5 Common Alaskan Malamute Health Concerns

While they won’t make good watchdogs, they’re devoted family companions that are sure to cheer you up after a long day. These smart dogs need plenty of training and exercise to keep their tails wagging.

Thinking of welcoming one of these furry friends into your life? Before picking up one of these peppy pooches, it’s important to understand the breed’s health history. Below, we’ll share 5 of the most common Alaskan Malamute health concerns so that you can be a prepared pooch parent. 

Cataracts

A cataract is a clouded eye lens that causes an obstruction in vision. Cataracts are usually inherited, though they can be a result of conditions like diabetes as well. Dogs can go blind through untreated cataracts, so it’s important to keep an eye out for the condition. 

Some cataracts can be removed through surgical intervention. In the event that your dog goes blind from a cataract, most pups adapt fairly quickly to their new adjusted state. 

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia unfortunately plagues many pooches, and the Alaskan Malamute is no exception. This condition occurs when a dog’s hip joint doesn’t fit properly within its socket. Instead, the two parts rub against each other which can cause pain, inflammation, and even lameness for your furry friend. Hip dysplasia is usually an inherited condition. 

Luckily, there are plenty of treatment options for dogs with hip dysplasia. In severe cases, surgery can be used to correct the misalignment. Otherwise, physical therapy, pain medication, and lifestyle adjustment may be used to manage the associated symptoms. 

Degenerative Polyneuropathy

Degenerative polyneuropathy is a disease that is caused by the degeneration of white matter of the spinal cord. This can lead to progressive paralysis of certain parts of the body, and is thought to be a genetic condition. Dogs with this condition may experience a lack of coordination, difficulty getting up, or stumbling while carrying out daily activities. 

This condition isn’t necessarily painful, but dogs with it can be somewhat weak. Unfortunately, there’s no possible treatment for the condition, though physical therapy can help preserve muscle mass. Your veterinarian will help you make lifestyle changes necessary to keep your furry friend feeling his best. 

Dwarfism 

Dwarfism is caused by the deficiency of the growth hormone in the pituitary gland. This autosomal disorder is usually inherited, though many dogs with this condition end up being sterile. Dogs with this condition may be noticeably smaller, have bulging eyes, lack of teeth, swollen joints, and may be comparatively tinier to the rest of the litter. 

Unfortunately, there’s no clear path to treating this condition. Affected dogs may be able to use hormone replacement therapy to cope with the condition. If dwarfism is caused by a certain tumor, the tumor may be removed through surgical intervention. 

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is caused by the underproduction of the thyroid gland. This gland regulates a dog’s metabolism, so affected dogs may experience a wide range of symptoms. You may notice your dog experiencing hair loss, changes in appetite or thirst, shortness of breath, or lethargy throughout usual daily activities. Hypothyroidism is formally diagnosed through blood testing. Once identified, your dog will be given a daily hormone replacement medication which should alleviate any associated symptoms. Thankfully, most dogs continue to live fulfilling lives once prescribed proper medication. 

Like any other pooch, the Alaskan Malamute comes with his own health history. However, taking care of these delightful dogs is so worth the extra care and concern. Enjoy welcoming one of these sweethearts into your life! 

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