Per the AKC, the primary criteria for judging the Malamute in a show is its ability to pull heavy freight as a sled dog; everything else is secondary.

Alaskan Malamutes are athletic dogs who love the outdoors, but can also thrive as house pets. Be forewarned, these dogs are heavy shedders - especially twice a year.

Another thing, they do like to dig and can do this out of boredom if they don't receive enough exercise. They can also be quite the talented escape artist so make sure that all gates and locks are secure before leaving your dog in any area outside.

Also, keep in mind in case you are thinking of adopting a malamute is that their dense coats generally make them unsuited for hot climates. This breed can be left outside during even the coldest winter but he will shed abundantly all year round - particularly in the summer so be forewarned.

Concerning their coat, the Alaskan Malamute undercoat is dense and regular brushing must be done to keep his coat in good condition. The coat color may be black-and-white with an off-white undercoat, red-and-white, or gray-and-white with an off-white undercoat.

The natural range in size in the breed is: males, 25 inches at the shoulders, 85 pounds; females, 23 inches at the shoulders, 75 pounds. They are thick-boned with a large, muscular body, and a heavy weather-resistant coat of medium length.

Country of origin: Alaska

Lifespan: 10-14 years

Colors: Black and white, white, sable, gray, red

Known health problems: Bloat, shoulder problems, hip dysplasia, dwarfism