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Alaskan Shepherd Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Alaskan Shepherd so you can get to know the breed more.

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OriginUnited States flagUnited States Germany flagGermany
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Cross Breed Alaskan Malamute and German Shepherd mix

Alaskan Shepherd Size and Weight

Size
Is an Alaskan Shepherd small, medium or large dog?

How big do Alaskan Shepherd get?

What is the average size of an Alaskan Shepherd?

Large
Weight
How much does the Alaskan Shepherd weigh? How much should an Alaskan Shepherd weight? What is the normal weight of an Alaskan Shepherd? How much does a full-grown Alaskan Shepherd weight?
Male: 66-88 pounds (30-40 kg), Female: 49-71 pounds (22-32 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of an Alaskan Shepherd?
Male: 77 pounds (35 kg), Female: 60 pounds (27 kg)
Height
How tall is the Alaskan Shepherd? Alaskan Shepherd height:
Male: 24-26 inches (60-65 cm), Female: 22-24 inches (55-60 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of an Alaskan Shepherd?
Male: 25 inches (62.5 cm), Female: 23 inches (57.5 cm)

Alaskan Shepherd Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Alaskan Shepherd puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of an Alaskan Shepherd in the United States? How much money is an Alaskan Shepherd?

Where to buy an Alaskan Shepherd with a good pedigree?

$800-$2000
If you choose to purchase the Alaskan Shepherd, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Alaskan Shepherd for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Alaskan Shepherd gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Alaskan Shepherd? How many Alaskan Shepherd are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Alaskan Shepherd is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Alaskan Shepherd Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Alaskan Shepherd? Is the Alaskan Shepherd breed dumb or smart?
Smart: The Alaskan Shepherd dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Alaskan Shepherd is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Alaskan Shepherd dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train an Alaskan Shepherd?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Alaskan Shepherd good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Alaskan Shepherd dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Alaskan Shepherd dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Alaskan Shepherd can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Alaskan Shepherd will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Alaskan Shepherd Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Alaskan Shepherd have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
CuriousPlayfulDignifiedAlertCourageousIntelligentConfidentFriendlyAffectionateObedientLoyalDevotedWatchful
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Alaskan Shepherd sensitivity:
Sensitive: Alaskan Shepherd dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.

This breed's emotional level reflects their owner's feelings and they don't handle punishments well.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is an Alaskan Shepherd a good family dog?
Average to High: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Alaskan Shepherd need? Alaskan Shepherd social needs:
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Alaskan Shepherd to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Alaskan Shepherd roam?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Alaskan Shepherd have high prey drive?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Alaskan Shepherd dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Alaskan Shepherd Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Alaskan Shepherd is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Alaskan Shepherd dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Alaskan Shepherd bark?
Low to Average: The Alaskan Shepherd rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Alaskan Shepherd good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have an Alaskan Shepherd in an apartment?
It is not recommended to keep the Alaskan Shepherd breed in the home. It does best in the garden, but if you do want to keep it indoors, it should be exercised thoroughly with long daily walks, so you can keep the Alaskan Shepherd indoors by introducing daily routines.

Alaskan Shepherd Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can an Alaskan Shepherd be left alone? How long can you leave an Alaskan Shepherd alone?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Alaskan Shepherd Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Alaskan Shepherd has a hard bite? What is the bite force of an Alaskan Shepherd? How much bite force does an Alaskan Shepherd have? How strong is an Alaskan Shepherd bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Alaskan Shepherd bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Alaskan Shepherd measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of an Alaskan Shepherd is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Alaskan Shepherd bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Alaskan Shepherd bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train an Alaskan Shepherd puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Alaskan Shepherd, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Alaskan Shepherd bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, an Alaskan Shepherd can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Alaskan Shepherd bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Alaskan Shepherd? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Alaskan Shepherd? Why do dog bites happen?

Moderate

The Alaskan Shepherd has an average chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Alaskan Shepherd do?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Alaskan Shepherd dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Alaskan Shepherd Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Alaskan Shepherd dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Alaskan Shepherds are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Alaskan Shepherd breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Alaskan Shepherd breed? Most common health risks of Alaskan Shepherd:
Cataracts Hip Dysplasia AllergiesCancerHypothyroidismProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Von Willebrand's DiseaseBloatEpilepsyBlindnessChondrodysplasiaHemeralopiaInherited PolyneuropathyCherry EyeElbow DysplasiaDiabetesHeart DiseaseRetinal DysplasiaDemodectic MangeDegenerative MyelopathyWobbler's SyndromePanosteitisHemophilia BMegaesophagusCushing's SyndromeLens LuxationExocrine Pancreatic InsufficiencyChronic DiarrheaCruciate Ligament RuptureDigestive ProblemsHemophilia AHypertrophic OsteodystrophyLupusMyasthenia GravisNail Bed DiseaseOsteochondrosisPannusParalysisPerianal FistulaSeborrheaVitiligo
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Alaskan Shepherd breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Alaskan Shepherd see the vet?
Rare
The Alaskan Shepherd should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Alaskan Shepherd dogs live? How old can a Alaskan Shepherd be? What is the age limit of the Alaskan Shepherd? How many years can the oldest Alaskan Shepherd live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of an Alaskan Shepherd?

