Alaskan Malamute vs Whippet

Working · Large vs Hound · Medium

Quick take
  • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 25–40 lbs for the Whippet.
  • The Whippet typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Whippet sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAlaskan MalamuteWhippet
Group
WorkingHound
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
USAEngland
Height (male)
25"19–22"
Height (female)
23"18–21"
Weight (male)
85 lbs25–40 lbs
Weight (female)
75 lbs25–40 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)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)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)Very Low (1/5)
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)Low (2/5)
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 Whippet

The Whippet is an affectionate, playful, calm small sighthound — looks like a mini Greyhound, sprints like one too. Originally from England, this medium hound breed typically weighs 25–40 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, playful, calm.

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Alaskan Malamute health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Whippet health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Heart disease
  • Eye conditions
  • Anesthesia sensitivity