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 will usually prevail. A short cord, but long enough for the pup to trip over, can quicken 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.

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