About malamutes

Alaskan Malamute:
The breed's world history, present and future

INTRODUCTION
In my previous article, you have read about the Alaskan Malamutes native history - history of the breed in North America. Now I want to provide you with more information about situations in other continents and countries because Mals have spread to almost all parts of the world. You can find them in North and South America, Europe, Africa, Australia and Asia.
I want to very much thank the people from my Alaskan Malamute e-mail discussion list who helped me very much because they sent me many interesting facts about Mals in their countries. Of course, I have found some interesting info on the Net too, but my list friends have played the most important role in gaining facts that I have needed to make this article (the longest one in this serial)...Thank you again!
GREAT BRITAIN
The first Mals came from America in 1959 (male Pawnee Flash of North Wind and females Preston's Cheechako and her daughter) - and the first litter was born July 28 1960, bred by the Prestons. Before they returned to the US, they bred 3 litters under the kennel name Kananak. In the 70s, several Kotzebue dogs were imported. Subsequent imports, mainly in the 80s, have been Snowline's Polar Night, Kimiska's Arctic Sea Hawk of Highnoon, Can. Ch. (champion) Malnorska's Danikka of Highnoon, Malnorska's Gypsy Lady, Am. Ch. Fire'n Ice in Conclusion and Baron Von Star. Malamutes are what is known as a Rare Breed - this means that they can't win a championship title. Mostly they are imported from the USA and Canada, but there are few from Italy and Sweden. Mals from Britain have been exported to Australia, Austria, Norway, Sweden, Finland and back to Canada.
They have two clubs out here - The Alaskan Malamute Club that organises two shows a year (there are probably over 350 Mals in Great Britain today and the Alaskan Malamute Club has over 100 members), and a club that is not recognised by their Kennel Club, The Alaskan Malamute Working Association who organises sled dog rallies and weight pulls. The Malamutes can have some genetical problems, in the United Kingdom they test for Hip Dysplasia and Eye problems. These schemes are run by the British Veterinary Association. Hips are x-rayed and then scored. 0/0 (no dysplasia) is the best there is ... so the lower the score the better. Eyes are either clear or not. Both these schemes are voluntary. As you may know, the dog that goes to Great Britain must be in quarantine for 6 months because of the risk of spreading rabies. That is complicating the new imports and the British Malamute population is too isolated from the outside world. But it seems that this unpractical, outdated law will be cancelled soon. This will help the local Mals for sure...
SPAIN
The first Malamute imported to Spain was the bitch Sena-Lak's Lady Llano in 1961. Until the 1980's the breed was not very popular. During the last few last years there were some very important imports from Canada and the USA like Ch. Opic De Chabek, Ch. Onan's Bit Of A Witch, Ch. Storm Kloud's Ben Son Of A Dream, Ch. TNT Quincy of Camps, Ch. Storm Kloud's Legend Continues or Ch. Myke Tyson De Chabek. Two of these dogs Ch. Opic De Chabek and Ch. Storm Kloud's Legend Continues were the top reproductors in the last 5 years. From the 1990's, the breed has has rapidly gained popularity. In 1993, there were 1374 registered Mals, 1774 in 1994, 2547 in 1995, 3180 in 1996...There is a lower, but still very high tendency from 1997 (2990 registered Mals) and 1998, when 2409 Mals were registered...
Athough Spain is a very hot country, we can see that this nordic breed is quite popular here. Of course as in any population there are dogs that aren't first-rate, but the Spanish Mals are generally on a high standard due to the new imports and using studs from abroad...
ITALY
Mr Camillo Grillo of Rome imported the first Malamute, Flico du Longet, in 1970 from the Swiss breeder Mr J. Paccaud of Du Longet Kennel. Flico became the first Italian Champion and sired the first Italian litter with Vega dell Alaska, owned by Rosmary Pacini. The first Malamute that did much to promote knowledge about the breed in Italy was Sugar River Fox Fire, imported in 1974 from USA from the Suger River Kennel of Jerry Winder by Gloria Urbani, and who - with two other bitches- have started the Del Lago Degli Orsi Kennel (Sugar River Fox Fire was born in 1973 and became 3 x World Champion and French, Italian and Hungarian champion. One of the other bitches was: Snokimo's Nakina, born in 1972, 2 x World winner). Italy has both a Northern Dog Club, the Club Italiano Razze Nordiche (CIRN)
and a speciality club, the Club Italiano Alaskan Malamute (CIAM). In addition to its shows, the CIAM recognizes top producers by awarding a Riproduttors Championship, the equivalent of the AMCA Register of Merit. The breed have gained popularity. In 1982, there were totally (Italians have 2 register books - LOI is the Italian Origin Book and LIR is the Origin Book for the dog with only 3 generations known) 31 registered Mals, 74 in 1985, 335 in 1990 and 794 in 1985. There was a lowering tendence in 1998 when 489 Mals were registered in both books. Italians have imported many wonderful dogs especially from USA - American/Canadian/Italian Ch. and Ich. Storm Kloud's Quest For Glory (World winner 1994, European winner 1993, 1994, Best Malamute in America-1995...), American/Luxembourg Ch. and Ich. Kiska's Duke of Shasta (European winner), etc. Many great dogs of today came from Italy and I hope Italians will keep it up.
DENMARK
The first Malamute, Landsrud Alma, entered Denmark from Norway and began Moon Song Kennels which was at the forefront of Danish Malamute breeders during the 1980s.
In Denmark, Mals are mostly family dogs, although their use as sled or cart dogs is increasing as more Danes learn about the breed. Since they have no Malamute club, Malamute owners are members of the Spidshundenklubben, a club for Nordic Dogs. This organization was founded in 1968 and has more than 800 members.
NORWAY
