the breeder in person first. 

Age – Most people want to get their dogs as early and as young as possible. You’ll find that the older the Malamute is the lower the price. 

Coat Colour/Markings – For any breed, certain coat colors are more popular than others. When the trend and interest for a particular color coat increases, the price of the puppy goes up. Think supply and demand again. This is extremely important to know when it comes to purebred dogs, as only specific colors and color combinations are accepted by many kennel clubs. Dogs with rare colors can be very expensive.

Additional Costs Associated With Raising An Alaskan Malamute

Now you have a greater understanding of how much your Alaskan Malamute puppy is going to cost you, you’ll want to consider some supplies and other additional costs. Supplies like leads, crates, dog beds, toys, and grooming brushes will all cost you more the first year than any subsequent years after that.  Food, pet insurance, and vet expenses are all additional costs that are a little harder to estimate. The table below shows you the price range and average cost of the most essential items to get before you bring your Malamute home for the first time. 

The cost of dog food varies depending on the brand and whether you feed them wet food or kibble or a combination of both. It’s always worth checking with the breeder what they have been feeding your pup before you get it. This way you can make sure to continue with the same brand. Asking a vet’s advice and doing your own research is always a good idea so that you know the right amount to feed them and which food will provide them with the most nutritional benefits. Some dog owners have switched their pets to a raw food diet, while this can be beneficial for some dogs it’s worth noting that it isn’t the case for all dogs and it can be a more expensive option. So be sure to do your research before trialing this. 

There will be other costs involved when it comes to looking after your malamute, insurance is one of those costs that varies hugely. Most companies that offer pet insurance will allow you to pay this either monthly or yearly, paying yearly often gives you a slightly cheaper cost overall. Vet bills are also difficult to estimate as they rely on a lot of variables. 

The post How Much Is An Alaskan Malamute? Complete Cost Guide appeared first on Husky Habits.

There could be any number of reasons why your malamute is looking a little on the skinny side, whether it’s because they are refusing to eat, whether they are on certain medications, or they have an underlying health condition you may not yet be aware of. 

Our article gives you the five most common reasons for a skinny malamute and what you can do to help improve your malamute’s health and well-being, so they can be back to the weight they should be and leaving you less stressed that something is seriously wrong.

Why Is My Malamute So Skinny? Possible Reasons

There are plenty of reasons why your malamute is skinny. It could be anything from their genetics to a medication they may be on. Here are 5 of the most common reasons why your Alaskan Malamute is so skinny. 

1. Insufficient Diet

Your dog’s diet plays a huge role in them gaining weight. If your pup isn’t getting the sufficient nutrients they need to put on weight they are going to lose it. This can be a gradual loss or it can be a relatively fast process. Although you may think you are feeding them what they need if you are giving your malamute dog food that’s designed for smaller breeds they won’t be getting what they need for their dietary requirements. A raw food diet or home-cooked diet can also lack certain nutrients so it’s key to start looking at what you are feeding your pooch as the first reason they may be skinny. 

2. Underfeeding

Just as an insufficient diet would make your malamute skinny so if underfeeding them. Underfeeding can occur when you are inadvertently giving your malamute the wrong size portion of food or because they are refusing to eat. This all has a big impact on the weight and size of your malamute. It’s important that you know exactly how much food you should be giving your malamute as well as how many times a day you should be feeding them. This will change as they grow. So if you haven’t increased their portion size since they were a puppy this could explain why your Alaskan Malamute is underweight and skinny. 

3. Too Much Exercise

Alaskan Malamutes are known for their stamina and crave mental stimulation and regular exercise. The recommended amount of daily exercise for an adult malamute is around 2 hours a day, however, with puppies, it’s crucial that you aren’t over-exercising them. Puppies need more rest than exercise while they are growing. Over-exercising your Malamute along with an insufficient diet can lead to malnourishment and a very underweight dog. 

4. Health Concerns

Certain health conditions can contribute to an underweight malamute. If you’ve checked out other contributing factors such as diet, overexercising, and medication, the underlying cause could be an undiagnosed health condition such as diabetes.

The only way you can be sure that your malamute has diabetes is by taking them to the vet, if they have diabetes then their bodies have a shortage of insulin so they don’t get any nourishment from their cells so they take it from their fat and muscle stores. Other possible health concerns could be parasites like worms. These parasites invade your dog’s gut and gastrointestinal organs preventing them from putting on weight. Should your pooch have parasites they will often show other symptoms such as bloating. If in doubt, or you suspect something else may be going on, it’s best to consult a registered vet. 

5. Medication

Malamutes are predisposed to getting certain health conditions and some of these conditions such as epilepsy will require your mal to be on medication. Just like human medication, dog medication can also have side effects, and a common side effect is weight loss or difficulty gaining weight. If your malamute is on any medication it’s worth checking what the side effects are and if you suspect that could be a reason why your malamute is so skinny then it is worth consulting your vet.  

Solutions For Helping A Skinny Malamute?

Whatever reason you believe could be causing your Alaskan Malamute to be skinny or underweight you’ll want to make sure you get it checked out and verified by a qualified vet. They’ll be able to examine your pup, perform a physical examination, they’ll ask you some questions and they may even run some tests to rule out other potential causes.

Your vet will want to know things about your Malamutes diet such as what you feed them, how much, and what types of foods your malamute enjoys. If they feel that you may be under-feeding your malamute they may ask you to increase their caloric intake and see whether you have any improvements over time, if that hasn’t made a difference, you’ll need to go back to your vet for a more detailed examination. 

If they rule that the cause of your Malamute’s skinniness is due to any medications they are taking, they may decide to swap the medication to something different and see whether that improves anything. You and your vet will need to work closely together to try and determine why your beautiful Alaskan Malamute is so skinny, but once a cause is found, things should improve fairly quickly.

