Alaskan Malamute vs. Whippet: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Alaskan Malamute or Whippet?

3 / 5

Alaskan Malamute has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

1 / 5

Whippet has low obesity risk, but needs exercise and food monitoring for optimal health.

Hypoallergenic

Are Alaskan Malamutes or Whippets hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Alaskan Malamute nor Whippet are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Alaskan Malamute and Whippet dogs?

Affectionate
Dignified
Loyal
Devoted
Friendly
Playful

Affectionate
Gentle
Lively
Friendly
Intelligent
Quiet
Outright
Adaptable
Companionable

Shedding Level

Do Alaskan Malamutes shed more than Whippets, or which breed sheds more, Alaskan Malamutes or Whippets?

5 / 5

Alaskan Malamutes shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

2 / 5

Whippets are low shedding dogs, requiring minimal coat care.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Alaskan Malamute or Whippet?

5 / 5

Choose an Alaskan Malamute if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

3 / 5

Whippets are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Origin

What is the origin of Alaskan Malamute and Whippet dog breeds?

Alaska

England

Ancestry

What are the origins of Alaskan Malamute and Whippet breeds?

Spitz

terrier, greyhound, spaniel

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Alaskan Malamute and Whippet?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

Date of Birth

When were Alaskan Malamute and Whippet breeds first developed?

Ancient Times

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Alaskan Malamute and Whippet?

Working (AKC:1935)
Northern Breeds (UKC)

Hound (AKC:1888)
Sighthound & Pariah (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Alaskan Malamute and Whippet dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Alaskan Malamute and Whippet?

Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Alaskan Malamute and Whippet breeds?

White
Sable
Silver
Blue
Red
Brown
Gray
Black

Black
Blue
White
Fawn
Red
Brindle

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Alaskan Malamute and Whippet breeds?

2 / 5

The coat of Alaskan Malamute and Whippet dogs ranges in length from short to medium.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Alaskan Malamute and Whippet?

5 / 5

2 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Alaskan Malamute and Whippet?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Alaskan Malamute and Whippet?

Alaskan Malamute and Whippet, can have a litter of 12-15 puppies each on average. Nonetheless, it's important to keep in mind that litter size can differ significantly between individual dogs. Various factors such as the mother's health, breeding history, and genetics can have an impact on litter size.

Adaptability

3 / 5

Alaskan Malamutes have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

5 / 5

Whippets are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Alaskan Malamute and Whippet, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

Alaskan Malamute and Whippet breeds are generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Alaskan Malamute and Whippet breeds?

Canine Hip Dysplasia
Chondrodysplasia (Chd)

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Von Willebrand's Disease
Anesthesia Sensitivity/Allergy
Corneal Dystrophy

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Alaskan Malamute and Whippet?

Cataracts
Glaucoma
Skin Problems
Diabetes

Cataracts
Lens Luxation

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Alaskan Malamute and Whippet breeds?

Eye
Hip
Blood
Chd Clear Rating

Blood Test
Dna For Vwd
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Alaskan Malamutes and Whippets compare?

5 / 5

Alaskan Malamute and Whippet breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

Alaskan Malamute vs Whippet social needs comparison

4 / 5

Alaskan Malamute has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

3 / 5

Whippet has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Exercise Needed

Alaskan Malamute vs Whippet exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

Alaskan Malamutes require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

3 / 5

Whippets need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Alaskan Malamute or Whippet?

1 / 5

Alaskan Malamute and Whippet are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Alaskan Malamute or Whippet?

1 / 5

The Alaskan Malamute and Whippet breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Alaskan Malamutes or Whippets bark more/less frequently?

2 / 5

Alaskan Malamute dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

1 / 5

Whippets are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

Territorial

Is the Alaskan Malamute or Whippet a better guard dog?

5 / 5

Alaskan Malamute dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

1 / 5

Whippet dogs are not typically good guard dogs due to their lack of protective nature and weak territorial drive.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Alaskan Malamute vs Whippet?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Alaskan Malamute vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Prey Drive

Alaskan Malamute or Whippet - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Alaskan Malamute and Whippet entertained?

Jogging, Trotting, Sniffing, Exploring, Tug-of-war, Walking, Walk, Running, Run, Fetch, Runing, Doing tricks, Play, Snow, Hiking, Walks, Howling, Chasing things, Socialization, Bikejoring, Rollerjoring, Dog Parks, Hikes, Eating Snacks, Winter walks, Sleep, Hike, Tracking, High Five, Herding

Run, Nap, Hunt, Fetch, Nose work, Eating Snacks, Dog Parks, Walks, Playdate, Tug-of-war, Toys

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Alaskan Malamutes or Whippets?

Alaskan Malamutes are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Whippets are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

2 / 5

3 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Alaskan Malamute or Whippet walk each week?

Alaskan Malamute and Whippet generally need a minimum of 10 miles of walking per week, but it can be increased as long as they are comfortable with it.

Activity per Day

Do Alaskan Malamutes or Whippets require more exercise?

In general most Alaskan Malamutes usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Whippets usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Alaskan Malamutes or Whippets?

3 / 5

The Alaskan Malamute requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

1 / 5

The Whippet is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Alaskan Malamute and Whippet dogs?

Alaskan Malamute should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

In general Whippet should be brushed at least once a month. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes, especially if they enjoyed it

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Alaskan Malamutes and Whippets?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Alaskan Malamute or Whippet in cups?

For an average 80-100 pound (36 - 45 kg) Alaskan Malamute feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 25-40 pound (11 - 18 kg) Whippet feed 2.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Alaskan Malamute or Whippet?

The average cost of an Alaskan Malamute is somewhere $2.80 - $3.20 per day.

The average cost of a Whippet is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Alaskan Malamute or Whippet?

The average per month expenses of an Alaskan Malamute is between $84 - $95. This makes an average of $1008 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Whippet is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Alaskan Malamutes vs Whippets

3 / 5

Alaskan Malamute and Whippet have average obedience intelligence, but they're also independent thinkers. This breed is known for having an exceptionally high IQ, which means they may get into trouble if left to their own devices.

Sensitivity Level

How do Alaskan Malamute and Whippet compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Alaskan Malamute vs Whippet?

3 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Alaskan Malamute or Whippet?

1 / 5

The Alaskan Malamute is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

5 / 5

Whippets make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Alaskan Malamutes or Whippets have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Alaskan Malamute and Whippet are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Alaskan Malamute or Whippet?

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Alaskan Malamute or Whippet breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

1 / 5

Alaskan Malamutes and Whippets are not cat friendly dogs.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Alaskan Malamute or Whippet?

5 / 5

Alaskan Malamutes are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

3 / 5

Whippets are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Alaskan Malamute or Whippet dogs interact with other pets?

1 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Alaskan Malamute or Whippet?

4 / 5

Alaskan Malamutes are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

3 / 5

Whippets are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Alaskan Malamute and Whippet?

4 / 5

Alaskan Malamutes are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

3 / 5

Whippets have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Alaskan Malamutes and Whippets compare?

4 / 5

Alaskan Malamute and Whippet dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.