Powerful and strong, this northern dog was developed for stamina  rather than speed, unlike some of the smaller breeds

A Malamute has a thick, coarse outer coat with a dense, oily under coat.  The colors usually range from light gray to black or from sable to red.  The underbody, feet and face are white.

The head is broad and deep with large muzzle, powerful jaws and black nose. The eyes are brown, medium-size with an almond -shaped set obliquely. The ears are triangular, set wide apart and slightly rounded at the tips. The neck is very powerful, and the body is somewhat longer than the Malamute's height powerfully built with deep chest and straight back sloping down to the hindquarters.

A malamute's legs are heavy, muscular and powerful. Feet are snowshoe type, tight and deep, with thick, tough pads. The toes are set close and arched and protective hair.

The tail, which follows the line of the spine, is carried over the back when not working. It is well furred and looks like a waving plume.