Unfortunately, if your malamute is skinny your best option is to speak to a vet first before trying tips and tricks on your own accord as the last thing you want to do is make them worse.

How much should an Alaskan Malamute weigh?

According to the American Kennel Club, Alaskan Malamutes are considered to be a large breed. The average weight of an Alaskan Malamute will depend on certain factors such as height, diet, and genetics. The charts below show the average weight for both a female and male Malamute. 

Both female and male Malamutes will vary in weight, with males normally significantly heavier than a female. While these charts only go up to 16 months some malamutes will continue to gain a small amount of weight as they grow older. This is normally due to muscle gain and it is normally put on at a much slower rate than before. 

At what age is a Malamute full grown?

An Alaskan Malamute is normally full-grown by 2 years old. It’s said that a fully grown adult Malamute is between 23 and 25 inches in height. While your Alaskan Malamute may be close to their adult height by the age of 6 months, they are not considered fully grown until they have matured, which is normally by 2 years of age. The growth charts below will give a good indication of your Malamute’s height. 

The post Why Is My Malamute So Skinny? 5 Possible Reasons Why appeared first on Husky Habits.

They are still one of the most popular dog breeds out there. From their intriguing eye colors to their rich coats, humans adore these working dogs. Many pet parents who get their husky from a puppy will often ask themselves “Will my husky puppy change color?” 

The answer is yes, they will change color and it will be due to several different reasons. We’ve put together a list of 7 important things you need to know about your pup’s color-changing fur and why they do this so you can put your mind at ease.

Will My Husky Puppy Change Color?

Yes, your husky puppy will change color. Husky pups are typically born with soft fuzzy coats that often contain darker tones through their fur. After their first shedding season, you may notice that markings that were once black are now light gray in color.

This change happens because your pup has developed its coarse, thick adult coat. If your husky has dark patches around their eyes, these could fade out completely or they may turn into a lighter shade. These changes are only likely to occur during a shift in the seasons or during shedding.

Why Is My Husky Changing Colors?

There are several reasons why your husky may be changing colors. A change in the seasons and shedding are the two main reasons why your husky is changing colors. A lesser-known reason for your husky pup’s color change is sun exposure. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause your Siberian husky’s fur color to change from dark hues to lighter hues – reverse tanning – while in most cases it will revert back once you limit the amount of sunlight they get, it can in other cases be a permanent change.

So be careful if you live in an area where you get a lot of harsh sunlight and spend a lot of time outdoors. You’ll also find that husky’s will change color as they age. Some husky’s that appeared black when they were pups will now have more gray tones, this is due to the natural aging process. Just like humans, husky’s can also develop gray hairs! 

What Are The Different Colors Of Huskies?

Husky’s are unique in the fact that each part of their double coat can be a different color. As well as this, dilution factors, age, and sun exposure can also affect your husky’s fur color. According to the American Kennel Club, these are some of the standard husky colors:

Agouti

Also known as ‘wild coloring, and agouti husky looks almost identical to a wolf. Agouti huskies have dark heavy masks and cream-colored markings. The pigment extends far down the canines body and their undercoats are usually charcoal while their outer coat can be a mixture of black, tan, red, or grey. 

Black and white

The undercoat of a black and white Siberian husky can be white, charcoal, beige, or even a mix of all three. While their topcoat can range from jet black to a dilution known as ‘salt and pepper’ grey, you may also find that some huskies have a slight red tint to their fur. Though this red tint is rare and usually a result of sun exposure. 

Red

Some Siberian husky’s come in a variety of red or copper tones. From red and white huskies to chocolate copper huskies, they all have a varying degree of red throughout their fur with some lending more of the tan colors to come through where others have more red hues showing through for darker fur color. 

Sable

Considered a rare color, but not as rare as a pure white husky, Sable-colored huskies have black points and black tipping of the fur, and the undercoat is always a shade of red.

The Three Greys

Some huskies come in one of three shades of grey; wolf-grey, silver, or dark/medium grey. The wolf-grey husky has warm shades of grey with either beige, tan, or red behind the ears and on their legs and back. Their undercoat is normally beige. A silver husky tends to have a silvery or blueish tone to their fur and their undercoat is normally white. A complete contrast to the wolf-grey husky. The medium/dark grey husky is the most common with their undercoats being a mix of beige and silver.

Some colors and patterns, such as the double merle, have been linked to certain health conditions including sight and hearing problems.

What Is The Rarest Husky Color?

Pure white is considered to be the rarest color for a husky. This color is a result of recessive genes that have removed the pigmentation from their coat. While you can get white husky’s they may have hints of yellow through their coats.

A white Siberian husky can have liver-colored or black points – usually the color of their nose and skin around their eyes. Their undercoat however is white or silver. This husky is truly striking, especially when paired with captivating bright blue eyes.  Pure white huskies are not a sign of albinoism as many believe, it is simply due to other hues being completed restricted.

How Often Do Husky’s Change Color?

Mature husky’s will change color once or twice a year. This change occurs due to the shedding of their fur. A Siberian husky tends to shed their coats twice a year – once in the lead up to summer and then again just before winter. However, every once in a while your husky may only shed once in the year. This factor tends to be weather-related as well as location-dependent.

Be aware that your husky may constantly shed if you live in a place that is relatively warm all year round. It’s likely that your husky’s fur coat will be darker during the winter months due to the coat being thicker and lighter during the summer months as the coat is normally thinner. 

Do Husky Patterns Change?

It’s unmistakable that a husky puppy’s markings make it adorable and very unique but sadly their markings don’t stick around for long. As your husky reaches adulthood their markings will undeniably change. When and how the markings change is unknown as it varies from canine to canine.

