Malamutes are great dogs, but not easy dogs. They are very independant and hard to train. Stubborn is an understatement. They can't be trusted off leash--they will head for Alaska. Their prey drive is extremely high. Cats, squirrels, mice, small dogs are all snacks as far as most mals are concerned. They shed like crazy--don't believe that twice a year stuff. It's worse twice a year, but there is constant shedding. They also tend to be dog aggressive, especially towards same sex dogs. The worst dog fight I've ever had to break up was two female malamutes. The bill to save Kayleigh's life was close to 1000 dollars. Had I not been home, both dogs would be dead. I wouldn't characterize them as calm either. My male malamute knocks me on butt while he plays several times a week!

Mals need a job. Weight pull, sledding, running, skijoring, whatever, they need a job! A good malamute is a tired malamute!

I have three mals here. I love them dearly. They are a great breed. You just need to be prepared for their quirks. If you are used to labs, a malamute is a big jump!