Alaskan Malamute vs Chinese Shar-Pei

Working · Large vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 45–60 lbs for the Chinese Shar-Pei.
  • The Alaskan Malamute typically lives longer (10–14 years).
  • The Alaskan Malamute has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Chinese Shar-Pei sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAlaskan MalamuteChinese Shar-Pei
Group
WorkingNon-Sporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
USAChina
Height (male)
25"18–20"
Height (female)
23"18–20"
Weight (male)
85 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
75 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years8–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longshort
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 Chinese Shar-Pei

The Chinese Shar-Pei is a loyal, calm, independent wrinkly Chinese guardian — hippopotamus-faced ancient farm and palace dog. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–60 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, calm, independent.

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Alaskan Malamute health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Chinese Shar-Pei health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Skin issues
  • Allergies