Breed comparison
Alaskan Malamute vs Canaan Dog
How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.
Canaan Dog3Affection with family3
3Good with young children3
3Good with other dogs3
3Openness to strangers3
3Playfulness3
4Energy level3
5Trainability4
3Mental stimulation needs3
3Adaptability3
4Watchdog / protective4
3Barking5
3Shedding4
3Coat grooming2
1Drooling1
The biggest differences
- Barking: the Canaan Dog scores 5 out of 5, the Alaskan Malamute 3.
They score the same on affection with family, good with young children, good with other dogs, openness to strangers, playfulness, mental stimulation needs.
Which one should you choose?
Pick the Alaskan Malamute if you want an energetic exercise partner, you want less dog hair, you want a dog that is easier to train. Pick the Canaan Dog if you prefer a calmer dog.
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.