What is the difference between a Alaskan Malamute and a Treeing Walker Coonhound?

The Alaskan Malamute is 75–100 lbs, 23–25 in sized while the Treeing Walker Coonhound is 50–70 lbs, 20–27 in sized. They differ in size (75–100 lbs, 23–25 in vs 50–70 lbs, 20–27 in), lifespan (10–14 years vs 12–13 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Alaskan Malamute or Treeing Walker Coonhound?

Alaskan Malamute is generally good with kids. Treeing Walker Coonhound is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Alaskan Malamute or Treeing Walker Coonhound?

The Alaskan Malamute has a lifespan of 10–14 years while the Treeing Walker Coonhound has a lifespan of 12–13 years.

Alaskan Malamute vs Treeing Walker Coonhound — 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 Treeing Walker Coonhound

The Treeing Walker Coonhound was developed in the United States from Walker Foxhounds in the mid-20th century, selectively bred for their exceptional ability to trail game and "tree" raccoons by chasing them up a tree and baying until the hunter arrives. These elegant, athletic hounds stand 20 to 27 inches tall and weigh 50 to 70 pounds, with a lean, muscular build and the classic tricolor pattern — white, black, and tan — reminiscent of their foxhound ancestry. Their short, smooth coat is dense and protective, well-suited for long hours working through brush and rough terrain.

Temperament & Personality

Treeing Walker Coonhounds are confident, intelligent, and affable — possessing a friendly, sociable nature that makes them enjoyable companions both in the field and at home. They are gentle with children, typically welcoming to strangers, and usually get along well with other dogs, especially those they've been raised with. Their hunting instincts run deep, however, and they can switch from couch potato to tireless tracker the moment an interesting scent crosses their path.

Pros

Friendly, easygoing temperament — excellent with families and other dogs
Low-maintenance coat needing only weekly brushing
Superb endurance for hiking, running, and outdoor adventures
Generally healthy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 13 years

Cons

Extremely vocal — loud baying and howling are a defining breed trait
Powerful scent drive makes off-leash reliability very challenging
Requires substantial daily exercise — bored Walkers can be destructive
Prone to ear infections and hip dysplasia

Treeing Walker Coonhounds bring athletic grace and a sweet disposition to any home — explore available listings on Puplister.

Alaskan Malamute vs Treeing Walker Coonhound