Alaskan Malamutes live for about 12 to 15 years.
However, Alaskan Malamutes can live for up to 15 when well taken care of and generally healthy.
One of the most important aspects of keeping an Alaskan Malamute healthy is maintaining a healthy weight range. Alaskan Malamutes weigh between 75 and 125 pounds.
In addition to maintaining this, you have to identify and deal with health issues as early as possible. Here are a few of the most common issues they face.
Heat Intolerance
Alaskan Malamutes are built for cold weather in every way from their metabolic rates to their coats. They therefore tend to be very uncomfortable and even risk getting heat stroke in very hot weather.
If you are raising your Malamute pooch somewhere hot, make sure to find ways to keep them cool. Malamutes love swimming so something like an inflatable pool would do wonders for them.
Zinc Deficiency
Alaskan Malamutes are genetically predisposed to zinc deficiency as a result of poor absorption of the mineral. This leads to several symptoms affecting skin, fur, and general health.
Hypothyroidism
This is another disease, though not very common within the breed, that affects Alaskan Malamutes more than many other dog breeds. It is also widely seen in its relatives including the Greenland dog and Siberian Husky. The most common signs in this case are thinning of the coat, weight gain, and reduced energy levels.
Cancer
Cancer is the leading cause of death in Alaskan Malamutes. It usually occurs in old age but has also been known to affect Malamutes in middle age around 5 to 7 years. Early detection and treatment are key to the dog’s survival.