No two huskies are the same when it comes to their markings or patterns and some can be more striking than others. Generally, husky’s have darker markings which become lighter as they change their fur colors. Gray colors are more prominent in dark-toned huskies.

As your Siberian husky ages, their mask is going to change color. If your husky had dark patches surrounding their eyes, these areas could fade into the same colors as the rest of their mask. You may also notice that your husky’s eyebrow markings will fade as they age and become part of their overall mask.

Solid-colored or monochrome huskies will not have a mask or any recognizable patterns, but that’s not to say you won’t notice color changes as they mature.

Do Husky’s Eyes Change Color?

You are likely to notice that your husky’s eye color will change slightly. This normally only happens as a puppy. It’s not likely that your pup’s eye color will change once they reach adulthood. Blue or brown are the most common colors for husky’s eyes, however, you may see a husky with green eyes.

The most unusual and rarest colors are split-eye and parti-. Parti-eyed huskies will have a predominant eye color with another color sprinkled across the iris, whereas a split-eyed husky will have eyes that are half one color and half another color. You may have even seen husky’s with each eye bring a different color. This condition is called heterochromia. 

It’s possible that some husky pups may not have the same blues eyes in adulthood. While striking blue eyes are the most common color in husky’s, you should notice if your pup has different colored eyes to that fierce blue when they are between 5 and 8 weeks old. During this period you’ll notice that your husky’s blue eyes (if they have blue eyes that is) will start to darken. They could even turn gray or a murky color. By 12 to 16 weeks of age, your husky should have achieved its final eye color, however, some husky’s can take a little longer.

The post Will My Siberian Husky Puppy Change Color? 7 Things To Know appeared first on Husky Habits.

Just like humans, huskies can also suffer from a condition called epilepsy. This is the most common form of seizure in dogs. Abnormal electrical activity in your husky’s brain cause seizures, affecting how your beloved pet behaves and looks. Some seizures can look like a twitch, while some can be uncontrollable full-body shakes. Seizures themselves can last anything from 30 seconds to several minutes. Anything that lasts longer than 5 minutes will need immediate medical attention from a vet. 

Many dog breeds are prone to seizures and sadly husky’s are one of those breeds. They can be happily playing with you one minute and then before you know it you’ll be shouting “help! My husky is having a seizure”.  While you may feel like you’re completely helpless at first. There is actually a lot you can do to help them.  We’ve put together a list of all the important information to help you look after your husky, so you know exactly what to do when the unthinkable happens.

How Do I Know If My Husky Is Having A Seizure?

Seizures in dogs can be pretty scary, especially if you have never witnessed one before, but knowing the signs of one can really help you get the most effective treatment for your four-legged friend. While not all seizures look the same, you may notice the following symptoms:

• Muscle Twitching (anywhere in the body)
• A vacant expression, they may not respond to you when you call their name
• Uncontrollable or jerky movements
• Paddling movements with their legs
• Collapse and loss of consciousness
• Passing of urine or poop
• Drooling or foaming at the mouth
• Eyes rolling back or moving from side to side
• Tense or cramped muscles

It’s important to know that some seizures can affect the whole body whereas others may only affect parts of it.

What Do I Do If My Husky Is Having A Seizure?

After identifying that your husky is having a seizure you may feel like a helpless observer, however, you are far from it. Although none of us would like to ever witness this our beloved pooches, there are a few important steps we can take to help our huskies, even when they are mid-seizure. 

1. Stay safe and keep calm – It’s extremely important that we remain calm and level-headed as your dog’s health relies on your ability to focus. You’ll also want to take a look at your surroundings to make sure there is nothing around that could harm them, if there is, gently move it out of the way. Do not try to touch, or move your pet as they could end up biting you. It’s best to leave them to handle the seizure.
2. Check the time – Knowing when the seizure started and how long it lasted is very important as it will give your vet key information about your husky’s symptoms. If the seizure has lasted more than a couple of minutes your dog is at risk of hyperthermia. If you can keep, your dog cool by applying cold or wet towels to their neck, groin, paws, and head. Or if you have a fan turn it on and point it in their direction. 
3. Take a video – Although this is likely to be the last thing on your mind, taking a video will also provide key details about your husky’s seizure to your vet. Instead of you remembering all the symptoms and exactly what your husky was doing, a video will show your vet firsthand what happened. If you have someone else with you, get them to take the video while you time the length of the seizure.
4. Be reassuring – Witnessing your husky having a seizure is very unsettling, and our initial instinct is to cuddle them, but in this situation, you’ll want to stay away from them. Offering them reassurance by saying their name and telling them everything will be ok is the best thing for them. They are also going to look for you when they come round so being there as the first person they see will help to relax them and keep them safer and calmer. 
5. Call your vet – Once the seizure is over it’s important to call your vet, even if your husky seems normal. There are two types of seizures however that require immediate emergency treatment; cluster seizures and Status Epilepticus. These two types of seizures often require medical intervention and overnight hospitalization to help stabilize your pooch.
6. Keep a journal – If this is the first time you’re pet has had a seizure, it’s worth keeping a note of it. It’s highly likely that this is a one-off, however, some seizures can reoccur. By documenting the time, date, and how long it lasted will give your vet valuable information should your husky have another. It can also provide key information on the cause or reason behind the seizures.

What Can Trigger A Seizure In A Husky?

There are plenty of things that can trigger a seizure from toxins and diabetes to viral infections and heatstroke. It isn’t always easy to know what the actual cause is. While some seizures might occur due to genetics, others could be due to the medications they are on. 

Common causes of seizures in Huskies can include the following:

Regardless of the underlying cause, seizures occur due to faulty electrical activity in your husky’s brain.