The first Mal arrived in Norway in 1975-76. A four month quarantine makes importation difficult. Most Norwegian lines arise from Oywind Moen's Topkok's Kennel. His import female, Tote-Um's Alaska Sno Bird, is behind almost all of the Mals in Norway today. She was followed in 1979 by Tote-Um's Ballard Queen. That same year, Mr. Moen also imported the male Orms Dorm's Moose Moose of Tote-Um from the US. Other imports were Tigara's Snow Owl of Accomac (England, bred in US), Moose Creek Tulugak (Alaska), Moose Creek Thule (US), Alwaasen Mitzy (US), Targhee Strawberries Shaman, Barrenfield Lord Santana (US)-breeding to him have introduced some new bloodlines into the Norwegian Malamutes, Zagoskin Maleygmyut's Kre Aklak (Denmark, bred in Holland), Chorus Line's Paraded...
In 1989, breedings from shipped semen from Int./Nl./Blg./Fr./Ger./Lux./ Ch. Joli Mapa's Hero Boy have happened.
Most Norwegians have only 1 or 2 dogs. As part of the family, they join their owners in different activities such as backpacking, sledding or just a companion on walks. Neither weight pulling or obedience is very popular although weight pulling is held just for fun at the club's annual winter collection. For the most part, the Norwegians sled, backpack, ski, and bicycle with their dogs for recreation.
FINLAND
Alaskan Malamutes arrived in Finland in the 1960s and 1970s. A male, Sami Silver Tio of Finland, was registered and a bitch Lupa came from the first breeding in Italy. The first kennel to breed Alaskan Malamutes in Finland was Merisaimon, using 2 US imports, the male Wonderland Toma, and the bitch, Wonderland Miksi. Serious breeding began in the 80s with imports from Norway, Sweden and England. In November, 1992, at the biggest dog show of the year, The Helsinki International Dog Show, only 8 Mals were shown. However, the breed is gaining ground, partly because the quarantine regulations for dogs coming from Central Europe, Canada or the US have been lifted. The Alaskan Malamute in Finland is well represented by an active club. Alaskanmuuttiyhdistys (ALMA). ALMA publishes a quarterly newsletter and holds Camps Geld three times per year. It also sponsors weekend seminars and training camps for the Malamutes and their owners with various activities such as sledding, weight pulling, and tracking. Once a year there is a National Specialty show organized with Suomen Seurakoirayhdistys, the Finnish Companion Dog Association.
Initially, Mals in Finland were purely sled and house dogs; however, some new fields have opned up. At least 1 person has trained for tracking and search and rescue. One female has passed the Finnish novice class in obedience and will continue into Open, and another is working in agility. The weight pull contest at the yearly Winter Camp has been quite populra, and skijoring and sledding are natural winter sports in this far northern country. Only a few people have more than 2 Mals, so an all-Malamute team is a rare, but welcome sight...
SLOVENIA
The first Malamute imported to Slovenia was female Cayuga z Predhuri Sumavy that was imported from Czechoslovakia. Other Mals that followed were male Dick Eskimo (Czechoslovakia), male Attu (Italy), male Satu (Italy), male Eskimo Amana (Czechoslovakia), male Balt Moravske Strane (Czechoslovakia) and his brother Bad Moravske Strane. Till 1992 all the registrations were JR (Yugoslav Register) so above mentioned
Mals were registered in Belgrade but imported by Slovenian owners. So Cayuga Z Predhuri Sumavy was not only the first Malamute in Slovenia but also the first Malamute in Ex Yugoslavia. After the Slovenian independency the registration numbers continued. The first Mal that received the title Slovenian Champion was Eskimo Amana. First Mal that have gained the title Slovenian Junior Champion was Hopi Point's Candy Bear. Not many litters are born in Slovenia per year. In 1994, there were 3 litters, 4 litters in 1995, 2 litters in 1996, only 1 litter in 1997 and 4 litters in 1998. Till now (1999) only 139 Malamutes are registered in Slovenia - 83 from Slovenian breeding and 7 imported from Italy and most of the remaining 49 Mals were imported from Czech Rep. and Croatia. In Slovenia, they have many Mals imported from Hungary but only few of them are registered in their register book as they don't have all the documents requested (like Export pedigree etc.).
Although Slovenia isn't a country with lot of puppies born and many Mals registered, kennels out there are doing good job in producing quality Mals.
POLAND
The first Alaskan Malamute imported to Poland was a bitch, Crazy del Monte, imported to Poland from Czechoslovakia in 1985s, so the Alaskan Malamutes have been in Poland for 14 years. Crazy del Monte was the first bitch of the Molosos Kennel, based mostly on the Czech Malamutes. Many Polish Malamutes have her name in their pedigrees. Mals of other first kennels came from this kennel and from other Czech imports - these kennels' names are Zagoro, Od Belfrow, Od Jarles, Z Indianskiej Wioski, Merkambertamer...
Some imports from Europe were from Denmark, from Noatak's Kennel (Sweden) and from Wakon Kennels (USA), but they didn't the situation much in the first years. Some good imports from Czech Republic, that positively changed the first Polish Malamutes came to Poland since 1993 - especially Cezar Placicke Doupe, some puppies of the Navarama Mal Kennel, especially the kids of Ich. (Interchampion) Rex Cold Valley of Keema's Wolf Pak - Jurasek (for example Eskimo King Navarama, Icy Ken Kid), puppies of the Ich. Believe in the Win of Montego, and some kids of the Belgian bitch Cold Valley's Selection Line Overnightrain. In recent years Polish breeders have imported some puppies from the famous kennels: the older of them is PL Jch. (Polish Junior Champion), PL Ch. and also Winner of Poland for year 1999 Daystar del Biagio (imported from Italy) and Duty del Biagio and Samantha del Biagio that came from the same kennel. Younger than Daystar is PL Jch. Storm Kloud's Hhudson Icy Wind (imported from the USA from one of the most famous Malamute kennels in the world - Storm Kloud Kennel). There are some Malamutes that were bred by Polish breeders that are really good ones, for example PL Jch. Flying Wolf z Radockiej Gory, PL Jch. Alabama Tobogan and Ch. Aiya Cheyenne z Radockiej Gory (the first Malamute that gained the title of Polish Interchampion). The Polish breeders' plans for future are very interesting and I hope the Polish Malamutes will be not only very numerous, but gaining quality all the time.
CZECH REPUBLIC
The first litter was born on 1st June 1981. Dam of the litter was Alekka of Nome (imported from Germany) and sire was to Germany imported Texas dog Sakeetawa's Amaguk. The puppies were born in del Monte Kennel, owned by H. Petrusova, our first breeding advisor of Mals. This was the first Malamute kennel established in Czechoslovakia (union of Czech Republic and Slovakia, this union was cancelled in 1992). Later, there were few other dogs imported - bitch Parka vom Mount Kinley (from Germany), bitch Athabasca of Midnite Sun (from Canada), male Iltchi vom Mount Kinley (Germany), male Jotom's Mescalero (Canada), male Tamanak Chiminuk (Netherlands), male Mistahiya's Saskatchewan (Canada) and male Mister T Grandson of Kaitu (from Alaska). Newer imports were: male Alayuk's Araluk (Canada - descendant of the same parents as Athabasca of Midnite Sun), male Kaitu's Koyuk of Taaralaste and his sister Kaitu's Kiska of Taaralaste (Alaska), bitch Cold Valley's My Favorite Bijou (Belgium) and brothers and sister from the same litter from Italy: bitch Perla Ionica di Latina, male Xefalu Ipuk di Latina, male Furio di Latina and male Lion Flemingo di Latina.
Second litter in Czech Republic was the B litter in del Monte Kennel from Alekka of Nome and Iltchi v. Mount Kinley whelped in 1982. Third was the C litter - del Monte out of Parka v. Mount Kinley and Iltchi v. Mount Kinley, whelped on 7th July 1982. In the same year, on 16th December, first litter in Alberta Kennel (owner V. Soukup) have arrived. Dam was Athabasca of Midnite Sun and sire was Iltchi v. MK. In 1984, our third kennel was established - of Magnolia , owned by A. Kurova.
On the 8th of April 1984, Club of Breeders of Nordic Breeds was created. Later (1991), it was re-named the Club of Nordic Breeds. Unfortunately, it wasn't functioning properly so in 1999, special club only for Alaskan Malamutes was admitted. It's name is Alaskan Malamute Club Czech Republic and we hope that it will help to make our Mals better in all ways...
The Mals have gained most popularity after the year 1989 when many puppies were registered every year. Quantity won before quality. Prices of puppies were lowered beacuse they weren't sold well, many of them ended in shelters and similar places. Many kennels bred only few litters and then ended their breeding activity. The starting kennel del Monte ended it's activity in Malamutes in 1989 with it's last N litter...
The present is much better. We have imported few Mals from abroad (for example - Mch. and Ich. Rex Cold Valley of Keema's Wolf Pak Jurasek ( Kennel Navarama Mal) - Belgium, sire of my girl Sophie - Cardif Rex od Vranskeho potoka. Others are Cold Valley's Tum Maxime - Belgium, Joli Mapa X-Dalasi - Belgium, Kid de Soto de Rio Frio - Italy, Totem's Spirit in the Sky - USA, Antarctic Explorer Xpect No War - Belgium, Forti Fortuna Canyon de Chelly - Poland, etc.) and our breeders are refreshing bloodlines with using studs from abroad. For example, the first insemination with frozen semen in Czech Republic have been done by Mal breeders R. Hovorkova and M. Al-Nassir, owners of Aleutia Kennel. The dam was Czech bitch Ich. Eagle Wing of Navarama Mal (Navarama Mal is one of the most succesful Mal kennels in Czech Rep.) and sire was American dog Ch. Poker Flat's Yukon Law. In the 2000 born first puppies in Kennel Stormyth ( parents- male from Poland- import from USA- Storm Kloud's Hhudson Icy Wind+ female Cardif Rex od Vranskeho potoka), in the Kenenel Arctic Snow (male from Italy Daystar del Biagio+ female Ebony Snow Navarama Mal), in the Kennel Navarama Mal were born puppies ( male Northern Lighting Timba from Belgium + female Bijou od Severního slunce).
I hope that our Mals will gain even more successes than today. I?m sure that we're on a good way...
FRANCE
Mrs. Michele Raust de Palma introduced the Alaskan Malamute to France in 1974 and had the first litter in 1975 out of Laska XI and Shooting Star. Two puppies were sold to Mr. Jean-Vincent Fournis as foundation stock. The second breeding produced the first French Champion, Manitou, who was also a Spanish Champion, Champion of Monaco, and International Champion.
In France, most Malamutes are placed as pets. Only a handful find their way into working or show homes; achieving a French Championship is very difficult. Until 1992, only one Chmapion de France de Conformite au Standard was allowed per sex, per year. Increased Malamute entries now enable the breed to obtain two championships per sex and per year. An Elite A, which is equivalent of the Alaskan Malamute Club of America's ROM (Register Of Merit) title, is also awarded to top producing sires and dams.
GERMANY
Imports to Germany initially came from many different Canadian and US kennels, especially from Nancy Russel of Storm Kloud Kennels. Chris Jannelli from Belgium has also sent some fine dogs. Breeding of registered dogs is controlled though the breed clubs. Breed wardens evaluate dogs to determine if they are worthy of breeding, using requirements designed to maintain not only type in the breed but genetic health as well. In addition to considering the dog's conformation, the breed warden requires cerificates vouching for the dog's hips, eyes, and physical well-being before granting approval to breed. Approval for additional depends upon the results of hip x-rays on the progeny from the previous litter(s). All must be radiographed, and at least 50 % must receive a good rating. Unfortunately, German dogs still can't concur to the Mals from other countries, for example Belgian ones. New imports may help to improve their quality.
SWITZERLAND
The first Malamute, Int./Swiss Ch. Wagnark of Coldfoot, arrived in Switzerland in 1965. His owner, Mrs. Helly Vogt, has been breed warden for the Swiss Club since 1966. She established an internal studbook for the breed at the outset. The Swiss Club emphasizes good placement (which helps to reduce number of Malamutes turning up in shelters) and responsible breeding for the highest quality possible. They believe that each successive generation should improve on the one which preceded it. Of the approximately 120 dogs which have been imported in the last 30 years, the first were from the US and Canada from Sno-Pak, Kanangnark, Coldfoot and Tigara Kennels. In the mid-70s, these were followed by dogs from Zagoskin, Nunaga's (from Tigara lines), Tote-Um and Tobe. Kennels in other European countries that have exported to Switzerland include Naksala, Baffin, Keewatin and Mount Kinley from Germany; du Grand Pierreux, Cold Valley's and Wolf Chorus from Belgium; Rossnisska's from Austria and de L'Etoile from France. A combination of judicious breeding, excellent imports and attention to working ability has made the Swiss Alaskan Malamute a quality animal.
