Alaskan Malamute vs Miniature Poodle

Working · Large vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 10–15 lbs for the Miniature Poodle.
  • The Miniature Poodle typically lives longer (10–18 years).
  • The Miniature Poodle sheds less.
  • The Miniature Poodle is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAlaskan MalamuteMiniature Poodle
Group
WorkingNon-Sporting
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
USAGermany
Height (male)
25"11–15"
Height (female)
23"11–15"
Weight (male)
85 lbs10–15 lbs
Weight (female)
75 lbs10–15 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years10–18 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)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)Very High (5/5)
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)High (4/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
Ad slot · compare-mid

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 Miniature Poodle

The Miniature Poodle is an active, proud, very smart smaller version of the Standard Poodle — circus star of yesteryear. Originally from Germany, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 10–15 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, proud, very smart.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Alaskan Malamute health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Miniature Poodle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Epilepsy
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes