Tips for Prospective Owners - Minnesota Malamute Club

The Minnesota Malamute Club offers the following recommendations for those who are considering adding a Malamute to their lives. First and foremost, be sure you really do want a Malamute. This means researching the breed both at the library and speaking with other owners. They are wonderful dogs, but they won't fit into all lifestyles. In looking for a Malamute, the following guidelines can provide a framework for your search.

Both parents x-rayed clear of hip dysplasia. (See breed problems) Request an OFA certification on both parents.
Both parents certified clear of chondrodysplasia (See breed problems)
Both parents clear of eye problems
Temperament - neither parent should display signs of either extreme agression or extreme shyness
Ask for information on health problems of parents. Are either on medication (other than normal prophylactic medication, such as heartworm prevention)?
Will the breeder offer a contract with responsibilities clearly stated in the event problems arise?
Are the puppies healthy, outgoing, and are they in a clean, well-maintained environment?
Ask questions, visit the breeder's kennel and find a breeder with whom you can work.
Be willing to wait for the right puppy. Responsible beeders do not have puppies available at all times.
Be willing to be vetted by the breeder. A good breeder is going to ask a lot of questions to determine if you are "right" for one of his or her puppies. Think of it as an interview process, because indeed that is what it is.
Make sure you understand the Malamute temperament.
- They are generally dog-aggressive, meaning they will tend to be argumentative with other dogs of the same sex.
- They are prey-driven and are hunters by nature. They will not generally co-exist peacefully with small animals, such as cats.
- They have a propensity for digging holes and will happily terraform your yard.
- They cannot be allowed to run loose.
- They are big dogs and require exercise.
- They are people-oriented dogs and do not do well if isolated in a kennel and left alone for much of the time.
- They are not guard dogs.

Linda Dowdy
Bethel, Minnesota
Comments or questions? E-mail me at lindowdy@visi.com