Alaskan Malamute vs Collie (Rough)

Working · Large vs Herding · Large

Quick take
  • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 60–75 lbs for the Collie (Rough).
  • The Collie (Rough) typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Collie (Rough) sheds less.
  • The Collie (Rough) is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAlaskan MalamuteCollie (Rough)
Group
WorkingHerding
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
USAScotland
Height (male)
25"24–26"
Height (female)
23"22–24"
Weight (male)
85 lbs60–75 lbs
Weight (female)
75 lbs50–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
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)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
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 Collie (Rough)

The Collie (Rough) is a devoted, graceful, proud Scottish herder — Lassie, the world's most famous fictional dog. Originally from Scotland, this large herding breed typically weighs 60–75 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as devoted, graceful, proud.

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Alaskan Malamute health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Collie (Rough) health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Collie eye anomaly
  • MDR1 gene mutation
  • Hip dysplasia