Alaskan Malamute vs Boston Terrier
Working · Large vs Non-Sporting · Small
Alaskan MalamuteLarge
An affectionate, loyal, playful arctic freight dog — bigger and stronger than the Husky, equally fluffy.
Weight: 85 lbsLifespan: 10–14 years
Boston TerrierSmall
A friendly, bright, amusing 'American Gentleman' in a tuxedo coat — born in Boston, the original AKC breed.
Weight: 12–25 lbsLifespan: 11–13 years
Quick take
- • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 12–25 lbs for the Boston Terrier.
- • The Alaskan Malamute has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Boston Terrier sheds less.
- • The Boston Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Alaskan Malamute | Boston Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Non-Sporting |
Size | Large | Small |
Origin | USA | USA |
Height (male) | 25" | 15–17" |
Height (female) | 23" | 15–17" |
Weight (male) | 85 lbs | 12–25 lbs |
Weight (female) | 75 lbs | 12–25 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 11–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very High (5/5) | Low (2/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
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) | Very High (5/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | long | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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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 Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a friendly, bright, amusing 'American Gentleman' in a tuxedo coat — born in Boston, the original AKC breed. Originally from USA, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–25 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, bright, amusing.
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Alaskan Malamute health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Hypothyroidism
- • Bloat
Boston Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Patellar luxation
- • Allergies