The Alaskan Malamute is a tough breed of dog. He can withstand temperatures as cold as 70 degrees below zero. He has double coat that wicks out moisture and traps heat. He also has black pigmented skin, which serves to protect his skin from sunburn and blistering from harmful UV rays that are reflected off the snow and ice. In addition, the Malamute is built with heavy muscles and dense bones that enable him to pull large loads on sleds across the frozen tundra of the arctic north. In 1933, Admiral Richard Byrd brought teams of Malamutes with him on his expedition into the arctic. Often confused with the Siberian Husky, the Malamute is a giant among dogs and can weigh between 75 and 100 pounds. The Malamute; however, is a gentle giant as he is often kept as a family dog. Talk with your vet Aurora, CO to learn more about this giant breed.