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The post 13 Vet-Verified Alaskan Malamute Facts That You’ll Love to Learn by Misty Layne appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Alaskan Malamutes are some of the most gorgeous canines around, as well as some of the hardest working. This spitz breed is made for heavy-duty work and has incredible endurance. Despite their use as work dogs, they’re more often found as beloved family pets; with their friendly, loyal, and playful temperaments, these dogs make excellent companions!

You might think you know everything about the Alaskan Malamute, but we have 13 facts below that might show you don’t. If you want to learn more about this well-loved dog breed, keep reading!

The 13 Alaskan Malamute Facts

1. The Malamute name comes from an Inuit tribe.

The original breeders of the Alaskan Malamute were the Mahlemut. This nomadic Inuit tribe lived in northwestern Alaska on the shores of the Kotzebue Sound. They bred Alaskan Malamutes to work as pack animals and sled dogs. You can find mentions of the breed in the Mahlemut’s early literature, as these dogs were vital to their way of life and survival.

Image Credit: Slavica Stajic, Shutterstock

2. Alaskan Malamutes are an ancient breed.

This dog breed is an ancient one that dates back around 5,000 years! In fact, the Alaskan Malamute is considered one of the world’s oldest Arctic sled dog breeds. Though their name comes from an Alaskan Inuit tribe, these dogs originated in Siberia and were introduced to North America millennia ago after crossing the Bering Strait.1

3. This breed is credited with helping Alaska become open to settlement.

It may seem odd that a dog breed is credited with helping open a place for settlement, but this is the case with the Alaskan Malamute. Why are they credited with aiding in the development and growth of Alaska? Because these dogs were used for work such as transporting supplies and carrying mail, they helped expand the reach of people living in Alaska to areas outside it. This helped encourage others to move to the area.

4. The Alaskan Malamute nearly went extinct.

Did you know this breed almost went extinct? During the 1896 Klondike Gold Rush, sled dogs, including the Alaskan Malamute, were in high demand. However, once people had Alaskan Malamutes, they began crossbreeding them with canines in their local areas to help keep up with the high demand for sled dogs. This means the pure bloodline of the Alaskan Malamute was almost lost. Thankfully, the bloodline was saved as the Mahlemut tribe still has some of these dogs and was able to breed more of them.

Image Credit: Tatyana Kuznetsova, Shutterstock

5. Alaskan Malamutes took part in the 1925 Serum Run.

You might’ve heard of the 1925 Serum Run, as it’s an important piece of history.2 The Serum Run occurred when a deadly diphtheria outbreak hit Nome, Alaska. They desperately needed the antitoxin to the disease but getting it there would be challenging. However, an Alaskan Malamute named Balto and a Siberian Husky named Togo led a sled dog team through incredibly harrowing conditions to safely deliver the antitoxin to the town, saving the people of the town in the process. The feat was so heroic a statue of Balto was erected in Central Park!3

6. This breed was used in both World Wars.

Alaskan Malamutes have a long history of helping out humans. Not only have they been used to carry supplies and heroically transport antitoxins, but they were also utilized during World War I and World War II. In WWI, around 450 of these dogs were sent to France to help deliver supplies to isolated mountain outposts where French army troops were stationed.4 During WWII, this breed was used for a variety of tasks, including carrying weapons and acting as search-and-rescue dogs. Alaskan Malamutes have accomplished a number of heroic deeds!

7. The Alaskan Malamute became the official state dog of Alaska in 2010.

As you can see, the Alaskan Malamute has been vital to the history of Alaska, so it makes sense that they eventually became the official state dog. On April 18, 2010, the breed was officially voted in as the state dog due to their significant role in Alaskan history.5 However, this was all possible thanks to major efforts made by teachers and students from a school located in Anchorage!

Image Credit: Happy monkey, Shutterstock

8. Purebreds of this breed come from one of three bloodlines.

All of today’s purebred Alaskan Malamutes come from one of three distinct bloodlines: the M’loot, Hinman, and Kotzebue. The Kotzebue is the name of the line on which the first breed standard was based. This line’s breed standard was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1935.6 Around this time, two more Alaskan Malamute bloodlines were created. Dick Hinman created the Hinman line, while Paul Voelker created the M’Loot line.

9. Some Alaskan Malamutes carry a gene responsible for day blindness.

What is day blindness? Day blindness, also known as hemeralopia, is a rare genetic health condition responsible for causing the degeneration of cone cells in the eye. This degeneration results in a canine being blind in well-lit or brightly lit conditions; however, they can see fine in dimly lit conditions. The genetic mutation responsible is more prevalent in certain breeds including the Alaskan Malamute. Day blindness can be debilitating and, unfortunately, has no cure.