THE NETHERLANDS
The first Dutch Champion was Tigara's Matanuska U-Chee, owned by Mrs. Anita Andela and bred in the US by Mrs. G. Schwalbe and Dorothy Dillingham. Imported in 1967, U-Chee and her sister, Tigara's Matanuska Chee-Chee, were also the first Mals registered in Holland. Mrs. L. Sheffer-Pater bred the first Malamute litter, born in March, 1972. Mrs. Betsy Katelaar began her very influential career in Alaskan Malamutes with a male from this litter, Ch. Anernek. With an American import, Ch. Jotom's Ilannak, she began her Zagoskin Maleygmyut Kennel. Her fine exports to other European countries have started and strengthened their breedings. Mrs. R. Looymans-Mimpen started her Nukilik Kennel with a dog, Ch. Zagoskin Maleygmyut s Pitlik, and a bitch, Ch. Zagoskin Maleygmyut's Pitiksik. She then bred her imported Ch. Inharmony's Nukilik Unayok to Ch. Inuit's Luavik of Zagoskin, and a puppy from this breeding was sent to Finland. A sister to Pitiksik, Ch. Zagoskin Maleygmyut's Sitiyok and Nukilik's Ahre-Gay, a dog, form the basis of the Of Narjan Mar Kennels of Mrs. F. Kerklaan. Other succesful dogs in this period were Ch. Zagoskin Maleygmyut's Anana, Ch. Zagoskin Maleygmyut's Maitsiak, Ch. Zagoskin Maleygmyut's Yngyt, Ch. Zagoskin Maleygmyut's Atataq, Ch. Zagoskin Maleygmyut's Juini, Ch. Nukilik's Niviasar, World/Dutch Ch. Zagoskin Maleygmyut's Takuvik, World/Dutch Ch. Kataum Inua's Nunaraq, etc...
New and new kennels were establablished, for example Tokositna Maleygmyut, Akkimayunga, Mahkajo, Zharkova , Shaktolik...
New dogs from abroad were imported from famous kennels, like Cold Valley's Justified Sila, Jotom's Paluktuk, Jotom's Issuk of Kataum Inua, Apple Hill's Tango, etc. The first Alaskan Malamute in Holland to obtain and obedience title, a Working Team Dog title and a Stamina Test title (UV) is Ch. Bareebinyackzan.
To maintain the quality of their dogs, the Alaskan Malamute Club of the Netherlands (AMCN) mandates breeding restrictions. To be used for breeding, the Alaskan Malamute must have hip x-rays certified either excellent or good, be over 24 months for bitches or 18 months for males, not have a litter within the previous 12 months (bitches), have no serious genetic deformation and not be monorchid (males). The AMCN doesn't have any titles to recognize producing or working achievement, but it does encourage its members to work with their dogs. At activity days, members are introduced to backpacking, carting, and pulka (you will read more about sporting with Mals in one of next chapters of this serial). The club has held walks, weekend hikes in the Belgium Ardennes forest, and even sledding/packing weeks in France. The club holds its own dog show each year, although championship points aren't always available. To become a Dutch Champion, a dog must with at least four championship points under at least 2 different judges. In addition, the last point must be won after the dog is 27 months old. Although their numbers are small, Mals in the Netherlands are in excellent hands. Their quality has enabled them to become foundation stock for other European countries.
ISRAEL
The Israel Kennel Club was established in the early 70's, and was soon accepted to the F.C.I. One of its first members was the ISDC (Israel Spitz Dog Club). At first only Keeshounds, Chows, Huskies and Samoyeds were counted. The Malamutes were late comers, the first arrived to Israel in 1975. She was of not good reputation nor exceptional ancestry, but of a nice type. Next few dogs came from puppy farms in Canada, some from shops in the USA. None left any legacy in the Holy Land.
Some years ago breeding regulations came into force, and suddenly they had no males to use whatsoever. The club decided to take some steps, and made contacts with Mrs. Nancy Russell of Storm Kloud Kennel. These contacts last ever since, Nancy became a soul friend with some of the Israeli Malamute people, and has already been there twice. The first puppy to arrive from Wisconsin was Is. Ch. Storm Kloud's CCruisin On By, a great male, brother to Ch. Storm Kloud's CCyrus Rex Valae, a very well known male in Europe. Second was Is. Ch. Storm Kloud's TTamary II, elegant and yet very strong female. Another female - Storm Kloud's In the Desert, who had to wait until the Gulf war was over to fly here, died after having only one litter at young age. A close personal relationship with Mrs. Chris Janelli of Belgium (the most famous kennel in Europe - Cold Valley's ) resulted in some good quality imports, a pair of great looking dogs, male and female from Le Chabek Kennels in Canada, a female from Hopy Point in Slovenia, and more contributed to the breeding programs, some more some less. During 1994 they accepted a unique contribution in the form of Iditarod (an American most famous sled dog race) veteran, Am. Ch. Storm Kloud's Hhere I Am, that came to stay for a year. He managed to finish his Israeli Championship the old way, by winning 3 CAC (FCI title - Awaiting of National Championship) , and left some offsprings whose influence is very well noticed. The latest comers are two Mals from Maureen Andersen of Keikewabic Kennel, Canada, a gorgeous female and a wonderful young male. Today, only 35-40 Mals are in Israel but interest in the breed is increasing. All together since 1975, they had some 200 Israeli born Malamutes from about 19 litters. Not all are the ones they hoped for, but some are with no doubt all a breeder can wish.
JAPAN
Malamutes first came to Japan with Americans who brought their dogs withthem while they lived there in the sixties. The first registration with the
Japan Kennel Club did not occur until 1971, when Squankan's Playboy was imported from the US, by Norio Iwata in Tokyo. A decade passed before the
next registration. By 1984 the Kazamas had begun importing Malamutes to their pet shop, Africa
Kennel, registering them under the kennel name Dog Heart Africa. Their first breeding was between Kuuipo's Kapono and Riata's Spice on Ice. The first home bred Malamutes in Japan were two females from this breeding. Mrs Kawahata began importing additional US lines, a female Kanagawa MT and
