If you are looking for a dog that is large, powerful, and stunning, you might want to consider an Alaskan malamute. This breed is one of the oldest and most majestic of the sled dogs, with a thick and fluffy coat that can withstand harsh weather conditions. But what makes some Alaskan malamutes even more special is their eye color. Some of them have blue eyes, which is a rare and striking feature that adds to their charm and appeal. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Alaskan malamutes with blue eyes, including their history, origin, genetics, health, personality, temperament, care, and training.
The History and Origin of the Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan malamute is named after the Mahlemut tribe, a native Inuit people who lived in the coastal regions of Alaska. The Mahlemut people bred these dogs for centuries, using them as companions, hunters, and pack animals. They valued their dogs for their strength, endurance, intelligence, and loyalty. The Alaskan malamutes helped them survive in the harsh and isolated environment, pulling heavy sleds, carrying supplies, and protecting them from predators. The Mahlemut people also treated their dogs with respect and affection, sharing their food and shelter with them.
The Alaskan malamute was recognized as a distinct breed in the early 20th century, when they became popular for polar expeditions and gold rush activities. They also participated in races and competitions, showcasing their speed and agility. However, the breed also faced some challenges, such as crossbreeding, overbreeding, and disease, which threatened their purity and health. Fortunately, some dedicated breeders and enthusiasts worked hard to preserve and improve the breed, ensuring its survival and popularity. Today, the Alaskan malamute is one of the most beloved and admired dog breeds in the world, and a loyal and devoted companion to many families.
The Genetics and Health of Blue-Eyed Malamutes
One of the most distinctive features of some Alaskan malamutes is their eye color. While most malamutes have brown eyes, some of them have blue eyes, which is a rare and beautiful sight. Blue eyes are caused by a genetic mutation that affects the pigmentation of the iris. The mutation reduces the amount of melanin, which is the pigment that gives color to the eyes, skin, and hair. As a result, the eyes appear blue, due to the reflection and scattering of light.
Blue eyes are not accepted by some breed standards, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), as they are considered a fault or a sign of mixed ancestry. According to these standards, the ideal eye color for malamutes is brown, ranging from dark to amber. However, other organizations, such as the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the International All Breed Canine Association (IABCA), do not penalize blue eyes, as long as they are not associated with any health problems.
Blue-eyed malamutes may be more prone to certain health issues, such as eye disorders, deafness, and skin cancer. Some of these issues are linked to the merle gene, which is responsible for the mottled or patchy coat pattern that often accompanies blue eyes. The merle gene can also affect the pigmentation of the inner ear and the eye, leading to hearing and vision impairments. Moreover, the lack of melanin can make the skin more sensitive to sun exposure and damage, increasing the risk of skin cancer. Therefore, blue-eyed malamutes should be checked regularly by a veterinarian, and protected from excessive sunlight.
The Personality and Temperament of the Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan malamute is a dog that has a lot of personality and temperament. They are intelligent, independent, and confident, but also friendly, affectionate, and playful. They are loyal and devoted to their owners, but also social and outgoing with other people and animals. They are energetic and adventurous, but also calm and relaxed at home. They are curious and eager to learn, but also stubborn and willful at times.
The Alaskan malamute is a dog that needs a lot of attention and stimulation, both physical and mental. They are not suitable for apartment living, as they require a large and secure space to run and play. They also need a lot of exercise, at least an hour or two of vigorous activity every day. They enjoy activities that challenge their body and mind, such as hiking, jogging, swimming, agility, and obedience. They also love to pull, as it is in their nature, so they can be trained to pull carts, sleds, or bikes.
The Alaskan malamute is a dog that requires a lot of guidance and leadership, both firm and gentle. They are not recommended for novice or timid owners, as they can be dominant and challenging. They need an owner who is confident, consistent, and respectful, who can establish clear rules and boundaries, and who can provide positive reinforcement and praise. They also need an owner who is patient, understanding, and flexible, who can adapt to their changing needs and moods, and who can provide variety and fun.
The Care and Training of the Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan malamute is a dog that requires a lot of care and training, both regular and specific. They have a thick and fluffy coat that sheds heavily twice a year, and moderately throughout the year. They need to be brushed daily, especially during the shedding seasons, to remove loose and dead hair, and to prevent mats and tangles. They also need to be bathed occasionally, as needed, to keep their coat clean and healthy. They also need to have their ears cleaned, their nails trimmed, and their teeth brushed regularly, to prevent infections, injuries, and dental problems.
The Alaskan malamute is a dog that requires a lot of training, both early and ongoing. They need to be socialized from a young age, to expose them to different people, animals, and situations, and to teach them how to behave appropriately and confidently. They also need to be trained in basic obedience, to learn commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel, and to follow their owner’s directions and cues. They also need to be trained in advanced skills, such as recall, leash walking, and crate training, and to overcome some of their common issues, such as digging, barking, and chasing.
The Alaskan malamute is a dog that responds well to positive and reward-based training methods, such as praise, treats, toys, and games. They do not respond well to negative and harsh training methods, such as yelling, hitting, or scolding, as they can become fearful, aggressive, or resentful. They also need to be trained with consistency and repetition, as they can be forgetful, distracted, or bored. They also need to be trained with creativity and variety, as they can be smart, curious, and playful.
Conclusion and FAQs
The Alaskan malamute is a dog that is rare and beautiful, especially when they have blue eyes. They are a breed that has a long and rich history, a unique and striking appearance, a complex and fascinating personality, and a special and demanding care and training. They are a breed that is not for everyone, but for those who are willing and able to provide them with the love, attention, and stimulation they need, they can be a wonderful and rewarding companion.
Here are some FAQs that you might have about Alaskan malamutes with blue eyes:
- Q: How common are blue-eyed malamutes?
- A: Blue-eyed malamutes are very rare, as they are caused by a genetic mutation that is not common in the breed. According to some estimates, only about 1% of malamutes have blue eyes.
- Q: Are blue-eyed malamutes purebred?
- A: Blue-eyed malamutes can be purebred, as long as they have no other signs of crossbreeding, such as merle coat pattern, white markings, or unusual size. However, some blue-eyed malamutes may be mixed with other breeds, such as Siberian huskies, Australian shepherds, or border collies, which also have the blue eye gene.
- Q: Are blue-eyed malamutes more expensive?
- A: Blue-eyed malamutes may be more expensive than brown-eyed malamutes, depending on the breeder and the demand. Some breeders may charge more for blue-eyed malamutes