How long is the lifespan of an Alaskan Shepherd?

11-15 years
The average lifespan of Alaskan Shepherd: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.

Alaskan Shepherd Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Alaskan Shepherd have? What is the activity level of the Alaskan Shepherd?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does an Alaskan Shepherd need? How much exercise do Alaskan Shepherd dogs require per day?

Do Alaskan Shepherd dogs need a lot of exercises?

Alaskan Shepherd dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Alaskan Shepherd breed need?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Alaskan Shepherd Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does an Alaskan Shepherd need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does an Alaskan Shepherd breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Alaskan Shepherd? How much food should I feed my Alaskan Shepherd?
Recommended daily amount: 4 to 5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Alaskan Shepherd risk for obesity:
Average: The Alaskan Shepherd has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Alaskan Shepherd weight regularly.

Alaskan Shepherd Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Alaskan Shepherd have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
DenseRoughFuzzyThickWeather-resistant
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Alaskan Shepherd coats?
BlackGrayTan Red White Silver
Grooming
How to groom the Alaskan Shepherd and how often? How often should I take my Alaskan Shepherd to the groomer?
Average: The Alaskan Shepherd requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Alaskan Shepherd, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Alaskan Shepherd dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Alaskan Shepherd? Do Alaskan Shepherd dogs shed a lot?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are heavy shedders. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Be prepared for the daily vacuum cleaning. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Alaskan Shepherd need a bath? How often should you give an Alaskan Shepherd a bath? Can I bathe my Alaskan Shepherd every day?
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Alaskan Shepherd breed hypoallergenic?
No
Alaskan Shepherd dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Low 🔽

The Alaskan Shepherd has a low chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Alaskan Shepherd drool?
The Alaskan Shepherd is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Alaskan Shepherd could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Alaskan Shepherd.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Alaskan Shepherd Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Alaskan Shepherd dogs get along with other pets? Are Alaskan Shepherd dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Alaskan Shepherd temperament with other people:
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Alaskan Shepherd dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Alaskan Shepherd temperament with children:
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Alaskan Shepherd dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Alaskan Shepherd breed live with a cat?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Alaskan Shepherd good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Alaskan Shepherd dogs get along with other dogs?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Alaskan Shepherd can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Alaskan Shepherd breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Alaskan Shepherd breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Alaskan Shepherd dogs good office canines? Do Alaskan Shepherd dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Alaskan Shepherd is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Alaskan Shepherd dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Alaskan Shepherd temperament with senior people? Are Alaskan Shepherd dogs good for elderly owners?
Alaskan Shepherds are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Alaskan Shepherd As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Alaskan Shepherd be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Yes

This breed makes good as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Alaskan Shepherd breed is a good choice for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Alaskan Shepherd be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Alaskan Shepherd be an emotional support animal?

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Alaskan Shepherd breed is a good choice for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Alaskan Shepherd be a sniffer dog?

Yes

After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Alaskan Shepherd breed is a good choice for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Alaskan Shepherd be a search and rescue dog?

Yes

This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and in locating missing people.

The Alaskan Shepherd breed is a good choice for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Alaskan Shepherd be a boat dog?

Not really

Alaskan Shepherd breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Alaskan Shepherd be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Alaskan Shepherd is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Alaskan Shepherd dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Alaskan Shepherd Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is an Alaskan Shepherd pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Alaskan Shepherd breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Alaskan Shepherd: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Alaskan Shepherd have in a litter? How many puppies can the Alaskan Shepherd breed have for the first time? How many puppies does an Alaskan Shepherd have? How many puppies can an Alaskan Shepherd give birth to?
4-10 puppies

Alaskan Shepherd Recognition

AKC Group
Is Alaskan Shepherd recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Alaskan Shepherd recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Alaskan Shepherd Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Smart: The Alaskan Shepherd dogs have great intelligence.
  • Trainability: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are easy to train.
  • Health Issues: Alaskan Shepherds are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Alaskan Shepherd is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Stinkiness: The Alaskan Shepherd has a low chance of bad smell.
  • Watchdog Ability: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Adaptability: Alaskan Shepherd dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Alaskan Shepherds are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Service Dog: This breed makes good as a service dog.
  • Therapy Dog: This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
  • Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog: After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work.
  • Search and Rescue Dog (SAR): This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Alaskan Shepherd dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: It is not recommended to keep the Alaskan Shepherd breed in the home.
  • Shedding Level: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are heavy shedders.
  • Mouthiness: Alaskan Shepherd dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Alaskan Shepherd dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Cat Friendly: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Alaskan Shepherd is not the best dog breed for office environment.

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