Alaskan Malamute vs Havanese

Working · Large vs Toy · Small

Quick take
  • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 7–13 lbs for the Havanese.
  • The Havanese typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Alaskan Malamute has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Havanese sheds less.
  • The Havanese is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAlaskan MalamuteHavanese
Group
WorkingToy
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
USACuba
Height (male)
25"8.5–11.5"
Height (female)
23"8.5–11.5"
Weight (male)
85 lbs7–13 lbs
Weight (female)
75 lbs7–13 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years14–16 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)Very Low (1/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Havanese

The Havanese is an intelligent, outgoing, funny lapdog — Cuba's national dog with a silky, hypoallergenic coat. Originally from Cuba, this small toy breed typically weighs 7–13 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as intelligent, outgoing, funny.

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Alaskan Malamute health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Havanese health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Heart problems