Alaskan Malamute vs Keeshond

Working · Large vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 35–45 lbs for the Keeshond.
  • The Keeshond typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Keeshond is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAlaskan MalamuteKeeshond
Group
WorkingNon-Sporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
USANetherlands
Height (male)
25"18"
Height (female)
23"17"
Weight (male)
85 lbs35–45 lbs
Weight (female)
75 lbs35–45 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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 High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
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 Keeshond

The Keeshond is a friendly, lively, outgoing Dutch barge dog — Holland's national dog with a fluffy 'spectacles' face. Originally from Netherlands, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, lively, outgoing.

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Alaskan Malamute health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Keeshond health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart issues
  • Epilepsy