10. This breed is one of the larger sled dogs around.

Alaskan Malamutes are large pups weighing between 75 and 85 pounds and standing 23 to 25 inches tall. This makes them one of the largest sled dogs around! The breed is also naturally muscular since they’ve been bred to pull heavy loads on sleds. This can make them appear even stockier.

Image Credit: Happy monkey, Shutterstock

11. Alaskan Malamutes are one of the slower sled dog breeds.

The Alaskan Malamute may be built for strength, but the breed isn’t built for speed. Because they’re so large and bulky, these canines don’t go as fast as other sled dogs. They make the journey while carting heavy loads, but they’ll do it at a slower pace. This is why they need such incredible endurance. Alaskan Malamutes do have an advantage, though; with their bulk and coats, they can pull sleds even in extreme weather (like Balto did!).

12. An Alaskan Malamute’s coat provides excellent protection.

Speaking of the Alaskan Malamute’s coat, this is one of their more distinctive features and provides them with a lot of protection against the elements. Because their coat is thick, waterproof, and layered, it can help keep them dry in rain and snow. Plus, it keeps them exceptionally warm when operating in subzero temperatures.

The downside of this breed’s coat is that it worsens things in hot weather. So, if you have one of these pups and live somewhere with extreme heat, you need to keep a close eye on your pup when they’re outdoors to ensure they don’t become overheated!

13. These dogs love howling!

Alaskan Malamutes can be pretty vocal. Some individuals bark more than others but they are known for their quirky noises. What they do instead of barking is share their thoughts and opinions via howling. These can be shorter howls or the long, haunting kind, and come out more often when they’re having a great time or playing around.

Image Credit: Kate Lussier, Shutterstock

Conclusion

Alaskan Malamutes have a long, storied history and are truly fascinating canines. Whether they’re helping humans save entire towns or just playing in the backyard with their families, these dogs are fantastic to have around. Hopefully, you’ve learned something new about this breed today that you can share with family and friends!

You might be interested in: How Much Does It Cost to Own an Alaskan Malamute?

Featured Image Credit: Jia Images, Shutterstock

The post 13 Vet-Verified Alaskan Malamute Facts That You’ll Love to Learn by Misty Layne appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

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The post 23 Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed (With Pictures) by Matt Jackson appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

Small dog breeds are very popular because they take up less room, can comfortably sit on your lap without crushing you, and they don’t generally need as much exercise as bigger dogs. But the problem with them having access to your lap is that heavy shedders can leave behind clouds of hair that get up your nose and cause sneezing and other reactions, not to mention a layer of fur on your clothes. For many of us, this is an acceptable price to pay, but for those with allergies or an aversion to being covered in fur, finding a canine companion that doesn’t cover you and your home in hair may be high on your list of priorities.

Below, we look at 23 small dog breeds that don’t shed too much to help you find the one that is best for your family.

Is There Such a Thing as Dogs That Don’t Shed?

Every dog sheds to some extent. However, while some dogs like Labradors and German Shepherds are known for being heavy shedders, others shed minimally. These low shedders are considered more hypoallergenic than other breeds because they are less likely to cause reactions in dog allergy sufferers. Although there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog, those that shed less tend to trigger less of a reaction than those that do.

With some care and maintenance, you can further reduce shedding to help further ease dog hair problems in the house, too.

The 23 Low-Shedding Small Dog Breeds

1. Affenpinscher

Image Credit: Didkovska Ilona, Shutterstock

The Affenpinscher is a German breed that was originally reared to hunt and kill mice. Their friendly nature and cute little face meant they soon became popular as companion dogs. Growing to around 10 inches, these dogs are considered more hypoallergenic than most because they naturally shed very little.

And while they do like some attention, they aren’t generally clingy lap dogs which means there’s minimal risk of you ending up with pants covered in dog hair at the end of the day.

2. Basenji

Image Credit: George Trumpeter, Shutterstock

The Basenji is a little bigger than most of the dogs on this list, but it is unique because it is classed as both a sighthound and a scenthound. It has incredible senses of smell and sight, which it originally used to hunt small animals. The Basenji is also unusual because it will usually bark just once before going quiet, even when alerting owners to potential danger often referred to as the “barkless dog”, using an array of different vocalizations, including yodeling, howling, and ‘talking’ rather than barking, while others tend to be very quiet.1

Some people believe that the breed is only partially domesticated, having changed very little over the centuries, and plenty of socialization and training from a young age is essential.

3. Bedlington Terrier

Image Credit: Rita_Kochmarjova, Shutterstock

Another slightly larger breed than a lot of the terriers on this list, the Bedlington Terrier hails from England where it was used to hunt vermin and to work alongside hunters. They have coats that are similar to the fleeces of sheep and the breed is loving and very playful.

