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TEMPERAMENT
The Alaskan Malamute is not a
‘one man dog’.
The breed does not have a
territorial (guarding) instinct, other than what they regard as
their food and space.
The Eskimos nomadic way of life
has helped to shape the dogs temperament; home was where camp
happened to be at the time and varied in location and duration.
The dogs were not used for
protection as everything was shared, however the dogs would
alert the camp to danger in the form of bears or strangers.
The Malamute has a highly
developed pack instinct. In their urge to establish their place
in the social hierarchy, many Malamutes show aggression towards
other animals.
If its owner does not correctly
discipline the dog for social infractions, the family (which are
perceived by the Malamute as his pack members) will become
included in the Malamute's quest for dominance.
Many owners are unable to
understand and cope with this strong pack instinct, which leads
to most of the temperament problems encountered in the breed.
The Alaskan Malamutes is an
animal which retains its independence and is willing to accept
responsibility. This is a trait which would save it, it’s team
and it’s drivers life on occasion.
Many owner and trainers misread
this independent thinking – to the inexperienced the breed is
seen as stubborn and difficult.
The Malamute is highly
intuitive, a trait to which prospective owners would give ample
consideration. If a person is either afraid or suspicious of the
breed, a Malamute will quickly sense this apprehension and act
accordingly, by either questioning or taking advantage of it.
With correct
training and socialisation a Malamute can be a good pet for the
right family, but the original function, and survival instinct
of the breed, should never be forgotten.
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