Alaskan Malamute vs Schipperke

Working · Large vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 10–16 lbs for the Schipperke.
  • The Schipperke typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Schipperke sheds less.
  • The Schipperke is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAlaskan MalamuteSchipperke
Group
WorkingNon-Sporting
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
USABelgium
Height (male)
25"11–13"
Height (female)
23"10–12"
Weight (male)
85 lbs10–16 lbs
Weight (female)
75 lbs10–16 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years12–14 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)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)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longmedium
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 Schipperke

The Schipperke is a confident, alert, curious Belgian barge dog — small black 'little captain' with foxy face and ruff. Originally from Belgium, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 10–16 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as confident, alert, curious.

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Alaskan Malamute health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Schipperke health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • MPS IIIB
  • Patellar luxation
  • Hypothyroidism