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Alaskan Malamute vs Sheltie Pug Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Mal or Sheltie Pug?

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

Other names

Mal, Mally

Weight

What is the average weight of Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug?
87.5 pounds ( 40 kg )
25.0 pounds ( 11 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug
25.0 inches ( 63.5 cm )
16.0 inches ( 40.6 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Alaskan Malamutes or Sheltie Pugs hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, neither Alaskan Malamute nor Sheltie Pug 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 Sheltie Pug dogs?
Affectionate
Dignified
Loyal
Devoted
Friendly
Playful

Playful
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Responsive
Affectionate
Loyal
Lively
Gentle
Going
Cheerful

Shedding Level

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

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

Sheltie Pugs are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Watchdog Ability

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

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.

Sheltie Pugs aren't great guard dogs; they tend to just watch without taking action.

Origin

What is the origin of Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug dog breeds?
Alaska

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug breeds?
Spitz

Pug and Shetland Sheepdog

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug?
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

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug breeds first developed?
Ancient Times

2000s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug dogs?
Brown

Blue
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug?
Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

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

Black
Brown
Red
Cream
Fawn
White
Pied
Sable
Brindle

Coat Length

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

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

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug?
Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug?

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.

4-6 puppies per pregnancy

A Sheltie Pug can have a litter of 4-6 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 Malamutes have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

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

Health Issues

Between Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug, 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.

Sheltie Pugs 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 Sheltie Pug breeds?
Canine Hip Dysplasia
Chondrodysplasia (Chd)

Von Willebrand's Disease
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Necrotizing Meningoencephalitis
Patent Ductus Arteriosis (PDA)

Minor Concerns

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

Entropion
Dermatomyositis
Skin Fold Dermatitis
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye)

Occasional Tests

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

Eye Examination
Respiratory Tests
Skin Evaluation
Blood And Urine Analysis
Diagnostic Imaging
Cardiac Test
DNA

Energy

How do the energy levels of Alaskan Malamutes and Sheltie Pugs compare?

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

Sheltie Pugs are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.

Social Needs

Alaskan Malamute vs Sheltie Pug social needs comparison

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

Sheltie Pug has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

Alaskan Malamute vs Sheltie Pug exercise need comparison.

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

Sheltie Pugs 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 Sheltie Pug?

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

Sheltie Pugs have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Tendency to Bark

Do Alaskan Malamutes or Sheltie Pugs 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.

Sheltie Pugs bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Alaskan Malamute vs Sheltie Pug?

Roaming urge

Alaskan Malamute vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug 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

Play with Toys, Fetch, Cuddle, Run

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Alaskan Malamutes or Sheltie Pugs?

High

Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug are high-energy dogs that require a lot of mental and physical exercise. Without proper stimulation and attention, these breeds can become problematic. If you're considering these breeds, be prepared to invest time and effort in their exercise and training.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Alaskan Malamute or Sheltie Pug 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.

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Sheltie Pug, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Alaskan Malamutes or Sheltie Pugs 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.

60 minutes

In general most Sheltie Pugs 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 Sheltie Pugs?

Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

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

Weekly

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

Daily

Ideally, Sheltie Pug should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

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

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Alaskan Malamute or Sheltie Pug 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.

1.5 cups

For an average 20-30 pound (9 - 14 kg) Sheltie Pug feed 1.5 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 Sheltie Pug?

$2.80 - $3.20 / day

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

$1.70 - $2.20 / day

The average cost of a Sheltie Pug is somewhere $1.70 - $2.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

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

$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.

$34 - $67 / month

The average per month expenses of a Sheltie Pug is between $34 - $67. This makes an average of $408 - $804 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 Sheltie Pugs

Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug 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 Sheltie Pug compare in sensitivity?

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug 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 Sheltie Pug?

Apartment Friendly

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

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.

The Sheltie Pug is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do Alaskan Malamutes or Sheltie Pugs have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug 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 Sheltie Pug?

Cat Friendly

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

Alaskan Malamutes are not cat friendly.

Sheltie Pugs are very friendly with cats and make great companions for them.

Dog Friendly

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

Alaskan Malamutes and Sheltie Pugs are very friendly towards other dogs. This breed typically have a happy and affectionate temperament around dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Alaskan Malamute or Sheltie Pug dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

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

Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug are friendly dogs and typically won't bark at strangers. However, if you wish to change this behavior, training them is easy thanks to their intelligence, making it pretty simple to teach them anything.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Alaskan Malamute and Sheltie Pug?

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

Sheltie Pugs 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 Sheltie Pugs compare?

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

Sheltie Pugs are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Common match-ups