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Alaskan Malamute vs Scottish Terrier Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Mal or Scottie?

Compare the Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Mal or a Scottie? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Mal, Mally
Scottie, Aberdeenie

Weight

What is the average weight of Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier?
87.5 pounds ( 40 kg )
20.5 pounds ( 9 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier
25.0 inches ( 63.5 cm )
10.5 inches ( 26.7 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Alaskan Malamute or Scottish Terrier?

The Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier breeds have an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.

Hypoallergenic

Are Alaskan Malamutes or Scottish Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, the Alaskan Malamute is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Scottish Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier dogs?
Affectionate
Dignified
Loyal
Devoted
Friendly
Playful

Independent
Alert
Quick
Playful
Selfish

Shedding Level

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

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

Scottish Terriers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

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

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.

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

Origin

What is the origin of Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier dog breeds?
Alaska

Scotland

Ancestry

What are the origins of Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier breeds?
Spitz

skye, cairn, west highland white terriers

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier?
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
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.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry
Club Espanol De Terriers

Date of Birth

When were Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier breeds first developed?
Ancient Times

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier?
Working (AKC:1935)
Northern Breeds (UKC)

Terrier (AKC:1885 & UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier?
Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier breeds?
White
Sable
Silver
Blue
Red
Brown
Gray
Black

Black
Brindle

Coat Length

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

Alaskan Malamutes have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Scottish Terriers have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier?
Straight

Wiry

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier?

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

An Alaskan Malamute can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

11-13 puppies per pregnancy

A Scottish Terrier can have a litter of 11-13 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier dogs generally have an average level of adaptability when it comes to adjusting to changes in lifestyle and different living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

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

While the Alaskan Malamute breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Scottish Terriers typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier breeds?
Canine Hip Dysplasia
Chondrodysplasia (Chd)

Von Willebrand's Disease
Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier?
Cataracts
Glaucoma
Skin Problems
Diabetes

Scottie Cramp
Intervertebral Disc Disease

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier breeds?
Eye
Hip
Blood
Chd Clear Rating

Dna For Vwd
X-Rays
MRI
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Alaskan Malamutes and Scottish Terriers compare?

Alaskan Malamutes thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Scottish Terriers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Alaskan Malamute vs Scottish Terrier social needs comparison

Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier have above average social needs compared to other breeds. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Alaskan Malamute vs Scottish Terrier exercise need comparison.

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

Scottish Terriers 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 Scottish Terrier?

Alaskan Malamutes are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Scottish Terriers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Alaskan Malamute or Scottish Terrier?

The Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier 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 Scottish Terriers bark more/less frequently?

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

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

Territorial

Is the Alaskan Malamute or Scottish Terrier a better guard dog?

These breeds are known for being extremely protective and make excellent guard dogs. They possess a strong instinct to defend their territory and owners and have a high level of vigilance and alertness.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Alaskan Malamute vs Scottish Terrier?

Roaming urge

Alaskan Malamute vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier 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

Fetch

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Alaskan Malamutes or Scottish Terriers?

High

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.

Medium

Scottish Terriers 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

Walks per Week

How many miles should Alaskan Malamute or Scottish Terrier walk each week?

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Alaskan Malamute, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

6 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Scottish Terrier, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Alaskan Malamutes or Scottish Terriers require more exercise?

90 minutes

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.

30 minutes

In general most Scottish Terriers usually need at least 30 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 Scottish Terriers?

Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

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

Weekly

Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier 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.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Alaskan Malamutes and Scottish Terriers?
Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

3 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.

0.8 cups

For an average 19-22 pound (9 - 10 kg) Scottish Terrier feed 0.8 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 Scottish Terrier?

$2.80 - $3.20 / day

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

$1.20 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Scottish Terrier is somewhere $1.20 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

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

$84 - $95 / month

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.

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Scottish Terrier is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 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 Scottish Terriers

Alaskan Malamutes are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Scottish Terrier has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier compare in sensitivity?

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

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

Apartment Friendly

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

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.

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

Child Friendly

Do Alaskan Malamutes or Scottish Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier 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 Scottish Terrier?

Cat Friendly

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

Alaskan Malamutes are not cat friendly.

Scottish Terriers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

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

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

Scottish Terriers are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do Alaskan Malamute or Scottish Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

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

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

Scottish Terriers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Alaskan Malamute and Scottish Terrier?

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

Scottish Terriers 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 Scottish Terriers compare?

Alaskan Malamutes are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

Scottish Terriers are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Common match-ups