They make good watchdogs, but will usually befriend most people, including strangers, although they do require early socialization to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted family pups. Their curly coats shed very little, and coupled with their unusual domed heads, you can see why people often call them ‘lamb dogs’.

4. Bichon Frise

Image Credit: Spill Photography, Shutterstock

The Bichon Frise is a similar size to the Affenpinscher but very different in other respects. While the Affenpinscher has wiry hair, the Bichon Frise has soft curls. They have big, black eyes which can give this breed the look of a child’s toy.

The Bichon is a happy, cheerful little pup that will dote on your attention, and while this makes it a great companion pet, it also means that they can suffer separation anxiety, so they may not be the best breed for families that are out at work all day.

5. Border Terrier

Image Credit: Colin Seddon, Shutterstock

The Border Terrier originates from the border regions between England and Scotland. The terrier was used to flush foxes out from their holes and assist in hunts, but it is now kept primarily as a family pet or companion dog. They love human companionship, almost as much as they love a good adventure, and are great little dogs to travel with.

Despite the modern Border being a companion breed, it does retain some of its terrier instincts, and you can expect your little wire-haired pup to dig and chase. Their short, wiry coats are very low maintenance, apart from the mud and sand they are likely to pick up when out exploring!

6. Brussels Griffon

Image Credit: otsphoto, Shutterstock

The Brussels Griffon is another terrier breed with wiry hair. Their faces have been likened to those of gargoyles in churches and old buildings, adding to the appeal of this charming little breed. Again, the terrier instinct is evident in the breed, and you will need to provide plenty of daily exercise to ensure that the Griffon doesn’t become too much of a handful or too mischievous.

They are also known to form very strong bonds with their owners, which makes them a great choice as companion animals.

7. Cairn Terrier

Image Credit: Eve Photography, Shutterstock

The Cairn Terrier originates from the Isle of Skye off the coast of Scotland and is best known for being the breed of dog that played Toto in The Wizard of Oz. The breed was originally used by farmers to help get rid of vermin from farms and barns, and it is a lively little dog that enjoys playing and having fun.

Like a lot of small breeds, the Cairn Terrier can suffer separation anxiety so if you intend to be out of the house for long periods, you will need to consider getting a dog walker and having a friend or family member come over to provide walks.

8. Chinese Crested

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The Chinese Crested dog has a very distinctive appearance, with a virtually bald body and a mane of wispy hair on the head, around the feet, and a little tuft on the tail. It is believed they were bred and kept on boats to help control vermin that would otherwise steal grain and food. Today, they are very sociable little companion dogs that will befriend just about anybody, including strangers.

They are lively and playful, and that bald body means they shed a lot less than other dog breeds, but they can be prone to skin problems and sunburn, and will need to be kept warm in winter.

9. Coton de Tulear

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The Coton de Tulear looks similar to, and is likely related to, the Bichon Frise and the Maltese breeds. They are playful little dogs that are somewhat energetic, and they will get along with anybody including strangers as well as family. They are smart and easy to train, which makes them great dogs for first-time owners.

They shed minimally and do not produce a lot of dander, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers.

10. Havanese

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The Havanese originates from Cuba and is a cute dog with a rounded face and floppy ears. It is a playful dog that has very little prey drive, but it is lively and enjoys playing with its humans.

It was bred as a companion dog and remains so to this day, and well bred Havanese dogs cost quite considerable sums of money. The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba.

11. Italian Greyhound

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Although on the taller side of being a small dog, the Italian Greyhound is lithe and light. It was bred to hunt small game, and while it isn’t quite as fast as the Greyhound, it still has an incredible turn of pace. The breed is known for being quiet, but they do need plenty of exercise and attention from their humans.

The breed is considered to be good with other dogs as well as children, so it can make a very good family pet. And because it is low maintenance and sweet-natured it is also considered a good pet for first-time owners. The Italian Greyhound originated in the Mediterranean, but got its name when it was popularized in Italy.

12. Lakeland Terrier

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The Lakeland Terrier was bred in the Lake District in England and was used primarily to chase off foxes that were worrying sheep. Like most of the dogs on this list, the small size of the Lakeland Terrier means that it can adapt to living in an apartment, but it does have moderate to high exercise needs that need to be met to ensure that the dog is well-behaved and well-adjusted.

It is a loyal and loving breed that will get along with its family as well as with strangers.

13. Lhasa Apso

Image Credit: Audrius Merfeldas, Shutterstock

The Lhasa Apso is a long-haired small breed that grows to around 10 inches tall. It was bred to be a monastery watchdog in its homeland of Tibet, and it is a lively, energetic, dog that still takes its watching duties seriously.

Their luscious long locks can be hard work to manage, so many owners keep their Lhasa’s hair clipped to a more manageable medium or short length. The breed can be prone to barking, which is considered an essential trait for a watchdog.

14. Maltese

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The Maltese breed is an intelligent and playful little breed that comes from the Mediterranean island nation of Malta, and was bred to be a small, companion dog. It is playful and because it was not bred to work or hunt, it doesn’t have excessive exercise requirements or a high prey drive, making it an ideal dog for people with restricted mobility or smaller homes.

These energetic little dogs still need a short walk every day, and they love to play, but they are generally considered to be a relatively low-maintenance dog that will give plenty of love and affection to their owners. Their silky white fur sheds very little, and, like the Lhasa Apso, becomes very easy to manage if clipped to a shorter length.

15. Toy and Miniature Poodles

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The Poodle comes in three sizes (standard, miniature, and toy), with the Miniature typically measuring around 10-15 inches to the shoulder, and the diminutive Toy Poodle coming in at around 9 inches tall. All sizes of Poodle are low shedding, intelligent, and generally easy to train. The smaller Poodles love company – human or animal – and can be prone to separation anxiety. However, boredom-busting puzzles and crate training can help keep them calm when you are out.

However, the low shedding coat does require regular brushing and you will need to have your Poodle professionally groomed at least every three months or so.

16. Miniature Schnauzer

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The Miniature Schnauzer is a working dog breed that was originally used to hunt rats and other vermin, but it is now popularly kept as a companion. It is a lively dog that forms a strong bond with its owners.

It does have moderate exercise requirements but is relatively low maintenance and is very intelligent so can be easily trained by a patient, caring owner. Their coat is low shedding, but does require a bit of attention and a professional groom every few months.

17. Norfolk Terrier

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The Norfolk Terrier is very similar to the more rare Norwich Terrier, but is distinguished by having floppy ears, compared to the upright pinnae of the Norwich. Both breeds are lively, energetic, and playful, but their rat-chasing heritage means that they have a strong prey drive and love to chase anything that moves.

If your Norfolk catches sight of a small animal, or something it believes to be a small animal, and gives chase, you might find it difficult to get them back, so training them in recall is a must.

18. Yorkshire Terrier

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With soft flowing hair in a combination of blue, black, and gold, the Yorkshire Terrier is a firm favorite among lap dog lovers. Their small size and loving personalities brought them out of the ratter roles they were originally bred for, and into the homes of Victorian ladies in the 1800s.

Their silky coats can grow quite long, but most owners keep them at a no-nonsense shorter clip, and their low shedding rate make these tiny dogs relatively low maintenance companions. They can be a bit feisty, so it’s a good idea to get them out and about and socialization as early as possible.

19. Scottish Terrier

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The Scottie, as it is affectionately known, is a working dog breed, although it is most commonly kept as a pet breed nowadays. This terrier breed makes a very good watchdog and will bark an alert at the presence of strangers or any potential danger.

They are very skilled at agility, and they love to dig, but they also make fun and loving companions in the home.

20. Silky Terrier

Image Credit: Radomir Rezny, Shutterstock

Often mistaken for their English cousins, the Silky Terrier is larger, and somewhat more robust than the Yorkshire Terrier, but with a more silky, flowing coat that sheds minimally during the year. Additionally, the ears of the Silky Terrier are more upright than those of the Yorkie, and their teeth are larger too. The Silky does enjoy chasing small animals and requires a moderate amount of exercise, although those little legs mean that a couple of reasonable, moderate walks per day should be enough.

This playful little character makes a great family pet that will entertain and provide plenty of love.

21. Skye Terrier

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The Skye Terrier originates from the Isle of Skye in Scotland and was bred to hunt and kill animals including badgers and foxes. It is a very rare breed, even in the UK, and is actually considered endangered. One Skye Terrier rose to fame in Scotland when, in 1852, Greyfriars Bobby, stood vigil at his master’s grave for 14 years; a tale worth reading.

If you are fortunate enough to own one, you will find a friendly, albeit somewhat shy, little dog breed. A good choice for first-time owners, the Skye Terrier can live in apartments but doesn’t enjoy being left alone for too long.

22. West Highland White Terrier

Image Credit: Dora Zett, Shutterstock

Nicknamed Westies, West Highland Terriers are confident dogs that love to have fun and especially enjoy spending time with their humans. They are friendly and lively, will get along with strangers as well as family members, and are intelligent so they can be trained easily by owners who turn training sessions into fun playtime sessions.