Nockchin's Maximillion, who finished his Japanese Championship in 1985. Another import finished his championship that year - Ch. Kimiska's Lord of the
Ring. The Kazamas then imported Am. Ch. Storm Kloud's Ooutlaw and Am. Ch. Hug A Bear's Echo of King Togi, a pair with profound influence on the breed
in Japan. Ch. Bista of Dog Heart Africa, owned by Mr Okubo, became the first home bred champion. Over the ensuing years, Kazamas imported many American Champions, including the 1984 AMCA National Specialty winner Am Ch. Nomarak's Kenworth, Am. Ch. Storm Kloud's Hhowling Satana, Am. Ch. Osirises Princess Nene, Am. Ch. Storm Klouds Go West Young Man (Fujin) and Am. Ch. Sitka Tathline. The latter two were BOB Dog and Bitch, respectively at the JKC Headquarters show in 1988. Fujin had a very succesful show career until his untimely death in 1990, winning the first BIS for a Malamute in Japan in 1988. The Japanese are working their dogs, and the results should have some effect on their breeding choices. The first CDX (Companion Dog Excellence) title was obtained by a Japanese-bred female, Ch. Cordelia Kamui I. Japanese are still importing new dogs, especially from the US, and that is a good step to healthy and beautiful Mals that Japanese have already done...
NEW ZEALAND
The first Mal imported to New Zealand was Gina of Clebar imported from United Kingdom by Bert Patmore - whelped on 10th June 1967 and imported 25th July 1973... She was never shown or bred. A bitch Herstans Unuyuk of Valley View was imported by Mr Patmore. Whelped on 10th May 1976. She arrived in New Zealand in whelp to a Scottish Malamute Tigara's Farland Scots Pride - 5 pups whelped on 11th October 1977. Mr Patmore also imported Kandik's Cyronak of Herstan, borned 3rd October 1977, imported 26 October 1979. Then Yvonne Harris imported Tigara's Metyel of Accomac (borned
24th September 1976 and imported 13 February 1979) from Scotland breeder Neil Brown who was breeding under Tigara prefix. Mrs Harris also imported Hots Buran from USA (borned 10th February 1974, imported 9th July 1976) and next his brother and sister from other litters from USA (Hots Prince Phillip and Hots Kiska). While in quarantine in United Kingdom a litter of 4 puppies was whelped. Kiska and the pups came to New Zealand on 6th May 1980. The pups imported had to have all different registered names as Ms Harris did not have an English prefix ..... Erklasook of Arctic Winds, Panook of the North, Chinok of the Yukon and the only female Chimo Silver Moon - she went to Australia.
Seacourt Icicle from United Kingdom was the next - borned 18th December 1972 Import date was 18th May 1981 - she probably haven't been ever bred The first registered litter in New Zealand was from Erklasook of Arctic Winds bred to Tigara's Metyel of Accomac - 2 males Niklaus of the North and Nanook of the North. Later, Nanook went to Australia.
AUSTRALIA
Herstan's Whaka-Pena-Tama, the New Zealand import by Irene Gates, arrived in 1978. That same year, Tony and Marilyn Syme of Meryton Kennels in Victoria arranged a lease of Mrs Harris's Aus/NZ Ch. Hots Buran in co-ownership with Mick Mooney. Buran achieved his Australian Championship soon. Symes also bred Australia's first litter out of their New Zealand import, Aus/NZ Ch. Chimo Silver Moon. Four of her eight puppies went on to finish their championships. One, Ch. Meryton Atasuk Chimo, was the first Malamute to win a BIS (Best In Show) at an All Breed Championship Show. Her brother and sister from the second breeding became not only champions but obedience title holders as well. Ch. Meryton Makluk Tenekee, CDX finished his obedience title before his first birthday, and sister, Ch. Meryton Makluk Panda, CDX quickly followed. The Beverwijk Kennels of F. M. Worman are on the Gold Coast of QLD. In 1983, he imported three Malamutes: Miskimos Blackjack, Bar B R?s Sugar Babe, and Rogards Shady Lady, all from the USA. Interest in Malamutes got a boost when Buran's head was used on a dog food box and his grandson Ch. Inuk Nutara Kadluk, played a wolf in a television commercial. His son Meryton Wsewolod (Jock) was the star of a 1987 news pregram on Melbourne TV which followed his exploits on an Australian Antartic expedition. Other imports also came to Australia. From the UK, Mrs W. Newton of Yarram,Victoria imported Ch. Snow Eagle of Highnoon, Highnoon's Mescalero Apache, and Highnoon's Laughing Water. R. Wells, Souther River Western Australia obtained Amerinds Bell Chyme Wolsong (US) Mr and Mrs L. Bennett of Wandiligong bought Victoria's own Berchtenbreiter Kodiak (CAN), Mr and Mrs E. Singer formerly of Warrandyte, Victoria imported AUS/NZ Ch. Eskimo Jane of the North (NZ). Mrs I. Gates, Croydon, South Australia imported Tigara Sea Voyageur (UK) and Mrs D. Sullivan, Sebastopol Victoria bought AM/CAN Ch. Storm Kloud's Qqwanee Song (US). In the last decade, the Malamutes popularity has escalated in Australia, so that these original dogs are now foundation lines for upcoming kennels. Polstar's of Mrs D. Sullivan, Latanpark of Mrs E. Luke, Huskypak of Mrs Pat Roae in New South Wales and Whitemist of Mrs Irene Gates in South Australia all obtained bitches from Beverwijk. The Tundra Kennels of Wilma and Ron Livington have many champions produced from Meryton Sisamut Kara and their male Ch. Meryton Makluk Thunder. From a Polstar litter out of Snow Eagle, Wendy and Mick Newton of Victoria took two bitches and began they Chukchi Alaskan Malamutes. They have gone on to import many dogs from the US and UK. Although Australia is about the size of the continental US, its center is a desert, clustering the majority of the population in the coastal areas. The breed has become popular enough for some predictable problems to arise. The Alaskan Malamute Club of Victoria has had to form a breed rescue to deal with unwanted dogs. To help control hip dysplasia the AMCV hip control program has succeeded in getting their registered boday the Victorian Canine Coucil to use a suffix on the pedigrees of dogs with normal hip x-rays, which should assist conscientious breeders. The pinnacle of the Australian shows is the Sydney Royal and Royal Melbourne Show, which is benched, however, shows are held every weekend. One notable winner, owned by Paharey Kennels, is Ch. Huskypak Hussybear, winner of the only available Challenge Certificate (CC) for females in 1988, 1989, 1992 and 1993. In 1988, her brother Ch. Huskypak Aussie Bear joined her winning the dog CC...

