Like everyone else has said, as far as Huskies and Malamutes are concerned, I truly hope what you realize you're getting yourself into. Both are 'primitive' Northern breeds, and were bred mainly for one thing -- to pull sleds for miles and miles without getting tired. They have monstrous amounts of endurance and engery, so plan on a few daily walks, constant play sessions, and something to keep the dog busy like training classes or maybe a running/jogging partner.
Both breeds are loyal, but the Malamutes tend to be more relaxed and easy-going. They're also somewhat easier to train and aren't so spaztic. But they ARE larger than Huskies, and as such, will shed in greater amounts.
On that note, BUY A GOOD VACUUM. Also plan on buying an assortment of brushes to keep their coat clean and healthy.
I'm also all for adoption. I forget who said they had a bad experience with one, and I'm truly sorry for their loss -- but you should ALWAYS make sure to get a CURRENT copy of the adopted dog's medical record before you actually take the dog home. When I adopted my puppy, I not only had a copy of her medical records from the shelter's vet -- but I called the vet and double-checked everything. It can never, never hurt to be too safe. It's also a better move to adopt from an official rescue organization, rather than a shelter (such as an SPCA). Rescues are MUCH more organized and tend to have much more info on their dogs. Also, any place that requires an application and has a higher adoption fee is a very good sign -- the adoption fee is high to cover their vet bills (which means the dog has been cared for), and the application fee is to ensure a good home.
There's always wonderful dogs out there that need a home, so please seriously considering contacting some of your local rescues about either breed. And even if the nearby rescues don't have anything, they can usually contact 'outside' organizations -- they might have the perfect dog.
If you do look into adoption, you might want to consider having the Husky/Malamute mixed with a lil' something else. Having another breed(s) thrown into the mix often helps to make the dog even more mellow, and a lot of the times, the dog comes out with the best features of whatever breeds it's mixed of.
MikeAwesome42 said:
no one has talked about german shepards yet...i grew up with a half german shepard half husky mix, and i loved it. they are easy dogs to train, and are extremely friendly.
My dog is a German Shepherd/Some Northern Breed mix, and she's an absolute love. She's incredibly sweet, smart, and docile. I'm beyond blessed to have found her.
Good luck with whatever you try!
We eventually sent her back up north to live with friends because she just wasn't happy in the city; she was 16 or 17 when she finally passed away.