Treatment For Seizures In Huskies

Depending on the cause of the seizure will depend on the possible treatment available. Your vet will run a series of tests to determine the root cause of your husky’s seizures. If no cause can be found then the likely diagnosis will be Idiopathic Epilepsy. 

Once a diagnosis has been made, your vet will work with you to find the best treatment for your pooch. This may include medications or keeping a seizure diary. Alternative treatments can also include complementary therapies like acupuncture or even a change in diet. A dog’s diet that includes medium-chain fatty acids as a fat source may be able to decrease seizures in some dogs.

How To Prevent A Husky From Having Seizures?

You need to be aware that your husky could have a seizure when you are not home. So, while stopping the seizures altogether may not be possible, prevention is the next best thing. By following these steps you can potentially help keep them safe, should they experience another seizure:

Take precautions – Look for potential dangers and mitigate them. For example, if you have stairs in your home, use a stair gate to keep your husky away from them. This way if your pet was disoriented after having a seizure it lowers the risk of them sustaining an injury from falling down them. 

Track medications – If you’ve been given medication to help manage your husky’s symptoms it’s really important that you are consistently giving them their medication. While we all know our lives can be pretty hectic, it might be worth keeping a medication diary or setting constant reminders on your phone so you never miss a dose. 

Watch out for side effects – Many anti-seizure medications have side effects. Some of these side effects can be temporary and last anything from a couple of days to 2 weeks, others can last a lot longer. If you notice any of the following side effects, contact your vet immediately; your husky is very lethargic, has trouble walking, or changes in their behavior. It might mean that the specific medication is not suitable for your husky and a new one will need to be found.

Are Huskies Seizure Prone?

There are three types of seizures that occur in dogs; reactive, secondary, and primary. 

Reactive seizures are caused by the brain’s reaction to a metabolic problem, such as low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin.

Secondary seizures are usually a result of brain trauma, tumor, or stroke.

If no underlying cause can be found, that would link the seizure to being a reactive or secondary seizure, then the likely answer would be that it’s a primary (idiopathic epilepsy) seizure. Primary seizures are usually inherited conditions. Episodes will usually begin between 6 months and 3 years of age. 

Some breeds are more prone to seizures than others. Just like Alaskan Malamutes, huskies are predisposed to getting epilepsy. If diagnosed with epilepsy, your husky will more than likely require lifelong medication to keep their seizures under control and regular blood tests to monitor side effects and efficiency of the medication.

The post Siberian Husky Seizures: Symptoms, Causes & What To Do appeared first on Husky Habits.

Due to their high prey drive and even with early socialization, Alaskan Malamutes aren’t likely to get one with small dogs. They’ll be much happier and more likely to tolerate a dog of a similar size and one that is after the same goal as them. For the best chances of your malamute living with and getting along with another dog, training them and socializing them from puppies will be more beneficial and will bring a higher probability that they will live happily ever after. 

Our article takes you through the step-by-step process of introducing your malamute to another dog, their temperament, which breeds they will get along with, and why getting a dog of the opposite sex is better.

Malamute Temperament

Alaskan Malamutes are friendly, loving, loyal, and intelligent. These traits are often why people fall in love with them. They adore humans and like to please their owners however, their independence and natural instinct to explore can prove to be a challenge for some.

While they are affectionate, without strict training in obedience you’ll find your malamute will become a handful and will believe they rule the roost. Alaskan Malamutes are not for the faint-hearted. They require a lot of exercise, so make sure you take this into consideration when choosing a companion for them. You’ll find they’ll be much more likely to respond positively with a breed that has a similar personality to them such as a husky, or another malamute.

How To Introduce Your Malamute To Other Dogs?

Alaskan Malamutes are very sociable dogs when it comes to other humans, but not so much with other dogs. Their position in the hierarchy of the family is very important to them and their tendency to be dominant can lead to aggression towards other dogs. However, there are many success stories of Malamutes getting along and living with other dogs, so there is still hope. Whether your Malamute can get on and live with another dog is partly down to early socialization and partly down to you being firm with them. 

While training on introducing your malamute to another dog can be time-consuming and requires a lot of patience, it will be worth the effort. Here are some tips to help you get your Malamute comfortable with another dog, once you have assessed that they are suitable.

Walk the dogs near each other on the leash – Whenever you are introducing two dogs to each other you’ll want to walk them near each other on the leash. It’s always recommended that this happens outside, away from the homes of their dog, especially as Alaskan Malamutes are known to be very dominant over their territory. Meeting in a neutral location such as a park or field removes this tension and any territorial aggression. 

Allow the dogs to sniff each other while on the leash – Once your dogs have become aware of each other, it’s time for them to meet face to face. It’s important that you keep both dogs on the leash during this step so that you have full control over the situation. Slowly walk the dogs towards each other so that you can get a sense of their attitudes. Once you’ve allowed them to see each other from a distance, bring them together, let them sniff each other, and then praise them constantly, keeping the atmosphere calm. 

Walk them on the leash together – Once your Malamute has had the chance to meet the other dog properly, and has responded positively, it’s time to walk them together on the leash. Keeping them both on the leash will prevent the situation from becoming out of control as their emotions can sometimes get the better of them. Keep praising both dogs throughout the walk, and don’t try to stop them sniffing each other. 

Allow the dogs to meet with leashes dragging – Once they have responded positively to the above steps, even if it’s taken several meetings, it’s time they met without being restricted by a leash. Keeping the leash attached to their collar but dragging behind them allows you to quickly intervene if the situation turns sour. Avoid small spaces that could make your Malamute or the other dog feel confined. If they make a move to be playful with each other, let them. 