You will need to provide a reasonable amount of exercise, though, as these are spirited and lively little companions. Their low shedding coat is relatively low maintenance, but they are somewhat prone to skin conditions, so they may not be the most ideal for those looking for a more hypoallergenic breed

23. Xoloitzcuintli (toy variety)

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The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced ‘show-low-eats-queent-lee), or Xolos as they are most commonly known, are an ancient breed dating back at least 5000 years to the Aztecs, and it doesn’t get much more non-shedding than a hairless dog!

Like the Poodle, Xolos come in a standard, miniature, and toy size – a Xolo to suit everyone! Bred as guard dogs and protectors, these intelligent dogs are extremely loving and loyal, friendly to people and generally get along well with other dogs.

Energetic and clever, the Xoloitzcuintli needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them from becoming bored and frustrated.

How to Deal with Shedding

Even the breeds above shed, although they are minimally shedding dogs. There are a few things you can do to help further minimize the impact of dog coat shedding, including daily brushing, regular vacuuming, and feeding your dog a high quality diet.

Poor diet can lead to skin and coat problems that exacerbate the shedding problem.

Conclusion

All dogs shed, but some dogs shed so little that you don’t really notice apart from the occasional hair wafting by during shedding season. If you are an allergy sufferer but are desperate for a pet dog, the breeds listed above may be suitable. However, as no dog is completely hypoallergenic, severe allergy sufferers should speak to their doctor before considering getting a pet.

Even with one of these breeds, though, you will benefit by regularly brushing your dog, bathing them, and investing in a decent hoover that can deal with the rigors of picking up dog hairs.

Featured Image Credit: Eudyptula, Shutterstock

The post 23 Small Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed (With Pictures) by Matt Jackson appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post Afollie: Pictures, Info, Care Guide & More by Chantelle Fowler appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The Afollie is an interesting hybrid dog breed that combines the dignified and regal appearance of the Afghan Hound with the energetic and extroverted temperament of the Collie. This hybrid carries an air of nobility and grace while also bringing a child-like love of play and affection to the table. The Afollie certainly is a steadfast and loyal companion, but this breed isn’t right for every family.

Breed Overview

The Afollie is a designer dog resulting from breeding an Afghan Hound with a Collie. They are very loyal and affectionate toward their humans and can make good watchdogs as they’re quite vigilant and unafraid to alert their owners if intruders are afoot. They may combine the Afghan Hound’s cat-like, aloof, and dignified temperament with the Collie’s lively, gentle, and faithful disposition.

Afollie Puppies

Image Credit: (L) otsphoto, Shutterstock | (R) Ricantimages, Shutterstock

Finding a breeder specializing in Afollies may be challenging. We were unable to find any in our search, but that doesn’t mean they don’t exist. There is just more of a focus on “popular” hybrid mixes, such as Goldendoodles. If you have your heart set on this unique designer breed, you’ll have better luck scouring your local humane societies and animal rescues for pups awaiting adoption.

Afollie Origin & History

Since the Afollie is a hybrid dog breed, their exact history and origin are unknown. However, we do have an established origin story for both of the parent breeds.

Afghan Hounds are one of the oldest breeds in existence. They originated in Afghanistan, where nomadic tribes used them to chase prey. They first arrived in England during the 1900s, and by the 1970s, they had become very popular as status dogs. Nowadays, however, it is rare to see Afghan Hounds outside of the show ring.

Collies originated in Scotland during the 1800s. While the exact rootstock is unknown, some believe the breed was derived from the same ancestors as the Border Collie. Queen Victoria fell in love with the gentle and devoted Collie and added her first to her kennel in the mid-1800s. Between her love of the breed catching the eye of other dog fanciers and the rise of the Lassie movies and television shows in the 1950s, Collies cemented their place in the world as a fine family dog and companion.

Image Credit: Left- WildStrawberry, Shutterstock | Right – claupad, Shutterstock

Temperament & Intelligence of the Afollie

The Afollie is a loyal and gentle companion with a playful and clownish streak. They bond closely with their families, though depending on which parent breed they favor, they may be aloof or excitable around strangers.

Collies are the quintessential extrovert of the canine world. These gregarious dogs actively seek companionship from their owners, have a genuine love of children, and are fantastic adventurers.

Afghan Hounds, on the other hand, are more independent and dignified. They’re gentle and silly but can also be very introverted and shy, especially when socialization wasn’t adequate in their early years.

These intelligent dogs can learn quickly but may become bored easily. They need engaging and varied training sessions to capture their attention and challenge them. The exact intelligence level of the Afollie can vary greatly. Afghan Hounds top the list as one of the “dumbest” dog breeds, at least according to Stanley Coren, an expert in dog intelligence. Collies, on the other hand, crack the top twenty most intelligent dog breeds.

Are These Dogs Good for Families?

The Afollie can make a great family pet, especially if they take after their Collie side in temperament.

