Breed comparison

Alaskan Malamute vs Belgian Tervuren

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 strangers3
3Playfulness3
4Energy level4
5Trainability5
3Mental stimulation needs4
3Adaptability3
4Watchdog / protective4
3Barking3
3Shedding3
3Coat grooming2
1Drooling1

The biggest differences

These two breeds are close on every trait: no score differs by more than one point.

They score the same on affection with family, good with young children, good with other dogs, openness to strangers, playfulness, energy level.

Which one should you choose?

Pick the Alaskan Malamute if its looks and size suit you better, since the ratings are close. Pick the Belgian Tervuren if its looks and size suit you better, since the ratings are close.

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.

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