Alaskan Malamute vs Irish Wolfhound

Working · Large vs Hound · Giant

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 85 lbs for the Alaskan Malamute.
  • The Alaskan Malamute typically lives longer (10–14 years).
  • The Alaskan Malamute has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Irish Wolfhound sheds less.
  • The Irish Wolfhound is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAlaskan MalamuteIrish Wolfhound
Group
WorkingHound
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
USAIreland
Height (male)
25"32–34"
Height (female)
23"30–32"
Weight (male)
85 lbs120 lbs
Weight (female)
75 lbs105 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years6–8 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)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
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 Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is a courageous, dignified, calm gentle giant — the tallest of all dogs, ancient Celtic war and hunting hound. Originally from Ireland, this giant hound breed typically weighs 120 lbs and lives 6–8 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, calm.

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Alaskan Malamute health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia