Alaskan Malamute Feeding Guide
How much to feed your Alaskan Malamute — daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule
A large-sized working breed from United States, the Alaskan Malamute ranks #56 with the AKC. Possesses incredible pulling strength relative to body size; a single Malamute can pull over 1,000 pounds, and teams have pulled significantly more. Bred for physically demanding tasks like guarding, hauling, and rescue, the Alaskan Malamute is a powerful large breed from the Working Group. Fueling their muscular frame requires attention to protein quality, calorie density, and joint-supporting nutrients. An adult Alaskan Malamute needs between 1627 and 1787 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.
Daily food for an adult Alaskan Malamute: 1.1–1.7 cups of high-quality dry food in two meals, budgeting $72–109/month. Puppies growing toward 75–85 lbs need three to four daily feedings until around six months old. Chondrodysplasia and polyneuropathy are breed-specific genetic concerns with available DNA tests; responsible breeders screen for both conditions before breeding.—treats count toward daily calorie intake.
Daily Calorie Needs for Alaskan Malamute
Adult
1627-1787
kcal/day
Puppy (peak)
1584
kcal/day (6-9 mo)
Senior
1183-1300
kcal/day
Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different — consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Feeding Strategy for Alaskan Malamutes
With an above-average energy level, the Alaskan Malamute benefits from a feeding plan that balances calorie intake with their active lifestyle. Two measured meals per day totaling 4.3-4.7 cups of kibble provides steady energy without the blood sugar spikes of a single large meal. Choose a formula with at least 25% protein and moderate fat to support their daily activity.
Alaskan Malamute Feeding Schedule
Morning (7-8 AM)
2.2-2.4 cups kibble
Evening (5-6 PM)
2.2-2.4 cups kibble
Split Meals
Portion Sizes by Food Type
Daily Portions for Alaskan Malamute
Based on average adult weight and activity level
| Food Type | Daily Amount | Calories | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | 4.3-4.7 cups | 1627-1787 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~380 kcal per cup |
| Wet Food | 6.5-7.1 cans | 1627-1787 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~250 kcal per 13oz can |
| Raw Diet | 24-41 oz | 1627-1787 kcal | 2 meals/day | 2-3% of body weight |
- Amount
- 4.3-4.7 cups
- Calories
- 1627-1787 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~380 kcal per cup
- Amount
- 6.5-7.1 cans
- Calories
- 1627-1787 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~250 kcal per 13oz can
- Amount
- 24-41 oz
- Calories
- 1627-1787 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
2-3% of body weight
Exercise & Feeding for Alaskan Malamutes
The Alaskan Malamute requires extensive daily exercise — typically 90+ minutes of vigorous activity. On high-activity days (hiking, running, dog sports), increase their food by 10-20% to compensate for the extra calorie burn. On rest days, stick to the baseline portion. Never feed a large meal within 30 minutes of intense exercise; instead, offer a small snack 2 hours before activity and the main meal 1 hour after.
Joint Health & Nutrition
Joint health is a primary nutritional concern for Alaskan Malamutes, which are predisposed to Hip Dysplasia and Chondrodysplasia. Diet plays a preventive and management role at every life stage. For puppies, controlled growth rate and proper calcium-phosphorus ratios protect developing joints. For adults, maintaining ideal body weight reduces mechanical stress on joints. Specific nutrients can slow cartilage degradation and reduce inflammation.
Recommended Joint Supplements
Coat & Skin Nutrition
The Alaskan Malamute's Double requires nutritional support from the inside out. Double-coated breeds undergo significant seasonal shedding (known as "blowing coat") in spring and fall, during which nutritional demands for skin and hair production increase. A diet deficient in essential fatty acids, biotin, or zinc will show in the coat quality within weeks — look for dullness, excessive shedding, or dry, flaky skin as early warning signs.
Key Nutrients for Coat Health
Thyroid Health & Diet
Hypothyroidism is a recognized concern in Alaskan Malamutes, affecting metabolism, weight, coat quality, and energy level. A Alaskan Malamute with untreated hypothyroidism may gain weight despite eating normal portions, develop a thin or dull coat, and become lethargic. If your Alaskan Malamute shows these signs, a simple blood test can confirm the diagnosis. While thyroid medication (levothyroxine) is the primary treatment, dietary support matters: ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet, maintain strict portion control to prevent weight gain, and consider a weight-management formula if your dog is on thyroid medication but still struggling with weight.
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Using a puppy formula designed for small breeds
Large and giant breed puppies need controlled calcium and phosphorus levels to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases. Always choose a large-breed puppy formula that supports slow, steady growth rather than rapid weight gain.
Not adjusting portions for activity level
An active Alaskan Malamute that runs for 2 hours burns significantly more than one that had a lazy day. Track activity and adjust portions accordingly — up to 20% more on high-activity days, 10% less on rest days.
Skipping joint supplements until problems appear
For breeds predisposed to joint issues, preventive supplementation with glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can help protect cartilage before damage occurs. Starting these supplements early — even at 1-2 years old — is more effective than waiting for symptoms.
Not providing enough water alongside increased food
Active large breeds process significant amounts of food and need plenty of fresh water. Ensure your Alaskan Malamute always has access to clean water, and consider adding water to kibble if hydration is a concern, especially after exercise.
Blaming laziness for weight gain without checking thyroid
Alaskan Malamutes are predisposed to hypothyroidism, which slows metabolism and causes weight gain even on normal portions. If your Alaskan Malamute is gaining weight despite measured feeding, ask your vet for a thyroid panel before simply cutting food.
Alaskan Malamute-Specific Feeding Tips
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Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs
Based on health conditions common in Alaskan Malamutes, consider these nutritional adjustments:
Glucosamine & Chondroitin
Add a joint supplement with glucosamine (500-1000mg) and chondroitin. Consider foods with added omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) to reduce inflammation.
Iodine & Selenium
Ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet. Weight management is important as hypothyroidism can cause weight gain.
Alaskan Malamute Ideal Weight
Assessing your Alaskan Malamute's body condition (healthy range: 75–85 lbs): Rib check: Run your hands along the ribcage—you should feel individual ribs under a slight fat layer. Overhead view: A defined waist should be visible between ribs and hips. Side profile: The abdomen should tuck upward behind the last rib. Overweight Alaskan Malamutes face higher risks of Hip Dysplasia, joint problems, and shortened lifespan.
Male Alaskan Malamute
75-85 lbs
34-39 kg
Female Alaskan Malamute
63-74 lbs
29-34 kg
Related Guides
Feeding Guides for Similar Breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer
The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.
Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.
These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.