Alaskan Malamutes are healthy, hardy, powerful animals they are not, however, immune from problems. As with any dog breed, reputable breeders are constantly striving to produce the best animals they can, backyard breeders are simply producing puppies for money. Take the time to find a reputable breeder. You are making a long term commitment, make it a happy experience - not the beginning of endless visits to the vet.

Chondrodysplasia
     Chondrodysplasia is a hereditary deformation affecting the leg development of the dog. Dogs affected with this disorder can range from appearing nearly "normal" to being seriously deformed. Genetically this characteristic is a simple autosomal recessive. Dogs that are chondrodysplastic or carry the chondrodysplastic gene should not be used for breeding.
For further information please see: Medical Index/Chondrodysplasia.

Hip Dysplasia
      The hip joint is a ball and socket connection.  If the joint is malformed the head of the femur will not properly align with the cup of the hip socket.  This misalignment can range from mild to severe. In mild cases, with proper diet and exercise the animal can lead a full and active life. In more severe cases surgical correction or euthanasia are the only alternatives.  The most common indications of hip dysplasia, in small dogs, is when the dog older.  Generally with this late-life onset surgical correction is never required. Your veterinarian can X-ray your dog's hips for evaluation.
For further information please see: Medical Index/ Hip Dysplasia.

Hypothyroidism
     Hypothyroidism is the result of low production of hormones by the thyroid gland.  The symptoms can include skin and coat problems, sudden onset of aggressive behavior, itching lethargy, musky odor, among others.  A simple blood test will determine if your dog has this condition.
For more information please see :  Medical Index/Hypothyroidism.

Day Blindness
     Day blindness is the result of degeneration of the cone light receptors of the eye. This is a simple autosomal recessive characteristic. All Alaskan Malamute puppies should be tested for this condition and all breeding stock should be determined as clear.
For more information please see: Medical Index/Day Blindness.

Bloat (GDV)
     Bloat must not be ignored.  If your dog looks "bulgy", is pacing with anxiety and drooling a bit, he cannot sit or lie down comfortably and is in general distress, get moving now, get to a veterinarian.
For more information, please see: Medical Index/G.V.D. or bloat.

Cataracts
     Cataracts in dogs can be identified as opaque spots on the lens of the eye.  These spots may cause total or partial loss of vision.  Some cataracts are hereditary, while others are not.  In some cases surgery may help the dog recover.
For more information please see : Medical Index/Cataracts.

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