When you combine an Alaskan Malamute and a German Shepherd, it creates the highly-sought designer dog named the Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd (or Alaskan Shepherd for short). Although unclear of the specific date, it’s believed the Alaskan Shepherd originated around the early 1900s.
The Alaskan Shepherd is a large-sized dog that inherits many of its traits from his parents. He’s a smart, loyal, and friendly pooch that can serve sufficient to be both a family dog or watchdog- depending on his upbringing.
It’ll be helpful to consider before buying an Alaskan Shepherd, whether you can provide a fitting upbringing for them to thrive as a healthy pooch. Continue reading to find out more about this incredible mixed-breed, the Alaskan Shepherd.
- Physical Characteristics (Size and Physical Look)
- Lifespan
- Grooming Needs
- Temperament
- Exercise Needs
- Health Risks
- Feeding
- Are Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd Mixes Protective?
- How Much Does an Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd Mix Cost?
- Is an Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd Mix Right for Me?
- Best Climate for an Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd Mix
- The Attention an Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd Mix Needs
- Compatibility with Kids
- Compatibility with Other Animals
Physical Characteristics (Size and Physical Look)
Size | Alaskan Shepherd
The average size of an Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd mix is 20 – 25 inches in height and 65 – 130 lbs in weight, depending on age and gender.
Physical Appearance | Alaskan Shepherd
Ears
An Alaskan Shepherd’s ears are commonly triangular-shaped, perky, and pointy. The color of the ears resembles the color of their coat.
Coat
When it comes to the coat on an Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd mix- we’re talking thick, heavy, and dense!
Although they shed mildly, expect to have a large pile of fur to collect twice a year- when the shedding process begins.
As for color, an Alaskan Shepherds coat varies between shades of browns, burgundy, greys, and goldens.
Facial Appearance
His eyes are almond-shaped, and the color of the eyes are usually dark brown or hazel.
He also has a defined muzzle, whilst his nose remains black.
Tail
The tail on an Alaskan Shepherd is long and furry– and the color of his tail is subject to the color of his coat.
Body
The Alaskan Shepherd is a large-sized dog that matches the strength and vitality inherited from the parents.
Lifespan
The average lifespan of an Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd mix is 10 – 13 years. Depending on the Alaskan Shepherd’s health, they may have the potential to live up to 15 years.
Grooming Needs
When it comes to grooming needs, the Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd mix requires ongoing brushing of not only their pearly whites- but their coat too.
The Alaskan Shepherd sheds heavily twice a year, indicating the importance of maintaining an adequate grooming routine, which will prevent piles of fur balls from invading your furniture.
As recommended, brushing your Alaskan Shepherds coat once a week will keep it healthy and furball free.
In addition to their grooming needs, you may also consider helpful:
- Brushing their teeth
- Clipping the nails
- Cleaning the ears (to prevent moisture)
- Bathing every-so-often
Temperament
An Alaskan Shepherd’s temperament resembles the temperament of his parents. Generally, he is a loyal, curious, and intelligent dog that can be both a watchdog or a household pet.
When trained as a watchdog- expect your dog to be alert and watchful.
If trained for obedience and socialization- expect your dog to be friendly, obedient, devoted, and affectionate.
Overall, you do not need to worry about an Alaskan Shepherd’s temperament- as they’re a friendly and devoted mix-breed that rarely exerts anger or frustration.
If you’re looking for a large-sized pooch that demonstrates a willingness to an abundance of cuddles, look no further as an Alaskan Shepherd can do the job!
Exercise Needs
Exercise is a vital part of an Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd mixes life. To keep your pooch fit, healthy, and boredom free- be sure to follow a regular exercise routine.
Be sure to allow your Alaskan Shepherd to engage in exercise for a minimum of 20 – 40 minutes per day.
This can be by walking around the block, taking a run to the park and back, attending your local dog park, or simply playing a few games outside.
Health Risks
Thankfully an Alaskan Shepherd is considered to be a healthy mixed-breed, however, they are still at risk of common health issues found in dogs.
Here are common health risks your Alaskan Shepherd may become prone to:
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Osteochondritis
- Dog Obesity
- Skin Allergies
- Hypothyroidism
Although such risks are unlikely, they’re not improbable – and it’s important to have regular checks from a trusted Veterinarian.
Diagnoses and scans will be required if you’re concerned about specific risks, however, if it’ll ease your worry- it is recommended sooner than never.
Feeding
What to Eat?
Depending on the requirements necessary for your Alaskan Shepherd will determine what you should feed him.
For household dogs living inside (aka not requiring to live outside in the cold), should be on general healthy diets. Foods may include:
- Purina Pro Sport Dry Dog Food
- Ground Turkey with Quinoa
- Pedigree Adult Dry Dog Food
- Canidae Pure Real Chicken & Oatmeal Dry Dog Food
- Apples, Strawberries, or Grapes
- Cooked Shredded Chicken
Alaskan Shepherd’s living in the cold will be required to alter their general diet, in order to adapt their bodies to such conditions. Foods included in this diet include:
- Boiled Eggs
- Fatty Fish (Salmon, Tuna, Trout, etc)
- Nuts
- Full-Fat Yoghurt
- Beef and Pork
- Chicken
The main thing to remember when feeding an Alaskan Shepherd is to provide a nutritional, healthy, well-balanced diet that includes an adequate amount of carbs, protein, and meat.
