Leonberger vs. Alaskan Malamute: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Leonberger or Alaskan Malamute?

4 / 5

Leonberger has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

3 / 5

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

Hypoallergenic

Are Leonbergers or Alaskan Malamutes hypoallergenic, or neither?

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

Temperament

What are the personalities of Leonberger and Alaskan Malamute dogs?

Adaptable
Fearless
Loyal
Companionable
Loving
Obedient

Affectionate
Dignified
Loyal
Devoted
Friendly
Playful

Shedding Level

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

5 / 5

Leonberger or Alaskan Malamute dogs are extremely heavy shedders, they will lose a large amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Leonberger or Alaskan Malamute.

Watchdog Ability

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

5 / 5

The Leonberger and Alaskan Malamute dogs are some of the best choices if you want good watchdogs. These breeds will keep watch over you and your family at all times. They take this task seriously and will typically perform their guarding duty with little to no training. These dogs will require obedience training, or you can consider guard dog training to sharpen their skills.

Origin

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

Germany

Alaska

Ancestry

What are the origins of Leonberger and Alaskan Malamute breeds?

newfoundland, long haired saint bernard, pyrenean mountain dog

Spitz

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Leonberger and Alaskan Malamute?

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

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

Date of Birth

When were Leonberger and Alaskan Malamute breeds first developed?

1800s

Ancient Times

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Leonberger and Alaskan Malamute?

Working (AKC:2010)
Guardian Dogs (UKC)

Working (AKC:1935)
Northern Breeds (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

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

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

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

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

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

Black
Gray
Brown
Red
Cream
Sable
Brindle

White
Sable
Silver
Blue
Red
Brown
Gray
Black

Coat Length

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

3 / 5

Leonbergers have medium-length coats.

2 / 5

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

Coat Density

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

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Leonberger and Alaskan Malamute?

Straight

Litter Size

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

A Leonberger can have a litter of 8-10 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.

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.

Adaptability

3 / 5

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

2 / 5

Leonbergers are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

3 / 5

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

Major Concerns

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

Hip Dysplasia
Eye Problems

Canine Hip Dysplasia
Chondrodysplasia (Chd)

Minor Concerns

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

Laryngeal Paralysis
Inherited Leonberger Polyneuropathy

Cataracts
Glaucoma
Skin Problems
Diabetes

Occasional Tests

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

Hip X-Rays
Eyes
Hips
Skeletal
Physical Examination
Throat

Eye
Hip
Blood
Chd Clear Rating

Energy

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

4 / 5

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

5 / 5

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

Social Needs

Leonberger vs Alaskan Malamute social needs comparison

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

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

Exercise Needed

Leonberger vs Alaskan Malamute exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

The Leonberger and Alaskan Malamute breeds need significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

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

2 / 5

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

1 / 5

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

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Leonberger or Alaskan Malamute?

3 / 5

Leonberger is an average drooler, monitor for excessive drooling which may indicate health issues.

1 / 5

Alaskan Malamute minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Leonbergers or Alaskan Malamutes bark more/less frequently?

1 / 5

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

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.

Territorial

Is the Leonberger or Alaskan Malamute a better guard dog?

5 / 5

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: Leonberger vs Alaskan Malamute?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Leonberger vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

2 / 5

5 / 5

Prey Drive

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

4 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Leonbergers or Alaskan Malamutes?

Leonbergers 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.

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.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

2 / 5

Walks per Week

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

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Leonberger, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

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.

Activity per Day

Do Leonbergers or Alaskan Malamutes require more exercise?

In general most Leonbergers 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.

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.

Grooming

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

3 / 5

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

Brushing Frequency

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

Leonberger and 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.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Leonbergers and Alaskan Malamutes?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

For an average 120-170 pound (54 - 77 kg) Leonberger feed 4.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

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.

Daily Cost

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

The average cost of a Leonberger is somewhere $4.20 - $4.90 per day.

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

Monthly Cost

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

The average per month expenses of a Leonberger is between $126 - $147. This makes an average of $1512 - $1764 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 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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Leonbergers vs Alaskan Malamutes

3 / 5

Leonberger and Alaskan Malamute 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 Leonberger and Alaskan Malamute compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

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

Affection Dependance

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

5 / 5

3 / 5

Apartment Friendly

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

1 / 5

Leonberger and Alaskan Malamute are not apartment-friendly dog breeds. These dog breeds are best in homes with large, fenced-in yards. They are not suited for apartment life and can become destructive due to pent up energy from being in a small space.

Child Friendly

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

5 / 5

Leonbergers make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

4 / 5

Alaskan Malamutes are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

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

5 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

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

3 / 5

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

1 / 5

Alaskan Malamutes are not cat friendly.

Dog Friendly

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

4 / 5

Leonbergers are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

5 / 5

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

Pet friendly

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

3 / 5

1 / 5

Stranger Friendly

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

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

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

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Leonberger and Alaskan Malamute?

4 / 5

Leonberger and Alaskan Malamute are playful dogs. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for Leonberger and Alaskan Malamute is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.

Trainability

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

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

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