Alaskan Malamute vs Chow Chow

Working · Large vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 45–70 lbs for the Chow Chow.
  • The Alaskan Malamute typically lives longer (10–14 years).
  • The Alaskan Malamute has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Chow Chow sheds less.
  • The Alaskan Malamute is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAlaskan MalamuteChow Chow
Group
WorkingNon-Sporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
USAChina
Height (male)
25"17–20"
Height (female)
23"17–20"
Weight (male)
85 lbs45–70 lbs
Weight (female)
75 lbs45–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years8–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longlong
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 Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is a dignified, bright, serious-minded ancient Chinese breed with a famous purple-blue tongue. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–70 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as dignified, bright, serious-minded.

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Alaskan Malamute health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Chow Chow health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Skin issues
  • Bloat