Alaskan Malamute vs Wire Fox Terrier

Working · Large vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 17–19 lbs for the Wire Fox Terrier.
  • The Wire Fox Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Wire Fox Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Wire Fox Terrier sheds less.
  • The Wire Fox Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAlaskan MalamuteWire Fox Terrier
Group
WorkingTerrier
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
USAEngland
Height (male)
25"15"
Height (female)
23"15"
Weight (male)
85 lbs17–19 lbs
Weight (female)
75 lbs15–17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
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)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)High (4/5)
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)Low (2/5)
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
longwirehaired
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 Wire Fox Terrier

The Wire Fox Terrier is a confident, alert, gregarious fox-bolter — high-spirited British show ring star with a wiry white coat. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–19 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, alert, gregarious.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Alaskan Malamute health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Wire Fox Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism