Alaskan Malamute. Thomas Stockman

       Choosing a breeder is not always easy. If possible, observe adult dogs of the breeder’s bloodline to see if you like how they mature.

      Once you have contacted and met a breeder or two and made your choice about which breeder is best suited to your needs, it’s time to visit the litter. Keep in mind that many top breeders have waiting lists, so be prepared to wait for a puppy. If you are really committed to the breeder whom you’ve selected, then you will wait (and hope for an early arrival!). If not, you may have to go with your second- or third-choice breeder. Don’t be too anxious, however. If the breeder doesn’t have a waiting list, or interest in his puppies, there is probably a good reason.

       The temperament and personality of the dam will be reflected in her progeny. Like begets like, and if you don’t like the dam, you likely won’t be happy with one of her pups.

      Since you are likely choosing an Alaskan Malamute as a pet dog and not a working dog, you simply should select a pup that is friendly and attractive. While the basic structure and temperament of the breed has little variation, individual personality varies from pup to pup. Beware of the shy or overly aggressive puppy; be especially conscious of the nervous Alaskan Malamute pup. Don’t let sentiment or emotion trap you into buying the runt of the litter.

      The sex of your puppy is largely a matter of personal taste, although males grow up to be a bit larger. Coloration is not a grave concern with this breed; the color pattern you choose in a pet dog is based on your personal preference. Alaskan Malamutes are beautiful dogs with striking markings, and color does not affect their potential as a pet or working dog. Remember that these dogs were bred primarily for working ability, not beauty; Malamutes are natural beauties whose form was intended for their function.

      Breeders commonly allow visitors to see the litter by around the fifth or sixth week, and puppies leave for their new homes between the eighth and tenth week. Breeders who permit their puppies to leave early are more interested in a profit than in their puppies’ well-being. Puppies need to learn the rules of the trade from their dams, and most dams continue teaching the pups manners and “dos and don’ts” until around the eighth week. Breeders spend significant amounts of time with the Alaskan Malamute toddlers so that they are able to interact with the “other species,” i.e., humans. Given the long history that dogs and humans have, bonding between the two species is natural but must be nurtured. A well-bred, well-socialized Alaskan Malamute pup wants nothing more than to be near you and to please you.

       A SHOW PUPPY

      If you plan to show your puppy, you must first deal with a reputable breeder who shows his dogs and has had some success in the conformation ring. The puppy’s pedigree should include one or more champions in the first and second generation. You should be familiar with the breed and breed standard so you can know what qualities to look for in your puppy. The breeder’s observations and recommendations also are invaluable aids in selecting your future champion. If you consider an older puppy, be sure that the puppy has been properly socialized with people and not isolated in a kennel without substantial daily human contact.

       It’s not easy to select a puppy from a litter of healthy, happy and well-bred Malamute puppies, as one is as cute and irresistible as the next!

       A COMMITTED NEW OWNER

      By now you should understand what makes the Alaskan Malamute a most unique and special dog, one that will fit nicely into your family and lifestyle. If you have researched breeders, you should be able to recognize a knowledgeable and responsible Alaskan Malamute breeder who cares not only about his pups but also about what kind of owner you will be. If you have completed the final step in your new journey, you have found a litter, or possibly two, of quality Alaskan Malamute pups.

       SIGNS OF A HEALTHY PUPPY

      Healthy puppies are robust little fellows who are alert and active, sporting shiny coats and supple skin. They should not appear lethargic, bloated or pot-bellied, nor should they have flaky skin or runny or crusted eyes or noses. Their stools should be firm and well formed, with no evidence of blood or mucus.

      A visit with the puppies and their breeder should be an education in itself. Breed research, breeder selection and puppy visitation are very important aspects of finding the puppy of your dreams. Beyond that, these things also lay the foundation for a successful future with your pup. Puppy personalities within each litter vary, from the shy and easygoing puppy to the one who is dominant and assertive, with most pups falling somewhere in between. By spending time with the puppies, you will be able to recognize certain behaviors and what these behaviors indicate about each pup’s temperament. Which type of pup will complement your family dynamics is best determined by observing the puppies in action within their “pack.” Your breeder’s expertise and recommendations are also valuable. Although you may fall in love with a bold and brassy male, the breeder may suggest that another pup would be best for you. The breeder’s experience in rearing Alaskan Malamute pups and matching their temperaments with appropriate humans offers the best assurance that your pup will meet your needs and expectations. The type of puppy that you select is just as important as your decision that the Alaskan Malamute is the breed for you.

       PEDIGREE VS. REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE

      Too often new owners are confused between these two important documents. Your puppy’s pedigree, essentially a family tree, is a written record of a dog’s genealogy of three generations or more. The pedigree will show you the names as well as performance titles of all dogs in your pup’s background. Your breeder must provide you with a registration application, with his part properly filled out. You must complete the application and send it to the AKC with the proper fee. Every puppy must come from a litter that has been AKC-registered by the breeder, born in the US and from a sire and dam that are also registered with the AKC.

      The seller must provide you with complete records to identify the puppy. The AKC requires that the seller provide the buyer with the following: breed; sex, color and markings; date of birth; litter number (when available); names and registration numbers of the parents; breeder’s name; and date sold or delivered.

       Malamute puppies should be outgoing and friendly toward visitors. Choose the puppy that chooses you!

      The decision to live with an Alaskan Malamute is a serious commitment and not one to be taken lightly. This puppy is a living sentient being that will be dependent on you for basic survival for his entire life. Beyond the basics of survival—food, water, shelter and protection—he needs much, much more. The new pup needs love, nurturing and a proper canine education to mold him into a responsible, well-behaved canine citizen. Your Alaskan Malamute’s health and good manners will need consistent monitoring and regular “tune-ups,” so your job as a responsible dog owner will be ongoing throughout every stage of his life. If you are not prepared to accept these responsibilities and commit to them for the next decade, likely longer, then you are not prepared to own a dog of any breed.

      Although the responsibilities of owning a dog may at times tax your patience, the joy of living with your Alaskan Malamute far outweighs the workload, and a well-mannered adult dog is well worth your time and effort in raising him right. Before your very eyes, your new charge will grow up to be your most loyal friend, devoted to you unconditionally.

       YOUR ALASKAN MALAMUTE SHOPPING LIST

      Just as expectant parents prepare a nursery for their baby, so should you ready your home for the arrival of your Alaskan Malamute pup. If you have the necessary