Malanees
The Malanees is a cross between the Alaskan Malamute and the Great Pyrenees. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Malanees. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a powerfully built, substantial dog designed for strength and endurance rather than speed. Males typically stand around 25 inches at the shoulder and weigh approximately 85 pounds, while females measure about 23 inches and weigh around 75 pounds, though natural size variation exists within the breed. The body is compactly built with heavy bone, well-muscled throughout, and slightly longer than tall. These dogs present an impressive picture of substance and power, with a proud carriage that reflects their heritage as the premier freight-hauling sled dogs of the Arctic. The chest is deep and well-developed, providing ample room for heart and lungs essential for sustained exertion. The breed features a thick, coarse double coat that serves as essential protection against extreme cold. The outer guard coat is straight and stands somewhat off the body, while the dense, woolly undercoat can be one to two inches deep. Coat colors include various shades of gray, black, sable, and red, always with white on the underbody, parts of the legs, feet, and face. White facial markings, including a blaze, cap, or mask pattern, are characteristic of the breed and add to their striking appearance. The coat is shortest on the face and longest around the neck, shoulders, back, and tail, creating a pronounced ruff particularly noticeable in males. The broad head with erect, triangular ears is proportionate to the body and gives the Malamute an alert, intelligent expression. Eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and brown in color, set obliquely in the skull with a soft, interested look. Blue eyes are a disqualifying fault in the breed standard. The muzzle is large and bulky, neither pointed nor overly long, with a black or brown nose depending on coat color. The plumed tail is well-furred and carried over the back in a gentle curl when the dog is not working. Strong, well-padded feet with arched toes and thick pads provide traction on snow and ice. The powerful rear legs provide the drive necessary for hauling heavy loads. The overall impression is of tremendous strength combined with a dignified, wolf-like appearance that commands respect.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Malamutes have significant exercise requirements and thrive when given a job to do. They excel at sledding, weight pulling, hiking, and other activities that engage their working heritage. Without adequate physical and mental stimulation, they may become destructive or develop undesirable behaviors such as excessive digging or howling. They can be aggressive toward unfamiliar dogs, particularly those of the same sex, a trait stemming from their pack hierarchy instincts. Proper socialization can mitigate but not eliminate this tendency. Their strong prey drive makes them potentially unsuitable for homes with small animals. Despite their challenges, a well-exercised, well-trained Malamute is a magnificent companion for active families.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Chondrodysplasia, a form of dwarfism, can occur in Malamute lines and affects skeletal development. Genetic testing is available to identify carriers, and responsible breeders screen their dogs to avoid producing affected puppies. Eye conditions are also present in the breed, including day blindness, which causes sensitivity to bright light and difficulty seeing in daylight conditions, and cataracts, which cloud the lens of the eye. Progressive retinal atrophy, leading to eventual blindness, has been documented in some lines. Regular eye examinations help detect problems early. Gastric dilatation-volvulus, or bloat, can affect deep-chested breeds like the Malamute and requires emergency treatment. The breed's average lifespan is 10 to 14 years with proper care.
Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a majestic giant breed that conveys an impression of elegance combined with immense size and power. Males stand between 27 and 32 inches at the shoulder and weigh approximately 100 pounds or more, while females range from 25 to 29 inches and weigh around 85 pounds and up. Despite their substantial size, these dogs are not overly heavy or bulky but rather possess medium substance with sufficient bone and muscle to create a balanced frame. The body is slightly longer than tall, well-proportioned, and built for the strenuous work of guarding flocks on steep mountain slopes. The weather-resistant double coat is one of the breed's most striking features. The outer coat is long, flat, and thick, composed of coarse hair that may be straight or slightly wavy. Beneath lies a dense, fine, woolly undercoat that provides insulation against extreme temperatures. The coat is most profuse around the neck and shoulders, forming a distinctive mane or ruff that is more pronounced in males. Longer hair on the tail creates an elegant plume, while feathering along the back of the legs produces a pantaloon effect. The primary color is white, though markings of gray, badger, reddish brown, or varying shades of tan may appear on the ears, head, tail, and occasionally as body spots. The head is wedge-shaped with a slightly rounded crown and is not heavy in proportion to the body. The expression is elegant, intelligent, and contemplative. Medium-sized, almond-shaped eyes are rich dark brown with close-fitting black rims. Small to medium V-shaped ears with rounded tips are set at eye level and carried low and close to the head. The muzzle is broad with a black nose. Double dewclaws on the rear legs are a breed requirement and should not be removed. The plumed tail reaches at least to the hocks and may be carried low in repose or curled over the back when the dog is alert.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament The breed's protective nature means they can be reserved or suspicious around strangers, making early and ongoing socialization essential. They tend to bark frequently, particularly at night when their guardian instincts are most active, which can be challenging in residential settings. Great Pyrenees require moderate exercise and enjoy daily walks, though they are not high-energy dogs. They may wander if given the opportunity, as patrolling their territory comes naturally to them. Secure fencing is essential. These dogs do best with owners who understand and appreciate their independent nature while providing firm, loving guidance.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive neurological condition affecting the spinal cord, causing weakness and eventual paralysis in the hind legs. Genetic testing can identify dogs carrying the associated mutation. Neuronal degeneration is an inherited disorder specific to Great Pyrenees that affects the nervous system in young dogs, causing mobility issues and coordination problems. Chondrodysplasia, a form of dwarfism, also occurs in the breed and can be detected through genetic testing. Eye conditions including cataracts, entropion, and progressive retinal atrophy require monitoring through regular examinations. Von Willebrand's disease, a blood clotting disorder, and glomerulonephropathy, an inherited kidney disease, are additional concerns. The breed's average lifespan is 10 to 12 years.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Malanees may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Alaskan Malamute and Great Pyrenees to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.