text by Katerina Scheuflerova jun.

The color of the coat is not nearly as important as the texture and density. Malamutes have quite a color range, as is evident by the Descriptive Color and Marking Code that is approved by the AMCA. Though it is most common to see dogs of the grey and white type or the black and white type, this does
not mean that the reds or whites are rare or undesirable. White is the only solid color allowed in the breed. All other colors must have white undersides, and must be accented by white markings on the face, chest. and legs.
The Standard of the Breed calls for a desired freighting size of 25 inches at the shoulder and a weight of 85 pounds for males; for females, 23 inches and 75 pounds. It is, however, not uncommon to see Malamutes either larger or smaller than these desired freighting sizes.
In considering size, one must at all times remember why the Malamute was originally bred. The dog had to exert constant physical effort, and yet require a relatively small amount of food. A dog much larger than that defined in the Standard would require more food just to stay alive than would be allowed for the amount of weight to be pulled! A dog much smaller
than that called for in the Standard would not be capable of putting forth enough physical effort to enable it to pull the loaded sledge for a long distance over many days. Thus, the basis for the sizes in the Standard is simply efficiency.
The general appearance of the Alaskan Malamute should be that of a powerfully built dog with a broad, deep chest, large bone and a broad head. None of these characteristics should be carried to such an extreme that the qualities are out of proportion with the rest of the dog. Adequate bone is
needed, but not to the extent that the bone is so large that it makes the dog seem awkward and inefficient. The same is true of the head. Though it should be large and somewhat blocky in appearance, it should not be so heavy as to give a coarse or clumsy look. The head should have a wide skull with a
thick muzzle having well muscled jaws. The ears, however, should be small in proportion to the rest of the head. Long extremities would be prone to frostbite. The almond shaped eyes must be brown, never blue. All these features help to blend the head in with the rest of the body, exhibiting a powerfully build dog without being ponderous.
The Alaskan Malamute should give the impression of an efficiently functioning animal, balanced and compact with the strength and physical capabilities needed for endurance. It is truly extraordinary that one is able to combine such physical aptitude with such a remarkably beautiful appearance, but this has been accomplished in the Alaskan Malamute ? an
extraordinary and remarkable breed.
Temperament
Malamutes are not from the same mold as the typical dog in both some positive and some negative respects.
Malamutes are lively and alert to their surroundings. They are intelligent but often independent by nature. Because of this, it is recommended that the new owner enlist his dog in formal obedience classes to develop discipline and proper social behavior. Training may be the difference between a problem
dog and an enjoyable companion.
While resembling wolves, they are not closely related. Malamutes are generally friendly and desirous of human affection and attention. Malamutes usually are too friendly to be good watch dogs, although their appearance often is intimidating to strangers. Malamutes definitely are not one-man or one-family oriented. They generally should get along as well as any breed
with children; but, of course, the children should not be allowed to abuse the dog.
Alaskan Malamutes are good listeners and can carry on a conversation by talking (not barking) in woo-woos. Malamutes will generally howl upon hearing sirens, as it they were answering a long, lost cousin in the distance. Usually malamutes are one of the quieter breeds, making noise only if there is a good reason. Because of their size and strength, Malamutes can be fairly destructive by chewing and digging, particularly as puppies. Therefore, the removal of temptation and a vigilant watch are effective precautions. While Malamutes
from puppyhood can be successfully raised with the existing family dog or cat, they usually are not tolerant of strange animals with which they come into contact. The responsible owner should have his dog under control in a fenced yard or on a leash; thus, not creating a problem.
The Malamute has his own unique personality with virtues and vices which make him such an interesting comparion for many people.
Training
From the beginning when Malamutes were used as sled dogs, an independent nature was often important. The Malamute sometimes could follow the trail or determine ice conditions better than its owner. The wise musher often would
put much faith in the experienced dogs to make decisions. Even today, the Malamute has this independent temperament; some call it stubbornness or even a lack of intelligence. Actually, the Malamute is fairly intelligent but needs to be motivated. It needs to see a benefit for itself to behave as its owner would like. Often praise from the master is not sufficient motivation.
Fortunately, the Malamute is not above taking food bribes which can produce amazing results.
Training must be consistent with the wrong behavior always receiving correction and proper behavior always receiving praise and suitable reward. Timing is extremely important. Correct only when the pup is caught in the act; never correct for a past misdeed. Patience is a must with a puppy as it learns how to be a good member of the household with the owner's guidance.
Never get angry but apply the proper discipline firmly and fairly.
Housebreaking is one of the first items to be taught. There are two approaches. First is to paper train the pup, and as it becomes older and can control itself (about four months), transfer the papers outside. While paper training can be taught as young as six weeks of age, it is sometimes difficult to get the pup to forget about the original location of the papers. Second is to teach housebreaking directly outdoors by taking the pup
out often; especially after it eats, drinks, plays, wakes up after a nap, etc. A portable metal dog crate, which can become the pup's den, would be an aid in housebreaking as dogs usually do not like to soil their personal area where they rest and sleep. Thus, if the pup is placed in its crate when left unattended, it will try to wait.
Leash training can be frustrating initially, but regular practice willusually prevail. A short cord, but long enough for the pup to trip over, canquicken this learning.
Obviously it is easier to train a small pup than a full grown adult, so it is recommended that formal obedience training begin at an early age. It has been proven that training a pup will produce maximum results if it has not had a chance to develop bad habits. Many dog training clubs offer kindergarten classes for pups two to four months old. Formal obedience training classes are recommended for the basic exercises such as heeling,
come on command, stays, etc. This training also helps the dog to learn self-discipline. The owner will understand his/her dog better, learning the dog's abilities and limitations. Often obedience training develops a closer bond between the owner and dog.

