Alaskan Malamute vs Border Terrier
Working · Large vs Terrier · Small
Alaskan MalamuteLarge
An affectionate, loyal, playful arctic freight dog — bigger and stronger than the Husky, equally fluffy.
Weight: 85 lbsLifespan: 10–14 years
Border TerrierSmall
An affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border.
Weight: 13–15.5 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 13–15.5 lbs for the Border Terrier.
- • The Border Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Border Terrier sheds less.
- • The Border Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Alaskan Malamute | Border Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Terrier |
Size | Large | Small |
Origin | USA | England |
Height (male) | 25" | 13–15" |
Height (female) | 23" | 13–15" |
Weight (male) | 85 lbs | 13–15.5 lbs |
Weight (female) | 75 lbs | 11.5–14 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very High (5/5) | Low (2/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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About the Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is an affectionate, loyal, playful arctic freight dog — bigger and stronger than the Husky, equally fluffy. Originally from USA, this large working breed typically weighs 85 lbs and lives 10–14 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, loyal, playful.
About the Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.
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Alaskan Malamute health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Hypothyroidism
- • Bloat
Border Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Heart problems