How big does a Alaskan Malamute get?

A full-grown Alaskan Malamute typically stands 58–64 cm (22.8–25.2 inches) tall at the shoulder and weighs 34–39 kg (75.0–86.0 lbs). Alaskan Malamute is considered a giant breed and may take up to 18–24 months to reach full size.

What is the lifespan of a Alaskan Malamute?

The average lifespan of a Alaskan Malamute is 10–14 years. Giant breeds typically have shorter lifespans than smaller breeds. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important factors in extending your dog's lifespan — overweight dogs can lose 1–2 years of life expectancy.

What are the personality traits of a Alaskan Malamute?

Alaskan Malamute are known for being affectionate, loyal, playful, dignified. They are generally good with children and make excellent family dogs. They can be challenging to train and benefit from experienced handlers. They need plenty of space and exercise, making them better suited for homes with yards.

Is a Alaskan Malamute a good choice for apartments and families?

A Alaskan Malamute is a giant breed that typically needs more space and exercise, so they may not be ideal for small apartments. They are generally good with kids and make great family companions. Be prepared for significant shedding — regular brushing 2–3 times per week is recommended.

What are common health issues for giant breed dogs like the Alaskan Malamute?

Giant breeds like the Alaskan Malamute face increased risks of bloat (GDV), hip/elbow dysplasia, heart conditions, and bone cancer. Their large size puts extra stress on joints, making weight management critical. Keeping your dog at an ideal weight is the single most effective way to reduce the risk of many of these conditions. Use our BCS assessment tool above to check your dog's condition.

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Alaskan Malamute Weight & Calorie Guide

Q: How many calories does a Alaskan Malamute need per day?

A typical adult Alaskan Malamute weighing about 37 kg needs approximately 1663–2079 kcal per day, depending on activity level and neuter status. Puppies and very active dogs need more, while seniors and neutered dogs need less. Use our breed-specific calculator for an exact number.

Giant Breed

Quick Answer

A healthy adult Alaskan Malamute weighs 34–39 kg (75.0–86.0 lbs), according to the AKC breed standard. Puppies reach 50% of adult weight by 8–12 months and full weight by 18–24 months.

Source: AKC breed standard, WSAVA nutrition guidelines

Quick Facts

Ideal Weight

34–39 kg

(75.0–86.0 lbs)

Size Category

giant

Breed Type

Daily Calories

~1663–2079 kcal

Adult, neutered

Free Tools

BCS Assessment Calorie Calculator

Ideal Weight Range

34 kgto39 kg

75.0 lbsto86.0 lbs

UnderweightIdealOverweightObese

Data:AKC breed standard·WSAVA guidelines

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How the puppy weight predictor works

This predictor uses growth milestone data from Salt et al. (2017), published in Veterinary Record, which tracked the weight development of dogs across five size categories from birth to adulthood. By comparing your puppy's current weight against the expected growth percentage for their age and size category, we estimate their adult weight range.

Factors that affect adult weight

Genetics play the largest role, but nutrition, neutering status, and overall health also influence growth rate. Puppies fed excessive calories during rapid growth phases may exceed their genetic weight potential, while underfed puppies may not reach it. Large and giant breeds grow more slowly than toy and small breeds, reaching full size at 18–24 months rather than 10–12 months.

Data source: Salt et al. (2017) "Growth patterns of commercial kennel dogs" Veterinary Record • AKC breed standards

Alaskan Malamute Health & Weight Management

Alaskan Malamutes are powerful, dignified Arctic sled dogs built for endurance hauling. They are the heaviest of the Arctic breeds and possess incredible strength. Their thick double coat and robust frame can mask gradual weight gain. Excess weight stresses joints already prone to hip dysplasia and chondrodysplasia. Malamutes are also prone to bloat; maintaining lean body condition reduces multiple health risks.

Exercise: 45–60 minutes of daily structured exercise — long walks, carting, hiking, and weight-pulling activities. Malamutes need a job; they excel at sledding and packing. Avoid exercising in hot weather; they are extremely heat-sensitive. Swimming is good low-impact conditioning.

Feeding tips: Feed measured meals twice daily using a large/giant-breed formula. Malamutes are not aggressive beggars but will eat whatever is offered. Avoid free-feeding. On days without heavy exercise, reduce portions. Consider joint supplements (glucosamine, fish oil).

Keeping your Malamute at a healthy 75–86 lbs (34–39 kg) supports joint health and heat tolerance. Use PawScale’s calorie calculator for Malamutes to set daily limits, check body condition with our BCS tool, and follow the crate size calculator.

Data source: AKC breed standard

Data source: AKC breed standard • Last updated: 2026-08-12

Is your Alaskan Malamute at a healthy weight?

59% of dogs are overweight — can you tell? Take our free 2-minute Body Condition Score assessment.

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Alaskan Malamute Calorie Calculator

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much should a Alaskan Malamute weigh?

The ideal weight for a Alaskan Malamute is 34–39 kg (75.0–86.0 lbs). Giant breeds have slower metabolisms, so weight management is especially important. Use our calorie calculator above to get personalized feeding recommendations.

How many calories does a Alaskan Malamute need per day?

A typical adult Alaskan Malamute weighing 37 kg needs approximately 1663–2079 kcal per day, depending on activity level and whether they are neutered. Use our breed-specific calculator above for an exact number based on your dog's details.

Is my Alaskan Malamute overweight?

59% of dogs are overweight, and most owners cannot tell just by looking. Check your Alaskan Malamute's Body Condition Score (BCS) — if you can't easily feel their ribs or they have no visible waist from above, they may be overweight. Take our free 2-minute BCS assessment above to find out.

When does a Alaskan Malamute reach full adult weight?

Alaskan Malamute puppies reach 50% of their adult weight by 8–12 months and typically reach full adult weight by 18–24 months, according to AKC growth guidelines. Small breeds mature faster than large breeds.

What size crate does a Alaskan Malamute need?

A Alaskan Malamute typically needs a 48-inch crate based on breed size. Use PawScale's free crate size calculator for a personalized recommendation.

References & data sources

1. AKC Official Breed Standard — Alaskan Malamute. akc.org

2. Salt C, et al. “Estimating the expected growth of dogs.” Vet Record, 2017;180(15):376.

3. National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, 2006.

4. Laflamme DP. “Development and validation of a body condition score system for dogs.” Canine Practice, 1997;22(4):10–15.

5. WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines; Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) 9-point BCS scale.

Last reviewed: September 2026

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