Challenging to train affectionate
Are Alaskan Malamutes easy to train?
Honest answer: Alaskan Malamutes are challenging to train. They're independent thinkers driven by their own instincts. Not impossible. But better suited to experienced dog owners who understand how to work with, not against, a strong-willed dog.
✗ Challenging to train
Best suited to: experienced dog owners · Key traits: affectionate, playful, stubborn
How easy are Alaskan Malamutes to train?
Alaskan Malamutes are honest work to train. The stubbornness is genuine. They're not stupid, they just have a strong independent streak and won't do something unless they understand why it's worth their while.
This doesn't mean Alaskan Malamutes can't be trained. With the right approach, they absolutely can be. But it does mean you can't rely on the dog to meet you halfway. The training methodology matters as much as the effort you put in.
Training tips specific to Alaskan Malamutes
- High-value treats only. Dry kibble doesn't cut it with a breed that has strong independent instincts. Use real chicken, cheese, or liver treats. The reward needs to be worth more than whatever else is competing for their attention.
- Short sessions, always ending positively. 5–10 minutes maximum. If a session isn't going well, step back to something the dog knows and end on a success. Never end on a failed command.
- Make it their idea. Alaskan Malamutes respond better when training feels like their choice rather than a demand. Capturing behaviour (rewarding something the dog does naturally) is often more effective than repeated command drilling.
- Puppy classes are strongly recommended. Not optional with this breed. A good trainer who understands the breed's independent nature will give you techniques that actually work.
- Patience over persistence. Pushing harder when a Alaskan Malamute resists rarely works. Step back, try a different approach, and come back to it another day.
- Never repeat a command more than twice. If they haven't responded by the second ask, you've either lost their attention or the reward isn't good enough. Repeating endlessly teaches them that the command is optional.
What Alaskan Malamutes find easiest and hardest to learn
Which commands do Alaskan Malamutes pick up quickest?
Commands with an immediate, clear reward structure are usually the easiest for Alaskan Malamutes. Sit tends to come relatively easily; reliable recall and stay at a distance require much more work.
What do Alaskan Malamutes struggle with most?
Reliable recall is usually the hardest skill for Alaskan Malamutes. Their stubborn streak means that once something more interesting has their attention, a recall command is easily ignored. Train recall from day one with very high-value rewards, and never let it become an optional command.
Full Alaskan Malamute profile. Temperament, shedding, costs and more.
Read the complete Alaskan Malamute breed guide →More questions about training Alaskan Malamutes
Are Alaskan Malamutes good for first-time owners?
Alaskan Malamutes are better suited to people with prior dog-owning experience. The independent, challenging temperament is much easier to navigate when you've handled a strong-willed dog before. First-time owners who are very committed and willing to get professional help can absolutely make it work. But go in with clear eyes.
Do Alaskan Malamutes respond well to puppy classes?
Puppy classes are strongly recommended for Alaskan Malamutes. Not optional. Finding a trainer who has specific experience with independent or stubborn breeds makes a significant difference. Avoid classes that rely heavily on repetitive drilling; look for trainers using engagement-focused techniques.
How long does it take to train a Alaskan Malamute?
Basic obedience commands (sit, down, stay, come) can typically be established in 4–8 weeks of daily short sessions for most dogs. With Alaskan Malamutes, expect the longer end of that. And be prepared for it to take longer in distracting environments. Reliable performance in all environments. Which is what actually matters. Takes months of consistent practice.
More questions about Alaskan Malamutes
Do they shed?Do they bark a lot?Are they good with kids?Are they good with cats?Are they hypoallergenic?Are they good family dogs?Are they aggressive?How long do they live?How much exercise?How much do they cost?Good for first-time owners?Good for seniors?Good in hot weather?Good in cold weather?Good guard dogs?Good running dogs?Can they be left alone?Good with other dogs?Good apartment dogs?Easy to groom?