The Alaskan Malamute was originally a working dog from cold regions and was used for sled pulling, guarding the home, and similar tasks. Because of its cute appearance and likable temperament, it has now also become a popular family breed. But because an Alaskan Malamute is such a large dog, illness can be especially troublesome to handle, so it is best for owners to understand some of the common health problems of the breed.
What diseases are Alaskan Malamutes prone to?
During puppyhood, Alaskan Malamutes are vulnerable to viral infections such as canine distemper and parvovirus. These two diseases are extremely dangerous for all dogs. However, once the dog has completed vaccination, the chance of catching such diseases becomes much lower. After reaching adulthood, Alaskan Malamutes are more likely to develop gastrointestinal problems and skin diseases, so owners need to pay close attention to diet and skin care.
Common diseases in Alaskan Malamutes
The issues mentioned above are common illnesses seen in many dogs, but Alaskan Malamutes also have some breed-related problems worth noting. One important example is gastric torsion, a common disorder in large breeds. This happens when gas accumulates in the stomach to the point that the stomach twists on itself, blocking both the entrance and exit of the stomach. The dog then suffers severe stomach swelling and torsion, and the mortality rate is high. Preventing gastric torsion requires controlling both food intake and water intake and avoiding heavy exercise before and after meals.
As a breed originally from snowy cold regions, the Alaskan Malamute also has relatively delicate eyes. The long-term snow-bright environment of its ancestral habitat is thought to be one reason. As a result, Alaskan Malamutes are prone to eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, and night blindness. Other sled breeds like the Husky and Samoyed also commonly suffer from eye disease. To protect an Alaskan’s eyes, avoid walking the dog under strong midday sunlight, observe the eyes frequently for any signs of disease, and seek veterinary treatment as soon as symptoms appear.