Alaskan Malamute vs Chihuahua

Working · Large vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 6 lbs for the Chihuahua.
  • The Chihuahua typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Chihuahua sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAlaskan MalamuteChihuahua
Group
WorkingToy
Size
LargeToy
Origin
USAMexico
Height (male)
25"5–8"
Height (female)
23"5–8"
Weight (male)
85 lbs6 lbs
Weight (female)
75 lbs6 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years14–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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 Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a graceful, charming, sassy tiny dog of Mexican origin — the world's smallest breed, big in personality. Originally from Mexico, this toy toy breed typically weighs 6 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, charming, sassy.

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Alaskan Malamute health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Chihuahua health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Heart disease
  • Dental issues