When to Eat?
The time of day you choose to feed your pooch is entirely based on your lifestyle and current routine.
As long as you feed him once in the morning and once in the evening- at consistent times every day, there will be no issues coming from your pooch.
How Much to Eat?
For a puppy to adolescent Alaskan Shepherd, their feeding portion should at least be ½ cup every 3 – 4 times per day.
The smaller the portion size the more frequent food should be provided for growing Alaskan Shepherds.
As for adult or matured Alaskan Shepherds, their feeding portion should be 1 cup – 1.5 cups twice a day.
Are Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd Mixes Protective?
Yes, the Alaskan Shepherd (Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd mix) is a protective dog that is devoted and values his family.
Inherited from the German Shepherd, an Alaskan Shepherd doesn’t stray far from his parents. Possessing similar traits such as protectiveness, which may encourage him to serve as a watchdog.
If an owner fails to socialize his Alaskan Shepherd, the mixed-breed will become cautious of other humans and animals- specifically when his family is surrounded by strangers.
If trained properly and early enough, this protective trait can be monitored safely and won’t risk potential problems from occurring in the future.
How Much Does an Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd Mix Cost?
If located within The United States, the cost to purchase a single Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd mix varies between $800 – $1500 USD.
This particular mixed-breed is rare to find, thus it’s likely you’ll only be able to purchase this hybrid from a breeder (as opposed to a PetStore).
Other avenues where you may be able to find an Alaskan Shepherd for sale is through:
- Dog Shows
- Facebook Marketplace
- Dog Forums
- Your Local Animal Shelter
Is an Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd Mix Right for Me?
Before signing on the dotted line to get your hands on this mixed-breed, it’s important to consider whether an Alaskan Shepherd mix truly is the right dog for you.
Here are four questions to ask yourself prior:
- WIll my Alaskan Shepherd have enough space to explore/run around?
- Can I dedicate a minimum of 40 minutes per day for providing exercise?
- Do I understand this mixed-breeds potential health risks and will monitor it closely?
- Can I provide the love and attention this mix requires?
If you answered YES to the questions above, good news- an Alaskan Shepherd is the right dog for you.
So what are you waiting for? Start looking!
Best Climate for an Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd Mix
The best climate for an Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd mix is a cool climate.
In fact, the colder the better. This mixed-breed does not thrive in warm climates and should be considered by potential buyers more often.
When exposed to hot temperatures for too long, the Alaskan Shepherd becomes at risk of:
- Dehydration
- Cracked Skin, Paws, and Nose
- Heat Stroke
If an Alaskan Shepherd has no choice but to be exposed to the weather, they must have a sufficient amount of water supply and shade.
The heat from the sun soaks into an Alaskan Shepherd’s coat, leaving them to feel anxious and stressed if prolonged.
In general, Alaskan Shepherds thrive magnificently in cool climates and can even be left outside in the cold overnight (if provided an adequate dog-house).
The Attention an Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd Mix Needs
Before buying an Alaskan Malamute German Shepherd mix, it’s helpful to understand the attention this mixed-breed will require from you.
Alaskan Shepherd puppies require plenty of attention. And to deter bad habits early, you’ll be required to provide constant attention (emotionally and physically), in addition to possible training and socialization.
This can easily be done by:
- Constant positive reinforcement
- Encouragement
- Identifying Bad Behavior Early (And Rectifying)
- Using a Firm Tone
- NEVER using aggression, yelling, or physically harming your pooch
Adult Alaskan Shepherds are slightly less demanding in relation to attention, however, they’ll always appreciate affection and cuddles from his owner (regardless of age).
Be sure to prepare yourself in providing plenty of attention to your Alaskan Shepherd throughout the many years they’ll be by your side.
Compatibility with Kids
A socialized Alaskan Shepherd is incredibly compatible with kids of all ages.
This hybrid makes as fantastic family dogs, nominating himself to be the protectors of the family and providing needs when required.
For a puppy Alaskan Shepherd growing up with kids, they can become extremely attached and see kids as not only his best friend- but family too.
An adult Alaskan Shepherd can still be compatible with children, however, it must have been socialized prior. Otherwise, it can take a few weeks in getting them used to a young person’s presence.
Overall, Alaskan Shepherds are compatible with kids and should not be deemed as unsafe when considering them to be a family dog.
Compatibility with Other Animals
Much like the compatibility with kids, an Alaskan Shepherd’s compatibility with other animals is nearly identical.
If your puppy has grown with other household animals or has been exposed to other animals through parks, play dates, or groups- your Alaskan Shepherd will be compatible with other animals.
However, Adult Alaskan Shepherd’s are slightly more difficult- especially if they’ve had little to no socialization throughout their upbringing. Although this can be trained in an adult, the initial overall compatibility with other animals in an Alaskan Shepherd animals rests on socialization and exposure throughout their years.
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Mike is the Founder of Familylifeshare. Mike is well-knowledged in marriage, parenting, dogs, blogging and committed to sharing his knowledge and expertise with his readers. Know more about Mike from here.
