60-75 lbs
22-24"
North America
The Alaskan Goldenmute is a descendant of two great dog breeds: the Alaskan Malamute and Labrador Retriever and is likely to have originated in the mid 1800s when both parents first became popular in North America. This hybrid mix is not for laisse faire dog owners; it requires a lot of attention, exercise, and coat maintenance. Though great family companions, Alaskan Goldenmutes are uncommon in most parts of the world and not recognized by the American Kennel Club roster of purebred dogs. Nonetheless, this breed amazes dog lovers with its vivacious energy, affectionate disposition, and incredible sense of adventure.
The Alaskan Malamute and Golden Retriever were bred to create the Alaskan Goldenmute hybrid. The Alaskan Malamute, a descendant of the first dogs associated with mankind, originated over 4,000 years ago. It was named after its early “owners”, the Mahlemuts Innuit tribe of present day Northwest Alaska. This breed was used for hunting large animals, such as seals and bears, and pulling sleds for tribe’s people. In the 1800s, explorers from other parts of North American realized that Alaskan Malamutes would be great working dogs in the wild west of the United States. These explorers started to important the breed to help with Gold Rush expeditions during that time. Eventually, American breeders started mixing the breed with smaller dogs for racing and entertainment purposes, weakening the purebred lineage. In the 1920s, however, there was an effort to revive the fading breed and the purebred population bounced back. In 1935, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Alaskan Malamute and in 2003 it became the official state dog of Alaska. The Alaskan Goldenmute’s other parent, the Golden Retriever, originated in Victorian England and was developed for hunting and – appropriately – retrieving game and waterfowl. It rose to prominence for because of its adept sporting skills and overwhelmingly affable disposition. English families began to take notice and keep Golden Retrievers as pets. Eventually, Golden Retrievers made their way over to North America and the AKC recognized the breed shortly after in 1932. Since then, the breed has become one of the most popular breeds in the United States and featured in mainstream Hollywood in movies such as Homeward Bound, Air Bud, and Marly and Me. Alaskan Goldenmutes may have been breed since the mid 1900s when both parent breeds had growing populations in the United States. However, because the Alaskan Malamute is not a common breed, this hybrid is relatively unusual and not recognized by the AKC.
The Alaskan Goldenmute is not fully stabilized in
appearance so it can inherit any combination of physical traits from its parent
breeds. Normally, however, Alaskan Goldenmutes look like Alaskan Malamutes with
Golden coats and facial characteristics. The breed is powerful and athletic
with a medium-length and lustrous double coat which comes in many color
combinations that are common to both parent breeds. Some Alaskan Goldenmutes
even have faint black markings around the face and muzzle, like its Malamute
parent. Its tail is relatively long and feathered, while its almond shaped eyes
can be blue, hazel, or brown. The breed’s ears are a true compromise between
its two parent breeds – being half pricked and slightly pointed. Finally, the
Alaskan Goldenmute has large, heavily padded paws, made perfectly for tramping
around outdoors.
Alaskan Goldenmutes are not a hypoallergenic breed and
not suitable for pet owners with allergies. They have dense and medium-length coats
that sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes. Owners can use a
variety of tools to control shedding including a pin or slicker brush,
dematter, and/or comb. Daily brushing will help owners keep their Alaskan
Malamute’s coat clean and neat. Because they have such ample natural jackets,
some owners trim their Alaskan Goldenmutes, while other opt for professional
grooming. Alaskan Goldenmutes should also be bathed occasionally have their
ears cleaned regularly, teeth brushed daily to avoid dental problems, and nails
clipped once or twice a month.
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Alaskan Goldenmutes are delightful and rustic animals
that are very attached to humans. They also love other animals and do very well
in multi-pet homes. They are a great fit with active owners that enjoy outdoor
adventure. Because Goldenmutes are so people-oriented, they are prone to
separation anxiety and do best with a consistent schedule and constant
companionship. When Goldenmutes are young, they can be hyper-active, especially
if they don’t receive enough exercise or attention; however, if owners
administer firm and consistent training from an early age, this breed can be
extremely well-trained as an adult. Beyond this, Alaskan Goldenmutes are very
sensitive animals that respond acutely to positive (and negative) affirmation. All
in all, this pup needs a lot of love and exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Alaskan Goldenmutes are very high energy, especially
when they are under three years of age. This hybrid is known for its playfulness
and love for vigorous exercise. They love to play games with humans, such as
fetch, as well as with other dogs. Beyond this, the Alaskan Goldenmute enjoys adventure
and will eagerly go on a long hike or run with their owners. Overall, this
breed needs at least an hour of activity a day. Alaskan Goldenmutes can also be
entertained by learning tricks and commands. They prefer homes with access to large
outdoor spaces, but will do well in any type of climate.
Written by Krista Bochicchio
Published: 11/03/2017, edited: 01/21/2022
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