What is the difference between a Alaskan Malamute and a Plott Hound?

The Alaskan Malamute is 75–100 lbs, 23–25 in sized while the Plott Hound is 40–60 lbs, 20–25 in sized. They differ in size (75–100 lbs, 23–25 in vs 40–60 lbs, 20–25 in), lifespan (10–14 years vs 12–14 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Alaskan Malamute or Plott Hound?

Alaskan Malamute is generally good with kids. Plott Hound is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Alaskan Malamute or Plott Hound?

The Alaskan Malamute has a lifespan of 10–14 years while the Plott Hound has a lifespan of 12–14 years.

Alaskan Malamute vs Plott Hound — Breed Comparison

About the Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is one of the oldest Arctic sled dog breeds, developed by the Mahlemut Inuit people of northwestern Alaska for hauling heavy loads across vast frozen landscapes. These powerful dogs stand 23–25 inches tall and weigh 75–100 pounds, with a sturdy, well-muscled frame built for endurance rather than speed. Their dense double coat — featuring colors like gray-and-white, sable-and-white, and all-white — is designed to withstand temperatures well below zero.

Temperament & Personality

Malamutes are friendly, affectionate, and pack-oriented — they thrive on human companionship and genuinely love being part of the family. Unlike their Husky cousins, Malamutes tend to be more calm and dignified, though they retain a playful streak well into adulthood. They are generally good with children but possess a strong prey drive toward smaller animals, and their pack mentality can lead to dominance challenges with other dogs.

Pros

Affectionate and people-oriented — they adore spending time with their family
Excellent hiking and outdoor adventure companion with remarkable endurance
Friendly disposition toward humans, including strangers
Strong work ethic makes them excel in weight-pulling and carting activities

Cons

Extreme shedding — the dense undercoat blows out twice yearly, producing massive amounts of fur
Not suited for warm climates and can overheat easily
Notorious escape artists — they can dig under or climb over fences
Prone to hip dysplasia, cataracts, and hypothyroidism

Looking for a loyal adventure partner? Check out adoptable Alaskan Malamutes on Puplister and start your journey together.

About the Plott Hound

The Plott Hound is the official state dog of North Carolina, descended from Hanoverian Schweisshunds brought to the Appalachian Mountains by German immigrant Johannes Plott in 1750. These athletic, muscular hounds stand 20 to 25 inches tall and weigh 40 to 60 pounds, built for endurance and tenacity on the trail. Their short to medium-length, glossy coat is most commonly brindle — ranging from yellow to chocolate to black brindle — though solid colors also occur.

Temperament & Personality

Plott Hounds are courageous, loyal, and determined — originally bred to track and tree bears, they possess a tenacious drive that can be both impressive and challenging. With their families, they are affectionate, eager to please, and surprisingly gentle, often forming deep bonds with their primary caretaker. They generally do well with children and other dogs, especially when raised together, though their strong prey drive means caution around cats and small animals.

Pros

Exceptional stamina and athleticism for hiking and outdoor adventures
Loyal and protective without being overly aggressive toward people
Low-maintenance coat that requires only occasional brushing
Healthier than many purebreds with a lifespan of 12 to 14 years

Cons

Loud, baying voice that carries long distances — not suited for noise-sensitive neighborhoods
Strong prey drive makes reliable off-leash recall very difficult
Can be stubborn and single-minded when tracking a scent
Requires substantial daily exercise — at least 60 minutes of vigorous activity

The Plott Hound is a hidden gem among sporting breeds — discover one looking for a forever home on Puplister.

Alaskan Malamute vs Plott Hound