This site is to help guide you if you're thinking of purchasing an Alaskan Malamute.

*BEWARE OF BACKYARD BREEDERS*

Before you buy an Alaskan Malamute, there are some important things you need to establish about the breeder and their dog/s to ensure the puppy you buy is purebred and has minimal risk of developing hereditary health disorders.

Dedicated breeders are trying to eradicate hereditary diseases by screening their dogs before using them for breeding, ensuring that the puppies they produce are as healthy as possible.

Some diseases can't be tested for, so a dedicated breeder will research the dogs in their pedigrees to ensure they aren't effected with any serious diseases.

* Is the breeder registered with your state's Canine Control Club?

(With personal membership card available for viewing). 

 
* Are they a member of any affiliated Breed Clubs? 
 

* Ask how long they've been involved in the breed, why they bred the litter and if they do any activities with their dogs such as conformation showing, competitive sledding or obedience, or therapy work etc. 

 
* Have both parents of the litter had appropriate health clearances to ensure they are suitable for breeding, with the proper certificates (for BOTH parents) available for viewing. 

 
* Ask to view pedigree papers of both parents of the litter (to establish the litter is actually purebred). 

 
* If the sire of the litter isn't on site, are his owners happy for you to meet him? Or does the breeder have extensive information about him to give you? i.e. health certificates, photos, copy of his pedigree etc.

 * Does the breeder have more than 1 or 2 litters on the ground at the one time? Do they have more than 2 different breeds that they are producing pups from? If so, then it's likely that their motivation for breeding is for profit.

* Does the breeder offer some form of written money back or replacement guarantee in the event of the puppy developing a hereditary disorder? 

 
* Can the breeder show you health clearances for the dogs in the litter's pedigree? 

 
* Does the breeder have an information pack to give you, including a copy of the breed standard, in depth information about Alaskan Malamutes as well as dietary and exercise advice for you to study? 

 
* Will the breeder be available to help you raise the puppy and give you advice and support for the entirety of the dog's life? 

 
* Is the breeder asking YOU questions about your facilities, i.e. fencing and housing for the puppy, your lifestyle, and if an Alaskan Malamute is the appropriate breed for you etc 

... or are they happy to just take your money? 

 
* If things don't work out with the puppy, will the breeder take the dog back and/or help find a new home for it? 

 
* The breeder should NOT allow you to take the puppy home with you till it is at least 8 weeks of age. The puppy should also come with proof of micro-chipping, vet check certificate, vaccinations and intestinal worming.

* Remember, you are adding a new member to your family for the next 10-14 years. NOW IS NOT THE TIME TO BARGAIN HUNT!! Prepare to spend at least $800-$1000 or more for a well bred puppy.