When it comes to strong,
healthy dogs, the Alaskan Malamute ranks high. This
particular breed originated in Alaska where it was
used for hunting, hauling, and sledding. Although
some people still use the Alaskan Malamute for these
purposes, others have discovered the gentle, loving
nature of the dog, preferring to make it a family
pet. With the Malamute being gentle with children,
you have a great protector, as well as trusted
companion.
Typically, the Alaskan Malamute will live
between 10 and 12 years of age. If kept on high
quality dog food, groomed properly, and exercised
daily, this breed will live a relatively healthy
life. As with other large breed dogs, the Alaskan
Malamute is prone to hip dysplasia. With this
condition, the hip ball and socket become loose,
making walking and climbing both painful and
awkward. The good news is the many medications and
supplements are available for this problem. In fact,
surgery to include hip replacement is another
possible solution although strict criteria must be
met.
The Alaskan Malamute can
suffer from other illnesses as well to include
Chrondodysplasia, Inherited Polyneuropathy,
Progressive Retinal Atrophy, and cataracts. With
Chrondodysplasia, the problem relates to a genetic
deformation disorder in which crippling problems
ensue. Interestingly, this disease is often confused
with a type of dwarfism when it fact, it involves
short and deformed limbs. Typically, a dog with this
condition will have other health issues such as
deafness. Ultimately, an Alaskan Malamute with
Chrondodysplasia would expect to have a much shorter
life.
Inherited Polyneuropathy is a
condition that affects cats and dogs. In this case,
the peripheral nerves are involved, which usually
causes motor nerve dysfunction. Symptoms of this
disease include low muscle tone, no to little
reflexes, paralysis, and weakness. Although
Inherited Polyneuropathy can affect the front legs,
it is primarily a rear leg disease, which causes
problems bilaterally. In addition, this condition
can come on quickly but most often, it is a slow
progressing disease.
One of the important things specific to the
Alaskan Malamute is that if you live in a warmer
climate, do not shave the hair as a means of keeping
the dog cool. Interestingly, the double coat helps
them handle the heat better. Therefore, if you were
to have your Malamute shaved, you would actually be
making it more miserable and possible prone to
sickness. By keeping your dog indoors or providing
adequate shade, along with cool, fresh water, it
will tolerate outside fine.
Sitemap |
Web Feeds