Descriptive Color and Marking Code

The following code has been approved by the Alaskan Malamute Club of
America, Inc., and its purpose is to:

1. Eliminate misunderstandings and incorrect information on pedigrees,
registrations, etc.
2. Supply the information needed for prospective or new owners and
breeders to describe the dog correctly.
3. Provide a universally accepted set of color and marking definitions
that can be utilized by the Breeders Information Service.
4. Facilitate future studies and research in color genetics.

Color Description

* Black and White - Black guard hair with black or dark grey undercoat.
* Alaskan Seal and White - Black or black tipped guard hairs with white
or cream undercoat. Dog appears black at a distance but is not a true black
because of the light undercoat.
* Sable and White - Black or gray guard hairs with a reddish undercoat
and red trimmings. Both black and red factors evident.
* Gray and White - Gray guard hairs with light gray, cream, or white
undercoat. Dog definitely appears gray even though there may be some black
hairs on the topline. No red factor evident.
* Silver and White - Light gray guard hairs with white undercoat.
* Red and White - A definite shade of red, either light or dark; with
light points (lip line and nose), and eye color. No black factor evident.
* All White - Both guard hairs and undercoat are white. Often evidence of
a mask in cream color. Only solid color allowed.
* Trimmings - Shadings of gold, cream, buff, brown or reddish hues often
found on legs, ears, tail and face between white areas of the underbody and
the dark color above.