Collies are known for their gentle and devoted companionship and their playful side. They’re incredibly affectionate with humans, especially children. Their high energy level makes them ideal playmates, though they also know how to kick back and relax with the family indoors.

Afghan Hounds are very clownish and playful; however, their independent and aloof nature can make playtime frustrating for younger kids who want nothing more than to play with their dogs. These pups tend to be one-family dogs and can be very reserved and aloof toward strangers and guests.

Afollies can be adequate watch dogs, but they’re not great at providing protection. They will happily alert you to anything out of the ordinary, but their alert nature does give them a tendency to be exuberant barkers. However, this can be addressed through training.

Image Credit: (L) David Raihelgauz, Shutterstock | (R) claupad, Shutterstock

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?  

Afollies can get along well with other animals, even cats. The highly social nature they may have inherited from their Collie side allows them to be great companions with other dogs. However, Afghan Hounds are generally just “fine” with other pets. You can increase the likelihood of a harmonious transition into a multi-pet or multi-species home by raising the two animals together. Proper socialization and training will also be critical to this transition.

It is important to remember, however, that an Afollies’ Afghan Hound side may give them a high prey drive. This may make living with smaller animals and pocket pets extremely challenging, as your pup may be prone to giving chase and even attacking them. Supervision will be necessary.

Things to Know When Owning an Afollie

Food & Diet Requirements

Since the Afollie is a high-energy and athletic dog, they’ll need a high-quality diet with superb nutrition to meet their needs. The diet you choose should be appropriate for your pup’s life stage (e.g., puppy, adult, or senior). Your vet may also recommend a diet formulated for large breeds or highly active dogs. They may also suggest food containing omega fatty acids to keep your pup’s coat shiny and healthy.

Since Afollies can be prone to bloat, it’s best to feed two feedings daily as opposed to one to reduce their risk of developing this potentially life-threatening condition.

Image Credit: (L) DragoNika, Shutterstock | (R) Alla Pogrebnaya, Shutterstock

Exercise

The Afollie is an athletic and active dog. If they are more Afghan than Collie, they may prefer spending time inside with their family than going outside on adventures, but they’ll still be naturally active and require a fair amount of daily exercise.

You should expect to provide, at minimum, 90 minutes of exercise per day, but the more you can offer, the better. These pups may do better in homes with a large, secure backyard where they can burn off excess energy between their walks. But don’t leave them in the yard alone for too long, as they may turn to unwanted behaviors like barking if they become bored.

Get creative with the exercise opportunities you offer your Afollie. They will love playing fetch and may even enjoy dog sports like lure coursing or agility. However, since your pup has sighthound blood in their veins, be careful about allowing them to run around off-leash, as they may have a strong instinct to run off in pursuit of prey.

Training

The Afollie may be slightly challenging to train, especially if they inherit the Afghan Hound’s stubborn and somewhat aloof nature. However, their high intelligence and eagerness to please can be helpful during training sessions.

If your Afollie takes after their Collie side, they’ll have a genuine love of learning and training. They’ll want to continue training sessions and challenge themselves well into adulthood. If they’re more like their Afghan parent, teaching basic commands will generally be sufficient. However, many Afghan owners find that no amount of training can out-train their dog’s hunting instinct and break off their instinct to engage in high-speed chases.

Afollies can excel in obedience, agility, and herding, which can be a fun way to bond with your pup and encourage mental and physical stimulation.

Grooming

Your Afollie’s coat will require regular maintenance. At a minimum, you should expect to brush them at least two or three times weekly; however, your pet’s coat length, texture, and exact care requirements will depend entirely on which parent breed they take after.

Collies can either have smooth or rough coats. Smooth-coated pups won’t mat like their rough-coated counterparts, but they’ll still need brushing, especially during the shedding period.

When Afghan Hounds are puppies, their coats are very short and fuzzy and won’t need much maintenance. However, they won’t stay that way forever. These pups will develop long, silky coats that will call for several hours of care weekly to keep them free of tangles and mats. Additionally, they will need regular bathing with dog-friendly shampoo and conditioner to keep their coats healthy and shiny.

Image Credit: (L) Raywoo, Shutterstock | (R) MOAimage, Shutterstock

Health and Conditions

While the hybrid Afollie may be healthier than their purebred parents, they can still be at risk of developing the conditions that plague their parent breeds.

Collies and Afghan Hounds can be prone to conditions that frequently affect large breeds, such as bloat and hip dysplasia.

Collies are particularly at risk for collie eye anomaly, an inherited eye disease affecting the deep structures of the eye. They can also develop MDR1 mutation, a genetic condition that impacts how they process drugs. According to the Collie Health Foundation, the breed may also be at risk for degenerative myelopathy, progressive retinal atrophy, and dermatomyositis.

