Alaskan Malamute vs Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Which dog breed is right for you?

Alaskan Malamute

Size
75–100 lbs, 23–25 in
Lifespan
10–14 years
Exercise
Very High
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
No
Affectionate Strong Playful Enduring

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Size
50–70 lbs, 20–24 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Loyal Eager-to-please Outgoing Trainable

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 Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon was developed in the late 19th century by Dutch breeder Eduard Karel Korthals, who meticulously crossed French and German griffons, setters, spaniels, and pointers to create what he considered the "supreme gundog." These medium-sized sporting dogs stand 20 to 24 inches tall and weigh 50 to 70 pounds, with a robust build that balances power with agility. Their distinctive coat features a harsh, wiry outer layer over a dense, water-resistant undercoat — typically in steel gray with brown markings, though roan, brown, and white and brown patterns also occur.

Temperament & Personality

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are eager, devoted, and remarkably trainable — often called the "supreme gundog" not just for their versatile field skills but for their cooperative, people-focused temperament. They are gentle and patient with children, friendly with other dogs, and form strong bonds with every family member rather than fixating on a single person. Their enthusiasm for both work and play, combined with a gentle disposition, makes them outstanding all-around family companions for active households.

Pros

  • Versatile sporting dog — points, retrieves, and works in water and thick cover equally well
  • Low-shedding wiry coat suitable for allergy-conscious owners
  • Devoted and affectionate family dog with a gentle, trainable nature
  • Adaptable and eager to please — excels in multiple canine sports and disciplines

Cons

  • High exercise requirements — needs vigorous daily activity and mental stimulation
  • Coat requires regular hand-stripping or professional grooming to maintain texture
  • Can become anxious, clingy, or destructive without adequate exercise and companionship
  • Prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and ear infections

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a rare treasure among sporting breeds — see if one is available on Puplister.

Available for Adoption

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Alaskan Malamute and a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon?
The Alaskan Malamute is 75–100 lbs, 23–25 in sized while the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is 50–70 lbs, 20–24 in sized. They differ in size (75–100 lbs, 23–25 in vs 50–70 lbs, 20–24 in), lifespan (10–14 years vs 12–15 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Alaskan Malamute or Wirehaired Pointing Griffon?
Alaskan Malamute is generally good with kids. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Alaskan Malamute or Wirehaired Pointing Griffon?
The Alaskan Malamute has a lifespan of 10–14 years while the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon has a lifespan of 12–15 years.

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