Face Markings

* Cap - A cap of color covers the top of the head and ears usually coming
to a point in the center of the forehead.
* Goggles - Dark areas under the eyes and extending sideways to the cap.
* Bar - A dark area extending from the center point of the cap down the
nose.
* Eye Shadow - Dark markings under the eyes but not extending out to the
cap.
* Star - A small white spot in the center of the forehead.
* Blaze - A white mark extending from the center point of the cap back up
the forehead. Width and length can vary.
* Closed Face - Dark coloring covering the face with no distinct markings
on the face.
* Open Face - A cap covering the top of the head and no other markings on
the face.
* Full Mask - The combination of cap, goggles and bar.
* Mask - The combination of cap and goggles.

Chest Markings

* Necklace - A curving band of dark color across the chest.
* Eagle - Two bands of dark color protruding partially across the chest
forming a pattern resembling the eagle emblem.

Neck Area

* Collar - A white band of color encircling the neck.
* Withers Spot - A white mark varying in size but centered on the withers
or at the base of the neck.

Mismarkings

* Mismarkings - Undesirable, uneven splashings.

THOSE EXHIBITIONS…

Training
…or what is the basic preparation for an exhibition? The most important is the mental preparation. With properly socialized puppies, we don’t have to worry that our dog or a bitch will be afraid of the judges, other people or dogs, or that it will be aggressive. It is important for a dog to allow, without objections, a check of its teeth, and feel the whole body, males to have a check of the testicles and other parts of the anatomy. An aggressive dog attacking other dogs, acting disorderly in general and not wanting to show teeth will very probably be exempted from the judging. Therefore, from the earliest times we look at the dog's whole body, look at its paws, check its tummy and look at its teeth, comb it and manipulate it in various ways. Of course, a small reward can then follow. In such a way we train our little malamute to act calmly at all times, and to put up with stranger's touches. This training will then bear interest during not only dog exhibitions, but also during various visits at the veterinary.

Next, it is necessary for your malamute to be able to take up the exhibition bearing and freely trot next to its master's left leg, so that the judges can assess its movement. It is again necessary to begin training from its earliest age, even if the youngest exhibited individuals in the junior class can be forgiven a few things, of course. It is useful to visit a dog show beforehand, and with your puppy especially an intake of juniors organized by a specialized club for each given breed.

We can begin with the training of the exhibition bearing, which is based on your dog needing to look like a respectable representative of its race. Our little malamute can begin its training around the 4th month. For a short while, we will hold our puppy by its collar so that he or she stands with its head held high, legs slightly apart, fearless and with his tail held high. It should not sit down and sniff around on the ground at that time. We keep training it so that it lasts as long as possible, and at the same time it should not be upset by eventual arranging of its front or back legs. If it wants to sit down, we hold it underneath its tummy. It is useful to use the same verbal command all the time, different from all other commands. We definitely should not forget to reward our dog, it is very important for our malamute.

Walking next to your leg can be learnt during the basic training at the dog training grounds, and any male or a bitch will easily master different maneuvers eventually demanded by a judge. The basic command is therefore “Heel!“, the dog will automatically fall to your left leg, and then other commands will follow. Your malamute should trot next to your leg, and run with its head raised. You can train the basic movement in a circle, when the dog is in the inside. It should not sniff on the ground or pull you in different directions. A specific command should be used here as well, so that the dog will know next time, what is demanded of it. We should always move in such a way so that the dog is not hidden from the judge's eyes, and we could follow his or hers instructions. We can train this at home at a garden, or when taking a walk. You will be prepared then when you will find yourself at an exhibition with your dog in a circle together with other exhibitors and their dogs.

How to prepare for an exhibition
At first, check the plan of exhibitions for the whole year, published in specialized “dog” magazines, and then write, telephone or send mail with a request to send an application and plans to the exhibition office address. Please remember that this has to be done on time, since closing dates of most exhibitions are two months before their opening. Fill out the application, including the class where you want to compete, add a copy of Pedigree and together with a copy of the payment receipt send the exhibition organizer.

Going to the exhibition
Before any exhibition visit your vet, so that he or she can certify that your dog is healthy and also give you a stamp into your vaccination certificate, or from July 2004 into your dog passport. The stamp should not be older than three days. Obviously, don't go to the exhibition if your dog is in heat or sick.

A day or two before the exhibition wash and shampoo your dog, and hair-dry its rich coat with its thick base and comb it, so that the dog look its best. The shampoo should be a good quality one, and I recommend to dilute it in about 2:1 ratio with water. You can put the last touches on the coat with cosmetics for its strengthening and increasing its body. It is better not to feed the night before the exhibition, so that you don't have problems during traveling.

I assume, that traveling by car or any other means is not a novelty for your dog. Take with you the vaccination certificate with current vaccination and vet's stamp, Pedigree with efficiency certificate and the entrance permit, which you have received by mail about a week before the exhibition, and will entitle you as the owner to enter for free. Take with you also a small luggage with the dog's bowl, bottle of water for your malamute, its favorite tidbits, combs, brushes, a rag, an exhibition lead and collar, a blanket or a box for your dog, whitening powders for calluses or other cosmetics, so that you can put the final touches on your beautiful darling before it enters the show ring.

Kat + Katerina Scheufler