According to the Afghan Hound Club of America, these dogs can be at risk for chylothorax, a disease that occurs when chyle accumulates in the thoracic cavity. They may also develop necrotic myelopathy and may react to barbiturate anesthesia.

Male vs Female

Male and female Afollies differ in size. Males will generally be taller and heavier than their female counterparts. Differences in personality between sexes are primarily anecdotal. For every Afollie owner who says their male is gentle and more affectionate than their female is an owner who says the complete opposite is true of their pups.

Image Credit: (L) Maria Ivanushkina, Shutterstock | (R) VKarlov, Shutterstock

3 Little-Known Facts About the Afollie

1. The Afollie is a working dog.

Both foundation breeds for the Afollie hybrid are born and bred working dogs. Afghan Hounds were used to hunt fast prey like rabbits and gazelle, while Collies were developed as herding dogs to work with sheep and cattle.

2. The Afollie is very sensitive.

The Afollie is a sensitive hybrid dog that generally does not do well with an irregular daily routine, a noisy household, and frequent visits from strangers. They thrive on predictability and prefer spending time in the presence of their families.

3. Afollies are not agressive.

The foundation breeders for the Afollie hybrid are generally not considered aggressive. That said, they may have the potential for mouthiness. This means they may tend to nip, chew, or playfully bite. This is something that can be addressed during training to ensure it doesn’t develop into an unwanted and dangerous habit when your Afollie becomes an adult.

Final Thoughts

The Afollie is a unique hybrid with many redeeming characteristics from both foundational breeds. These gorgeous dogs are intelligent, energetic, and generally quite trainable. Their personalities can range from aloof and introverted to extroverted and sweet. These loyal and affectionate pups bond closely with their family members and are suitable for living alongside other pets and children.

The Afollie combines the striking appearance and regality of the Afghan Hound with the intelligence and outgoingness of the Collie. They are great companions for experienced dog owners who prioritize exercise and time outdoors. The Afollie needs an owner with confidence who can step into the alpha role and be the good role model they need to grow into a well-behaved adult.

Afollies do indeed have much to offer their human families. If you’re seeking an active, loyal, and affectionate dog and have the time and space to meet their high energy needs, this may just be the right breed for you.

Featured Image Credit: (L) Irma07, Shutterstock | (R) Photobox.ks, Shutterstock

The post Afollie: Pictures, Info, Care Guide & More by Chantelle Fowler appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The post How Long Do Alaskan Malamutes Live: Average Lifespan, Data & Care (Vet-Approved) by Ashley Bates appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.

The Alaskan Malamute is a semi-popular dog breed that thrives in cold weather. The thick-coated animals are much like a Siberian Husky, only they’re blockier and sturdier. If you love the look and overall description of the Malamute, you likely wonder more details about the breed before you commit.

One question will surely rise. How long do Alaskan Malamutes tend to live? Ultimately, it depends on several factors relating to genetics, environment, and overall care. Let’s dig into the details of the Alaskan Malamute lifespan.

Alaskan Malamute Average Lifespan

On average, an Alaskan Malamute lives between 10 and 14 years. Several different factors go into the overall answer about this. However, there are averages you should consider.

Sometimes, lifespan is up to fate. A dog might be perfectly healthy and end up getting injured, causing them to pass away. Sometimes death is not so easy to foresee. However, as long as all goes as planned, these guys can have reasonable lifespans.

Image Credit: J. Photos, Shutterstock

How to Care For Your Alaskan Malamute for a Long Lifespan?

The way you care for your dog severely impacts their lifespan. Even though it might not seem like much of a big deal feeding your dog table scraps, skipping vet visits, or letting them slack off on exercise, it can severely impact them beyond what you can see.

If you want to give your dog the best life possible and ensure that they are with you as long as time will allow, here are some areas of care you can’t skip out on.

Feeding & Diet

Giving your dog a complete and balanced species-appropriate diet that is tailored for their life stage is crucial for their longevity. The better the nutrition, the lower the likelihood of them developing certain health conditions as they age. Ultimately, you should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about the specific types of dog food that would work best for your canine.

Generally speaking, this particular breed requires a protein-dense recipe that will nourish their large bodies and help them stay in the best shape. Alaskan Malamutes burn quite a few calories in a day’s time if they get the exercise they need.

Proteins help replenish muscles and keep dogs physically fit. Alaskan Malamutes rely heavily on intense exercise to burn those excess calories. So, if they have too many calories and not enough exercise, it can cause weight gain, but if they don’t have enough calories and too much exercise, it can seriously deplete them and impact many of the different organs in their bodies.

