Alaskan Malamute vs Poodle (Standard)

Working · Large vs Non-Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 60–70 lbs for the Poodle (Standard).
  • The Poodle (Standard) typically lives longer (10–18 years).
  • The Poodle (Standard) sheds less.
  • The Poodle (Standard) is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAlaskan MalamutePoodle (Standard)
Group
WorkingNon-Sporting
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
USAGermany
Height (male)
25"18–24"
Height (female)
23"18–24"
Weight (male)
85 lbs60–70 lbs
Weight (female)
75 lbs40–50 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)High (4/5)
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)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.
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 Poodle (Standard)

The Poodle (Standard) is an elegant, athletic, and exceptionally intelligent water dog — far more than its show-ring image suggests. Originally from Germany, this large non-sporting breed typically weighs 60–70 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, proud, very smart.

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Alaskan Malamute health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Poodle (Standard) health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Addison's disease
  • Eye disorders