Meeting inside the home – Only when you are confident that your Malamute and the other dog can play with each other without you needing to control the situation, should you move onto this step. For the first meeting, it’s advised to do this in your yard and repeat the first few steps. Only once they are comfortable meeting in the yard, can you start to introduce the second dog into your home. This step can be a long process with small positive meetings to build your Malamute’s confidence with another dog in its home. Remember to praise each dog at each step. 

Once your second dog has finally moved in, you’ll want to make sure that they are kept separate when unsupervised as this is when the territorial issues can arise. When you’re around you can maintain training and authority over their actions making sure they are responding nicely towards each other. You must always remember that your Malamute is highly territorial. 

Which dog breeds do Malamutes get on with?

Alaskan Malamutes can get along with other dogs as long as they have been socialized from an early age. There are several breeds of dogs that Malamutes will get along with and although getting another Malamute would be the obvious choice, you may want to consider a different breed, one that will balance out your family nicely. Here’s a list of five other breeds that would make a good friend for your Malamute.

Beagles – These even-tempered dogs make perfect companions for your Malamute. They are neither too timid nor too aggressive and just like the Alaskan Malamute they work in a pack. If you train them both together, they’ll be an inseparable pair.

Border Collies – Like the Malamute, Border Collies are working dogs. They are also highly athletic and love having something to do. You’ll find that your malamute and collie will love to participate in agility. Border Collies are also very obedient dogs that know how to behave around other dogs. 

Whippets – These athletic dogs will keep your Malamute entertained and chasing each other will be a norm around your yard. As Whippets rarely bark you’ll be able to keep a relatively quiet home, at least when you’re Malamute isn’t ‘talking’ to you. 

Labrador Retriever – This hunting dog is friendly, loving, and smart, which is why they make great family pets. They get along with everyone, including other dogs. Labrador Retriever’s love to play fetch and chase games just like your malamute does. 

Bernese Mountain Dogs – Another great breed for your malamute is the Bernese Mountain Dog. Their calm, delicate nature makes them perfect family pets, and they get on with everyone – strangers and other animals included. These dogs are capable of both draft and droving work similar to that of your Malamute, and they work well in a pack.

Can Two Male Malamutes Get Along?

Something you may not consider when looking for a companion for your malamute is the sex of your dog. If you have a male malamute already bringing another one into the mix could spell disaster. Male Malamutes like to be the leader of the pack, with two in the mix, there will be high levels of testosterone provoking competition for dominance. With this going on the two can exhibit serious behavioral concerns. If you want to bring two males together, do so as young as possible and be sure to keep strict obedience for both dogs and have them neutered. 

To avoid any issues with your male Malamutes becoming territorial with each other, make sure to provide them each with a space they can call their own and toys they can share. This could mean you provide them with their own bedding but working or exercising happens in the same space. Another problem that could arise with having two males in the same house, is their destructive tendencies may be amplified as they compete for dominance. Resulting in furniture being ruined or other belongings being torn up.

Can Two Female Malamutes Get Along?

Just like two male Malamutes, two female malamutes do not tend to get along with each other. For similar reasons as two males, two females will also compete for dominance and territory. If you do want to bring two females into the home make sure you do so as young as possible and that you spay both of them. As you would with two males, make sure you provide each female Malamute with a space they can call their own and have a joint space where they can work or exercise together. 

Two dogs of the opposite sex tend to get along better, with fewer behavioral concerns and dominance issues. If you are worried about the possibility of unexpected puppies though from having a male and female together, make sure to spay the female and neuter the male. You’ll find that a male and female Malamute will compliment each other nicely and you’ll have a much happier home when they are both getting on with each other.

The post Alaskan Malamutes: Can Malamutes Live With Other Dogs? appeared first on Husky Habits.

Before we delve into the main aspects it’s worth getting yourself familiar with the breed. Huskies are working dogs and were bred for their stamina and ability to pull sleighs over long distances. They are highly energetic and need a lot of looking after. From daily exercise to frequent training and mental stimulation. Huskies are a beautiful breed but they do have a bit of a dark side. If you aren’t strong-willed and consistent then your husky is likely to take advantage of you and may even escape.

Is Owning A Husky Difficult?

Despite having several great qualities, owning a husky can be difficult and has been compared to parenting a toddler – they are full to the brim with energy. If you’re thinking of getting a husky then you should know that owning one isn’t for the faint-hearted.

The main reason huskies can be difficult is due to their stubbornness, intelligence, and independent nature. Huskies will often use their remarkable minds to learn less savory things and are not overly keen on pleasing their owner, making training them hard. Despite these factors, huskies do make amazing pets and will bring some fun into your home.

Are Huskies Good Dogs To Own?

Yes, without a doubt, huskies are great dogs to own. Their incredible temperament and kind nature make them great family pets. They are very tolerant of small children and aren’t known to be aggressive toward humans or other animals.

If you do have small children though, just like any breed, you should never leave them alone or unsupervised. Large dogs can easily overpower a child. Huskies have been known to thrive in a multi-dog household, this is down to their natural pack instincts. Socialization from a pup will teach your husky how to behave appropriately around other dogs and people. Huskies will get on with everyone, including strangers.

What are the pros of owning a husky?

Huskies are incredible dogs and they come with a whole load of pros. Here’s a list of husky traits that draw people to this incredible breed. 

Playful and Dynamic – Huskies are an incredibly playful and highly energetic breed. They are always there to greet you after your day at work and will likely bounce off the walls when they see you. Huskies love the outdoors which makes them great at hiking, walking, running, biking, and even camping companions. They were originally bred to pull sleighs long distances, so they have an incredible amount of stamina and vigorous exercise in cold temperatures would be very much appreciated by them. As they are full of energy they also make good companions for energetic children and will love playing fetch, running around the garden with them, and just generally being around them. 

Good Family Dogs – Huskies make great family pets. They were bred to be pack dogs, much like the Alaskan Malamute. This pack mentality transfers to their human family and as such, huskies get along with children, other adults, and even other animals. But you’ll still need to supervise your husky when they are around very small children. Just like you would with any other large breed dog. 

Intelligent – Almost any dog can do tricks if you teach them. But huskies aren’t smart in the way you might typically think. Huskies are intelligent due to their independence. Their independence makes them a little harder to train than some other breeds. This isn’t because they don’t understand what you want them to do, but because they are choosing not to do it. That’s why making training fun and more challenging helps keep them engaged. This also means they are more likely to do a whole range of cool tricks. 

Clean –  The greatest thing about huskies for many people is the fact that on the whole, they are relatively clean dogs. While some dogs start to give off that unpleasant ‘wet dog’ odor if not bathed frequently, huskies don’t. They are classed as a ‘natural’ breed and can be quite meticulous when it comes to cleaning themselves. You’ll often find them licking themselves, a bit like a cat. Regular weekly brushing is recommended to help with shedding and a bath a few times a year is all they really need. 

Good-natured Dogs – Huskies are very friendly, gentle dogs and as such are good-natured dogs. They are extremely sociable with strangers. According to the American Kennel Club, huskies do not typically display the territorial qualities of guard dogs so they tend not to be suspicious of strangers. If socialized from an early age they have even been known to get on with other animals including cats, small dogs, and other small animals.

Convenient and Economical – When you look at a husky you may think they need a lot of food, just because of their sheer size. However, that’s not the case. Huskies were bred to perform on minimal amounts of food, so it’s not unusual for them to skip a meal every now and then. Although they may require less food intake per pound compared to other breeds, it’s super important to realize that they still need a balanced diet rich in protein and fat.

What are the cons of owning a husky?

While there are many pros to owning a husky there are several cons too. Although a lot of these are minor, they are definitely worth knowing if you’re thinking of getting one. Here’s a list of cons to owning a husky. 

Magical Houdini’s – Many husky owners will tell you that their dog has escaped on more than one occasion. That’s due to their independence and their natural instinct to explore. Huskies have a reputation for squeezing through small gaps, breaking, digging, or chewing through tie-outs or under fences, escaping through doors that are left slightly ajar, and even running through electric fences. You will even need to be cautious when walking your husky off-leash. Sadly you cannot trust their recall, as their risk of running away/escaping is high. So if you’ve got a husky or thinking of getting one make sure you have the necessary precautions in place such as a 6-foot high fence around your property.

Stubborn – As mentioned earlier in this article, huskies are incredibly stubborn. This stubbornness makes them difficult to train but not impossible. They thrive on positive reinforcement and will often require new challenges to stay focused. Incorporating training into their daily routine will make them happy as they like to work for their owner, plus it helps to build a rewarding bond between you and your dog.

Noisy – Although huskies aren’t a breed that barks much, they do like to howl or ‘talk’. Generally, huskies are a very vocal breed and they can be fun to listen to. However, they have also been known to mournfully howl when left alone either in the house or in your yard. This mournful howling could cause your neighbors some hassle, especially if you live in a close-knit community.

Highly Energetic – If you’re not much of an active person then a husky could prove to be too much for you. Huskies are very energetic and require large amounts of exercise and mental stimulation to stop them from getting bored. Although they are playful dogs, they still need their daily dose of exercise which can be as simple as a long walk, a good romp around the yard, or even play dates with other dogs. 

Lousy Guard Dogs – Contrary to popular belief, huskies make lousy guard dogs because of their sociable, friendly nature. Although your husky may look intimidating, that’s about all they have going for them. If a burglar were to break in, they are likely to be greeted enthusiastically and even accompany the burglar on a tour around the house.

What to expect from owning a husky?

Owning any dog comes with costs and expectations, huskies are no different. There are many things you should know before you decide to get a husky. From health conditions to starting fees. Huskies, just like any dog, are a massive lifetime commitment. You’ll need to make sure you have enough time to care for your husky. They need a lot of exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. Here is a list of other important factors to be aware of and expect when owning a husky:

Health Conditions – Huskies are prone to developing several health conditions throughout their lifetime. Some of these health conditions include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, certain cancers, ear infections, and eye problems. 

Shedding – Most breeds will shed their fur coats. Some do this all year round, while others only shed once or twice a year. Huskies have thick fur coats that shed twice a year and the best way to help them shed is to give their coat a blowout and groom them frequently. You may decide to get this done by a professional dog groomer or do it yourself. Investing in a decent vacuum is also recommended with this breed as vacuuming may become a new way of life for you. 

Financial Impacts – Owning an animal comes with a great sense of responsibility, not just in terms of your time but also financially. There are a lot of things to consider such as food, toys, leads, harnesses, accessories, treats, pet insurance, vet bills, and much more. According to PDSA, rescuing a husky can be a more cost-effective option than buying one straight from a breeder. So if you’re looking to save a bit of money, rescuing a dog is a great way to go, plus is really rewarding knowing that you’re giving a husky another lease of life. Other costs you would need to consider are boarding costs for kennels if you go away and can’t take them with you, dog walkers/daycare, training, and even agility classes if this is something you decide to do with them. 

Husky Proofing Your Home – Huskies are known for being escape artists, so you’ll need to make sure that your home is husky proof. The first thing to consider is whether you live in an apartment or in a house. If you live in an apartment you may want to reconsider owning a husky as they need a lot of free space to roam around in. Houses with large yards are the perfect places for them, but you’ll want to make sure you have a large 6-foot high fence around your property to ensure they stay within their boundaries. 

The post Five Things That Explain What It’s Like To Own A Husky appeared first on Husky Habits.

What might seem small to use, can be extremely frustrating to our pooch. That’s why we’ve listed the top five reasons why your husky keeps scratching his ear and some possible treatments you can use at home to help relieve the itching as well as prevent any possible itching in the future will mean fewer trips to your vet. 

Autoimmune Skin Disease

More common in Siberian Huskies, Pemphigus Foliaceus is a superficial skin disease that can cause itchy ears. It often starts around the age of 4 years old and can cause scabs, hair loss, and ulcers, usually on top of their nose and inside the ear flap. But they can also be found around their eyes, on their pads, and around their groin area.

It’s not known exactly what the cause of this skin disease is as it can appear suddenly. In some cases, it may be drug-induced or it could be a result of years of chronic skin disease. This complex disease is also known as uveodermatologic syndrome and is the result of your dog’s immune system forming antibodies against its own pigment cells.

Skin Infections

Your husky is prone to a skin infection called zinc-responsive dermatosis. This is a result of your husky either not getting enough zinc in his diet or he doesn’t absorb it properly. The former is often referred to as Syndrome I Zinc-responsive Dermatosis – which is the most common one for huskies – and the latter is referred to as Syndrome II Zinc-responsive Dermatosis – which is more common in German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Poodles.

Symptoms for Syndrome I Zinc-responsive Dermatosis include erythema, alopecia, and crusting/scaling around the mouth, nose, and ears.  Other regions such as their vulva, scrotum, and anal areas may also be affected. For a formal diagnosis, it is advised that you see a vet so that they can do a skin biopsy to rule out any other conditions.

Parasites

If your husky scratches his ears a lot or shakes his head it could be a sign of parasites. Although ear mites can affect any dog, huskies can also get them. They are microscopic organisms that are hard to spot with the naked eye and are like tiny white dots. An ear mite infection will cause your dog’s ears to itch resulting in them shaking their heads frequently and scratching them with their paws. You may also notice that your dog’s ears are red and inflamed. Ear mites will cause a dry black discharge to appear from the ear as well as an unusual odor. Although ear mites are rare, it’s always worth getting your dog checked by a vet if you suspect they may have them. 

Ear mites aren’t the only parasite that may be causing your husky discomfort. Fleas and ticks can also find their way into your dog’s ears. You can tell if your dog has fleas in its ear as the ear will look dirty and what looks like black pepper flakes in and around the ears. Ticks are often a lot easier to see as they are larger than both ear mites and fleas. They are often easy to remove, however, if they have gone too far into the ear canal then you may need to seek assistance from a registered vet. It’s really important that you remove ticks, fleas, and ear mites as soon as possible as they often carry other potential diseases such as Lyme Disease or tapeworm and can cause other health conditions such as anemia.

Foreign Objects

Sometimes dogs can get foreign objects stuck in their ears, this could be anything from a grass seed or hair to a tiny fly or tick. When this happens it will often annoy your dog and they’ll shake their head or itch until they get it out.

Grass seeds, believe it or not, are the most common form of foreign object that appears in your dog’s ear. This is usually a seasonal problem and occurs mainly in the summer months when your husky is jumping and running through a field of long grass. These will normally correct themselves in a few hours however, if it doesn’t you may need to give it hand by removing it yourself or contacting a vet.

Ear Infections

There are a host of things that can cause ear infections. The main causes of ear infections are bacteria or yeast and sometimes can be a combination of both. All the issues above can also result in ear infections if left untreated. Signs your dog might have an ear infection include dark discharge coming from the ear, excessive scratching and head shaking, an unpleasant odor, redness and swelling around the ear canal, as well as crusting/scabs in the ear.

Huskies are more prone to ear infections due to their predisposed medical conditions like Autoimmune disease, allergic skin disease, and thyroid issues.

Home Remedies

There are plenty of home remedies out there for you to manage your husky’s itchy ears. However, you will want to get them to check out by a registered vet first, to make sure there is nothing more serious going on. Checking these conditions out with your vet first will also help you know that the home remedies you plan to use are actually the correct options as you want to help your pooch get better not make it worse. 

There are a couple of home remedies that can help relieve those pesky itches include:

Ear Cleaning 

Regular cleaning of your dog’s ears regularly will help keep their ear canals free from wax build-up and helps to clean out any debris. For those husky’s that love a good swim, you’ll want to make sure that you dry their ears with a soft cotton pad as moisture build-up can lead to ear infections. There are plenty of ear cleaning kits that will help to relieve the itching and clean out the ears at the same time, plus they are made from natural ingredients so you won’t have to worry about nasty chemicals. 

Topical Treatments

There are a number of good topical creams and treatments out there that help relieve itching. Hydrocortisone creams can also be applied to itchy ears for instant relief and applied twice a day. Other topical treatments include Calendula Lotion, Mullein, and even dog-safe ear drops. 

Dietary Changes

One cause of itching can be a result of your dog’s diet, which experts say plays a huge role in their immune system. Dry or stale kibble can lead to bacterial imbalance and lower immunity. So if this is the case, you’ll want to ditch the kibble and replace it with moist, natural dog food instead. Making this switch will not only reduce the itching and risk of ear infections it will also benefit their fur and skin.

You could also add certain supplements to your husky’s diet if they are lacking this in their food. To help relieve itching you’ll want to look for anti-inflammatory substances like fish oil, vitamin E, Turmeric, and even probiotics. We strongly recommend that you check with your vet first before introducing any of these substances.

The post 5 Reasons Why Your Husky Is Scratching His Ear appeared first on Husky Habits.

Due to their personality traits and characteristics, Malamutes make great domestic pets. Their powerful stature and independent personality definitely make them great for families but they cannot be left alone for more than a few hours or they’ll start to get bored. They need to be trained and socialized from an early age or they will be a nightmare. Unfortunately, due to the demanding nature of these dogs, they often end up in rescue centers because people just cannot look after them and give them the loving care and attention they need. 

So, if you’re interested in getting an Alaskan Malamute, here are our 7 reasons why they’d make good domestic pets.

Their loving nature

Malamutes are a super gentle and loving breed. They are very fond of people which makes them perfect family dogs and therapy dogs. Due to their loving nature, Alaskan Malamutes are often used as therapy dogs in hospitals or with children. Another great thing about Malamutes is that they are relatively quiet and when they do vocalize they tend to do so by howling or “talking” which can make them quite entertaining.

You’d be forgiven for thinking these dogs make great guard dogs, but sadly as they love human interaction and are rather docile it makes them pretty unreliable for this. The most they will do for your property in terms of protection is intimidate possible trespassers.

Their physical appearance

Alaskan Malamutes have strong athletic frames beneath their thick coat of fur, which is one of their defining characteristics. Malamutes have a dual coat of fur. Their underneath coat is soft and insulating which is great for cold climates where they thrive, and their topcoat is coarse. Due to this, they do shed quite heavily.

Malamutes have been used to pull sleds throughout history which means they are incredibly powerful and they have great stamina. They are large dogs with facial features that can be likened to that of a wolf although they are not related. The average Alaskan Malamute can weigh around 80 pounds. Due to their size and imposing figure, many people are often scared of them but actually, there really is nothing to be afraid of. They are softies at heart.

Intelligence

Alaskan Malamutes are often too intelligent for their own good. They are smart and tenacious, and training a Malamute can be challenging. You need to be tough and keep up with your training techniques as it can take between 25 to 40 repetitions for your Malamute to grasp the command.

Alaskan Malamutes have been known to test their owners as well as question your authority, so you’ll want to establish your dominance over them early on so that they gain your respect. If you don’t, they won’t be afraid to walk all over you. Due to their intelligence, Alaskan Malamutes are known to manipulate their owners when they want something. Some Malamutes may even try different things to see how you’ll react, this shows they definitely know what they are doing. Although they require high amounts of mental stimulation to stop them from getting bored, the easiest way to do this is to take them out for long hikes, runs, or walks.  

Loyalty

An Alaskan Malamutes’ loyalty is second to none, simply because they are pack dogs. Unlike other breeds the malamute isn’t just loyal to a single person, they are loyal to the whole family. It’s this loyalty that leads them to be protective of the family, especially children or the more vulnerable members. This protectiveness if not formed into the correct behavior from an early age can quickly spiral out of control. They also have a natural instinct to lead the pack, and unless you insert your dominance they will rule the roost, which can lead to control issues and possible aggression. If you prove you’re the alpha and the leader they will forever be your friend.

Family-friendly

Alaskan Malamutes struggle with small dogs, animals, and very small children, this is due to their natural prey instincts. However, don’t let this put you off as early socialization and training is the key to keeping these behaviors in check. Malamutes are extremely friendly towards humans. After all, they’ve worked alongside them for centuries and they thrive on being within a family unit. When raised properly they can be an absolute joy to be around.

Despite their intimidating appearance, these dogs love a cuddle which makes them great with children, but as with all large breeds of dog, you should never leave your Alaskan Malamute alone with a child. Experienced Malamute owners will suggest that they are best for families of children over the age of 10. Malamutes are notoriously territorial when it comes to food so be wary of this and make sure your child doesn’t try to take food off them.

Independence

Alaskan Malamutes aren’t independent in the sense that you can leave them alone all day while you’re at work. They are more independent thinkers. This independent streak will often lead them to be curious and unless you have a very high, solid fence around your yard, be mindful that they will escape if left unsupervised.

Alaskan Malamutes will easily find things to do if they get bored, are left alone all day, or don’t get the exercise they require. You’ll want to try and avoid leaving them for more than a few hours on their own as they tend to turn to destructive behaviors like chewing (walls, sofas, toys) or digging when they get bored. Exercising them sufficiently before leaving them is a good way to make sure this doesn’t happen.

Playfulness

Alaskan Malamutes are working dogs so they constantly need mental stimulation and need plenty of exercise especially when growing up. Whether that’s through brain training, walking, running, or recreational sports like sledding, skijoring, or canicross. But for the most part, your Alaskan Malamute will be happiest when it’s with its family. You’ll also want to give your Malamute a job to do whilst they exercise as this is what they are bred for and you’ll also find they’ll enjoy it a lot more too.

So, do Alaskan Malamutes make good pets?

Yes, Alaskan Malamutes do make good pets, but they aren’t for everyone. They are great family pets and would be perfect if you love the great outdoors and are very active yourself.

Their intelligence combined with their stubbornness can make them challenging pets for first-time owners and those not savvy in dog behavior. As long as you are aware of their needs and the lifetime commitment you need to make then there is no reason these fun-loving dogs wouldn’t be a perfect choice. Remember to take into consideration these factors before making the commitment:

• They are working dogs and will require a minimum of 2 hours of hard exercise a day.
• They require at least 3 hours of your undivided attention per day.
• They are ‘lifestyle’ dogs which means they are high maintenance but they are also highly rewarding.
• They are great with children over the age of 10.
• They tend not to bark but they will howl and ‘talk’ a lot when bored or as a way of expressing themselves.
• They are best suited to houses with large yards and cooler climates. If you live in a hot country then air conditioning is paramount.
• You are best to get them as puppies so that training can be established early. 
• They aren’t huge fans of smaller dogs or animals but early socialization will help combat their natural prey instincts.

The post 7 Reasons Why Alaskan Malamutes Make Good Domestic Pets appeared first on Husky Habits.