Image Credit: Andrii Spy_k, Shutterstock

Environment

Environment plays a huge role in your Alaskan Malamute’s lifespan. A safe and reliable environment will ensure that they steer clear from dangers and don’t have access to potentially toxic or hazardous elements in the home or on the property.

If they are extremely stressed, don’t exercise, or they’re repeatedly exposed to certain toxins, it can impact the overall health and lifespan of your dog. It is important to provide a dog-friendly space to ensure your four-legged buddy sticks around as long as possible.

Healthcare

Healthcare is extremely important for any dog. The Alaskan Malamute is no exception. These dogs require regular vetting to get ahead of any health issues that might come along, including an annual or biannual check up to make sure your dog is in good health and their vaccination and parasite control is up to date.

It also includes being able to afford emergency visits. More and more families are switching to pet insurance policies these days to combat the ever growing cost of vet care and get peace of mind at all times. If you try to pay out of pocket for these sorts of costs, it can really break the bank.

Routine vet checkups are an unavoidable expense you can plan for, but emergency visits can arise unexpectedly, often leading to treatments and surgeries that may catch you unprepared. It’s always best to have an emergency fund and to prepare for anything.

Image Credit: Pressmaster, Shutterstock

The Life Stages of an Alaskan Malamute

The life stages of an Alaskan Malamute is much like that of any other dog. They are puppies, young adults or adolescents, then mature adults, then seniors. Each one of these life stages means different things for dogs. Let us explain!

Puppies

Dogs are considered puppies until they are roughly 9 months of age. Some dogs are slower to mature than others, and some dogs don’t stop growing until they’re about 2 years old. For the Alaskan Malamute specifically, these dogs are usually done growing by the time they reach 12 months of age.

After that, your dog can continue to fill out, but they rarely get taller. Puppies are extremely active and grow very rapidly. Since this dog is considered a large breed, they will amaze you with how fast they grow and how much they are capable of learning along the way.

Image Credit: Eve Photography, Shutterstock

Young adults

Dogs complete their physical and social maturation during their young adult phase. This occurs in Malamutes approximately between 9 months old and 3–4 years of age. Some dogs are slower to mature than others, and some dogs don’t stop their physical growth until they’re about 2 years old. For the Alaskan Malamute specifically, these dogs are usually done growing by the time they reach 18 months of age.

Mature adults

Adult Alaskan Malamutes will stay roughly the same size, permitting they aren’t gaining or losing a bunch of weight, until they reach seniorhood. You have to be very careful when your dog gets spayed or neutered, as they can often increase in weight if portions aren’t controlled.

Keeping your dog healthy can mean many things when they’re an adult. You might find that you have to switch recipes a couple of times to accommodate for weight gain and other factors.

If your dog is sensitive to anything and their dog food, you might also have to adjust their diet and exercise plan to avoid or manage certain kinds of allergies.

Image Credit: Tatyana Kuznetsova, Shutterstock

Seniors

When your Alaskan Malamute is a senior, this will likely be after they reach about 7–10 years of age. During this stage, you will have to feed your dog a maintenance diet that supports their waning bodies.

Most Alaskan Malamutes will stay very physically fit and strong throughout their senior years, though they may show their age in other ways. To make sure that your dog feels their best, it is still important at this stage to make sure that they have adequate exercise in a day and that they remain an ideal weight.

You know what they say, if you don’t use it, you lose it. That’s very true for your dog’s overall physical health.

How to Tell Your Alaskan Malamute’s Age

The only true way to tell your Alaskan Malamute’s age is if you know exactly when they were born, which is likely to be true if you purchased the dog from a breeder. If an Alaskan Malamute is still quite young, it can be pretty easy for a vet or even yourself to determine how old they are looking at their teeth. It might only be estimations, but you’ll be able to get a pretty good idea. If a dog is already a full-grown adult, it can be a little trickier.

However, you can get your dog thoroughly examined and look for signs that indicate aging. Sometimes, a vet can determine roughly how old a dog is based on the animal’s eyes, for example.

Other times, a rough estimate might be all you have to go by. If you adopt an Alaskan Malamute, they might seem extra old if they have had a hard life. Or in the reverse scenario, they might be extremely puppy-like, which can make it even trickier.

Conclusion

Now you understand roughly how long an Alaskan Malamute lives and all of the different factors that go into it. As you now know, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long any one dog will ever live. Life is a gamble for all of us, including our pets.

However, there are certain responsible things that you can do as an owner to ensure their longevity. After all, you want your dog to be with you as long as humanly possible.

Featured Image Credit: Hanna Borysenko, Shutterstock

The post How Long Do Alaskan Malamutes Live: Average Lifespan, Data & Care (Vet-Approved) by Ashley Bates appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.