Breed comparison

Alaskan Malamute vs Beauceron

How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.

3Affection with family3
3Good with young children3
3Good with other dogs3
3Openness to strangers2
3Playfulness3
4Energy level5
5Trainability3
3Mental stimulation needs3
3Adaptability3
4Watchdog / protective4
3Barking3
3Shedding4
3Coat grooming3
1Drooling1

The biggest differences

  • Trainability: the Alaskan Malamute scores 5 out of 5, the Beauceron 3.

They score the same on affection with family, good with young children, good with other dogs, playfulness, mental stimulation needs, adaptability.

Which one should you choose?

Pick the Alaskan Malamute if you prefer a calmer dog, you want less dog hair, you want a dog that is easier to train. Pick the Beauceron if you want an energetic exercise partner.

Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.

Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.

Newsletter

One useful dog email a week

Food safety, feeding and breed answers, checked against vet sources. Plus seasonal warnings, like holiday foods to keep away from dogs.

Free. Unsubscribe any time. We never share your email. Privacy.