The Alaskan Malador, or Alaskan Lab, are friendly and affectionate dogs that get along with just about everyone. The Alaskan Malador is a hybrid of the Alaskan Malamute and a Labrador Retriever, and just like its parents, the breed makes a good sporting and companion dog.
Alaskan Malador History
There is not a lot known about the beginning history of the Alaskan Malador, and the date of origin ranges from the 1800s to the early 1900s. The Alaskan Malamute is one of the oldest sled dog breeds of the Artic and can be traced back over 4,000 years and are ancestors of the domesticated wolf-dogs.
The Labrador Retriever originated in Newfoundland, Canada in the 1700s, before making their way to the United Kingdom, and finally to the United States. Originally known as the St. John’s Water Dog, the breed was used to help fishermen retrieve fish and fishing nets. When in England it was discovered that they were great at retrieving while on hunting trips as well, so today they are used mostly as land retrievers, but still have a deep love for the water.
Alaskan Malador Characteristics
Alaskan Maladors are a breed that hasn’t fully stabilized yet, meaning that they can get any combination of physical traits from their parent breeds. There are several eye color possibilities including blue, hazel, brown, and amber. Noses can come in black or brown, and the Alaskan Malador fur can be cream, brown, white, red, black, sable, silver, blue, or gray.
The coats of the Alaskan Maladors tend to be medium in length and very dense, with a straight texture. Generally, they will have pendant-shaped, floppy ears, much like their Labrador parent, and large padded paws. Their paws aren’t the only thing about them that will be large, the males will grow to be about 25 inches and 85 pounds, while the females will be a tiny bit shorter at 24 inches and approximately 10 pounds lighter at 75 pounds.
Alaskan Malador Temperament/Personality
Alaskan Maldors are energetic and lovable dogs that love outdoor play and human company. They become so attached to their owners that they can suffer from separation anxiety when not with their people.
The Alaskan Malador gets along great with everyone in the family, both young and old. Due to their sheer size and power, it is recommended that they not be left alone with smaller children as they can inadvertently get hurt.
In some cases, if they take more after their Alaskan Malamute parent, they can show aggression towards other male dogs upon first meeting.
Caring for Alaskan Malador
Caring for an Alaskan Malador takes some work as they are active dogs who tend to shed and require some constant grooming and attention.
Alaskan Malador Nutrition
Alaskan Maladors should be fed approximate 2 ½ cups of a high-quality kibble a day, broken into two meals, one in the morning and one at suppertime. As they are a high energetic, active breed, it is important to ensure that they are getting the proper nutrients for their size and activity levels. Due to being an offshoot of the Labrador Retriever, they have a propensity to be overweight, so at times you may need to adjust their portion sizes to keep them at a proper weight.
Alaskan Malador Grooming
Alaskan Maladors shed a lot, and all the time, particularly during the change in seasons. Daily brushing is recommended to stay on top of the shedding and prevent any mats or tangles that may form. Bathing should only be done every other month if it can be helped, as just like it’s Labrador parent, they have a tendency to develop dry skin.
Alaskan Malador Activity Levels
The Alaskan Malador is a very energetic and active breed who benefits from regular exercise and should have at least 60 to 90 minutes a day of physical activity. Both parent breeds love the outdoors and adventures and the Alaskan Malador is no different in this sense. Vigorous exercise is recommended in the form of a strenuous hike, swimming, a large area to run around in, and some play time with other dogs.
Alaskan Malador Maintenance
The Alaskan Malador should have their teeth brushed on a daily basis, their floppy ears checked and cleaned weekly, and their nails trimmed about once a month.
Alaskan Malador Health
There are several health concerns that can arise with an Alaskan Malador, mainly having to do with eyes and joints. Some of the major concerns are gastric torsion, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, chondrodysplasia, and osteochondritis dissecans.
Some minor health concerns to be on the lookout for should include otitis externa, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, glaucoma, skin problems, and diabetes.
Don’t let this deter you from this breed as these dogs have an average lifespan between 10-15 years, which is longer than many other breeds.
Breeds Similar to Alaskan Malador
Best Dog Food for Alaskan Maladors
Upon a close evaluation of the physique of an Alaskan Malador and his activity demands, the best dog food for these dogs is Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dog Food. This dog food has been cooked to provide a holistic meal that is efficient enough to keep your Alaskan Malador’s immune response and digestive system above the par. The makers have used a recipe that is devoid of any fillers and lacks whole-grains as well because they are often difficult to digest.
- Features a rich blend of protein sourced from real turkey meal, chicken, and deboned turkey
- Natural meat is the number one ingredient in this meal.
- Fortified with probiotics
Best Puppy Food for Alaskan Maladors
The best puppy food for an Alaskan Malador is the Merrick Grain-Free Real Chicken + Sweet Potato Recipe, as it is so far the most well-rounded meal plan which an Alaskan Malador puppy would need. This puppy food features a higher protein proportion, as 60% of the meal plan covers healthy fats and proteins. The remaining diet features the other dietary essentials, which eventually makes it easier for your Alaskan Malador to assimilate proteins.
- Helps build stronger bones and muscles
- Features an antioxidant-rich recipe to develop a better immune response
- Features as a precise blend of vitamins and minerals
Best Dog Crate for Alaskan Maladors
You need a safe and secure dog crate that will help you keep a good check on your pet pal when you are not around, so the best dog crate for an Alaskan Malador is Precision Pet Products Great Crate Collapsible Wire Dog Crate. This dog crate is engineered to have two doors, whose sole purpose is to provide your Alaskan Malador greater flexibility in movement. Overall, this crate has a sturdy and durable finish, so it can be used for an extended period.
- Features electro-coated wires
- Comes with a removable base, which makes cleaning easier
- Comes with a divider panel which helps you adjust the space where your Alaskan Malador will relax
Best Dog Bed for Alaskan Maladors
You have to ensure that you bring a cozy dog bed for your Alaskan Malador to provide him comfort, and the best one in this regard is Frisco Plush Orthopedic Front Bolster Dog Bed. This bed is designed while keeping your Alaskan Malador’s comfort into consideration; that’s why the makers have added an orthopedic-grade foam to make a relaxing surface. The bed has bolsters on almost all sides, but it has a portion that lacks bolsters; thus, the Alaskan Malador can climb his bed conveniently.
- Features a removable cover
- Can be washed in a machine
- Available in various sizes
Best Dog Harness for Alaskan Maladors
The best dog harness for Alaskan Maladors is Chai’s Choice 3M reflective Dog Harness, as this harness is engineered to help you steer your Alaskan Malador most effortlessly. This dog harness has been designed to have a dual-clip design, so you have the flexibility to clip the leash at your desired position to optimize control. The addition of a padded chest and back makes your Alaskan Malador more comfortable during his training and walking sessions.
- Available in various attractive colors
- Lined with reflective material for better visibility in lowlight
- Entirely crafted using polyester, which makes it a durable option.
Best Dog Collars for Alaskan Maladors
We know that you are willing to bring in a collar that would help you optimize your walking experience with your Alaskan Malador, so the best one in this regard is Blueberry Pet Paisley Print Dog Collar. This dog collar comes in exciting colors and patterns and features a uniquely comfortable outlook due to the utilization of a high-density polyester webbing padded with neoprene. The fitting of this collar is completely adjustable, so you can customize the fitting.
- Available in a wide range of sizes
- Features an additional loop to clip dog charms
- Features eco-friendly plastic buckle
Best Dog Muzzle for Alaskan Maladors
The best dog muzzle for managing an Alaskan Malador’s behavioral issues is Four Paws Walk-About Quick-Fit Dog Muzzle, as this muzzle has been designed while keeping your Alaskan Malador’s snout in mind. It has been sewn efficiently and is generally used by professionals as well. The makers have used a durable nylon material to design the muzzle, as that makes it last longer.
- Available in seven sizes
- Comes with adjustable straps for a better fitting
- Can be washed in a machine
Best Dog Toys for Alaskan Maladors
The best dog toy for an Alaskan Malador is the one that helps you keep him engaged and lets you get the most out of a training session; so, it will not be wrong to say that KONG Classic Flyer Frisbee Dog Toy is the best one your Alaskan Malador can get. This dog toy has been designed using a high-quality rubber. Therefore, it is pretty obvious that it will have a flexible design, which would not injure your Alaskan Malador.
- Features a buoyant design
- Lighter in weight
- Great for fetching and training sessions
Best Dog Brush for Alaskan Maladors
The best dog brush for Alaskan Maladors is Safari Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush, as this brush helps groom the inner as well as the outer coat. This dog brush is designed to have fine pins that are angled to avoid skin irritation or raking. The pins are made using stainless steel and designed to have a retractable outlook, making it easier for you to clean them.
- Features an ergonomic design
- The handle features a rubber sheathed grip for greater ease.
- Lighter in weight
Best Dog Shampoo for Alaskan Maladors
The best dog shampoo to give a fine finish to your Alaskan Malador’s look is Paws & Pals Oatmeal, Shea Butter, and Aloe Vera Dog Shampoo. It has been formulated in a way that helps provide immense comfort and relaxation to your Alaskan Malador. The best part about this shampoo is that its formulation is 100% natural, so it does not trigger any adverse skin disorders.
- Features a well-regulated pH
- Does not cause any irritation in the eyes
- Helps cleanse and nourish your Alaskan Malador’s coat
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