Newfoundland vs Alaskan Malamute
Size Category
Medium
Ideal For
Families, Multi-pet Homes
Maintenance Level
Low
Size Category
Medium
Ideal For
First-time Owners, Active People
Maintenance Level
High
Decision Helper
Quick Decision Guide
Newfoundland might be better if you:
- Want a dog great with children
- Have other pets at home
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
- Live in an apartment or prefer quiet dogs
- Often have visitors or socialize frequently
Alaskan Malamute might be better if you:
- Want an easily trainable dog
- Lead an active lifestyle
Find Your Match
Quick Match Quiz
Question 1 of 7
What best describes your lifestyle?
Breed Overview
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a large, powerful dog known for its impressive swimming ability and gentle nature. They typically weigh between 100 to 150 pounds, with a thick, water-resistant double coat that can be black, brown, gray, or Landseer (white with black markings). Newfoundlands are characterized by their large, webbed feet, broad head, and expressive eyes. Their temperament is often described as sweet, patient, and devoted, making them excellent family pets and companions. They are known for being good with children and other animals, displaying a calm demeanor and a willingness to please. Newfoundlands are also intelligent and trainable, but they can be somewhat independent and may require consistent, positive reinforcement training methods.
Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a large and powerful dog breed known for its strong build and endurance. They have a thick double coat that is typically gray, black, sable, or red, with white markings. Malamutes are friendly, affectionate, and highly social dogs, often forming strong bonds with their families. They are intelligent and independent, requiring consistent training and socialization from an early age. Known for their playful nature, they enjoy outdoor activities and are great companions for active families. Their strong prey drive and instinct to roam mean they require secure fencing and supervision when outdoors.
Key Statistics
Life Expectancy
Height (Male)
Weight (Male)
Breed Characteristics
Good with Children
Excellent with children
Good with children
Good with Other Dogs
Very social with other dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Shedding
Moderate shedding level
Moderate shedding level
Grooming Needs
Low grooming needs
Moderate grooming needs
Trainability
Moderately trainable
Highly trainable
Energy Level
Moderately energetic breed
Very energetic breed
Barking Tendency
Minimal barking tendency
Moderate barking tendency
Care Requirements
Care Requirements
Newfoundland
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush their thick coat at least once a week to prevent matting.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet suitable for their size and age.
Health Care
Regularly check and clean their ears to prevent infections.
Alaskan Malamute
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Groom regularly to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet appropriate for their age and size.
Health Care
Groom regularly to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush their thick coat at least once a week to prevent matting.
Grooming
Groom regularly to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet suitable for their size and age.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet appropriate for their age and size.
Health Care
Regularly check and clean their ears to prevent infections.
Health Care
Groom regularly to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Additional Care Notes
Newfoundland
- •Schedule routine veterinary check-ups.
Alaskan Malamute
- •Brush teeth regularly to prevent dental issues.
Training & Exercise
Training & Exercise Guide
Newfoundland
Newfoundland dogs require consistent and positive reinforcement training starting from a young age. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel should be taught using treats and praise. Socialization with other dogs, people, and different environments is crucial to help them develop into well-rounded adults. Training sessions should be kept short and engaging to maintain their interest.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness or independence in training sessions
- •Sensitivity to harsh corrections, requiring a gentle approach
- •Tendency to be overly friendly, making recall training challenging
- •Heavy shedding and grooming needs, which can distract from training focus
Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes require consistent and positive reinforcement-based training from an early age. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel should be taught alongside socialization with people and other animals. Regular training sessions should be short and engaging to maintain the dog's interest.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness during training sessions
- •Strong prey drive leading to distractions
- •Separation anxiety if left alone for long periods
- •Difficulty in socializing with other dogs due to their strong-willed nature
Newfoundland
Newfoundland dogs require consistent and positive reinforcement training starting from a young age. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel should be taught using treats and praise. Socialization with other dogs, people, and different environments is crucial to help them develop into well-rounded adults. Training sessions should be kept short and engaging to maintain their interest.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness or independence in training sessions
- •Sensitivity to harsh corrections, requiring a gentle approach
- •Tendency to be overly friendly, making recall training challenging
- •Heavy shedding and grooming needs, which can distract from training focus
Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes require consistent and positive reinforcement-based training from an early age. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel should be taught alongside socialization with people and other animals. Regular training sessions should be short and engaging to maintain the dog's interest.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness during training sessions
- •Strong prey drive leading to distractions
- •Separation anxiety if left alone for long periods
- •Difficulty in socializing with other dogs due to their strong-willed nature
Training Resources
Newfoundland Training Guide
Alaskan Malamute Training Guide
Find Breeders
Find Newfoundland Breeders
Find Alaskan Malamute Breeders
Local Search Tips
When looking for a reputable breeder in your area, consider these approaches:
- 1.
Contact local veterinarians for breeder recommendations - They often know reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and proper care.
- 2.
Join breed-specific clubs in your area - These communities can provide valuable connections and insights about responsible breeders.
- 3.
Attend local dog shows to meet breeders - This gives you the opportunity to see their dogs and discuss breeding practices in person.