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Alaskan Shepherd Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Alaskan Shepherd so you can get to know the breed more.

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OriginUnited States flagUnited States Germany flagGermany
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is an Alaskan Shepherd? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Cross Breed Alaskan Malamute and German Shepherd mix

Alaskan Shepherd Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is an Alaskan Shepherd? Learn how big the Alaskan Shepherd breed typically grows.
Large
Weight Statistics
How much does an Alaskan Shepherd weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Alaskan Shepherd breed.
Male: 66-88 pounds (30-40 kg), Female: 49-71 pounds (22-32 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of an Alaskan Shepherd?
Male: 77 pounds (35 kg), Female: 60 pounds (27 kg)
Height
How tall is the Alaskan Shepherd? Alaskan Shepherd height:
Male: 24-26 inches (60-65 cm), Female: 22-24 inches (55-60 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of an Alaskan Shepherd?
Male: 25 inches (62.5 cm), Female: 23 inches (57.5 cm)

Alaskan Shepherd Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does an Alaskan Shepherd puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Alaskan Shepherd costs.
$800-$2000
If you choose to purchase the Alaskan Shepherd, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Alaskan Shepherd for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Alaskan Shepherd gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Alaskan Shepherd? How many Alaskan Shepherd are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Alaskan Shepherd is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Alaskan Shepherd Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is an Alaskan Shepherd? Discover the Alaskan Shepherd's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Smart: The Alaskan Shepherd dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Alaskan Shepherd is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train an Alaskan Shepherd? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's trainability and response to training methods.
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Rating
How good is an Alaskan Shepherd as a watchdog? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's alertness and guarding instincts.
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Alaskan Shepherd dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Territorial Protection
Is an Alaskan Shepherd protective of its territory? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's guarding instincts and behavior.
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Alaskan Shepherd can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Alaskan Shepherd will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Alaskan Shepherd Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does an Alaskan Shepherd have? Learn about characteristic Alaskan Shepherd temperament and behavior traits.
CuriousPlayfulDignifiedAlertCourageousIntelligentConfidentFriendlyAffectionateObedientLoyalDevotedWatchful
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Alaskan Shepherd sensitivity:
Sensitive: Alaskan Shepherd dogs don't like an irregular daily routine, noisy household, and frequent guest visits.

This breed's emotional level reflects their owner's feelings and they don't handle punishments well.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is an Alaskan Shepherd a good family dog?
Average to High: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Alaskan Shepherd need? Alaskan Shepherd social needs:
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Alaskan Shepherd to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Alaskan Shepherd roam?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Alaskan Shepherd have high prey drive?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Alaskan Shepherd dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Alaskan Shepherd Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does an Alaskan Shepherd bark a lot? Learn about typical Alaskan Shepherd vocalization patterns and triggers.
Low to Average: The Alaskan Shepherd rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is an Alaskan Shepherd? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Alaskan Shepherd breed.
The Alaskan Shepherd is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Apartment Adaptability
Can an Alaskan Shepherd live in an apartment? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's suitability for apartment living.
It is not recommended to keep the Alaskan Shepherd breed in the home. It does best in the garden, but if you do want to keep it indoors, it should be exercised thoroughly with long daily walks, so you can keep the Alaskan Shepherd indoors by introducing daily routines.

Alaskan Shepherd Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is an Alaskan Shepherd to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's flexibility to new situations.
Alaskan Shepherd dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can an Alaskan Shepherd be left alone? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's tolerance to solitude.
Alaskan Shepherd dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Alaskan Shepherd Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is an Alaskan Shepherd biting potential? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's bite risk factors.

Moderate

The Alaskan Shepherd has an average chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is an Alaskan Shepherd mouthy? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's tendency to use mouth during play.
Alaskan Shepherd dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Alaskan Shepherd dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is an Alaskan Shepherd bite? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Alaskan Shepherd bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Alaskan Shepherd measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of an Alaskan Shepherd is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Alaskan Shepherd bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Alaskan Shepherd bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train an Alaskan Shepherd puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Alaskan Shepherd, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Alaskan Shepherd bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, an Alaskan Shepherd can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Alaskan Shepherd Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does an Alaskan Shepherd live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Alaskan Shepherd breed.
11-15 years
The average lifespan of Alaskan Shepherd: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does an Alaskan Shepherd handle different weather? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's climate adaptability.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in an Alaskan Shepherd? Discover typical conditions affecting the Alaskan Shepherd breed.
Alaskan Shepherds are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does an Alaskan Shepherd need vet visits? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's veterinary care requirements.
Rare
The Alaskan Shepherd should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Alaskan Shepherd breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Alaskan Shepherd breed? Most common health risks of Alaskan Shepherd:
Cataracts Hip Dysplasia AllergiesCancerHypothyroidismProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Von Willebrand's DiseaseBloatEpilepsyBlindnessChondrodysplasiaHemeralopiaInherited PolyneuropathyCherry EyeElbow DysplasiaDiabetesHeart DiseaseRetinal DysplasiaDemodectic MangeDegenerative MyelopathyWobbler's SyndromePanosteitisHemophilia BMegaesophagusCushing's SyndromeLens LuxationExocrine Pancreatic InsufficiencyChronic DiarrheaCruciate Ligament RuptureDigestive ProblemsHemophilia AHypertrophic OsteodystrophyLupusMyasthenia GravisNail Bed DiseaseOsteochondrosisPannusParalysisPerianal FistulaSeborrheaVitiligo

Alaskan Shepherd Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is an Alaskan Shepherd? Understand daily activity needs of the Alaskan Shepherd breed.
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does an Alaskan Shepherd need? How much exercise do Alaskan Shepherd dogs require per day?

Do Alaskan Shepherd dogs need a lot of exercises?

Alaskan Shepherd dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Alaskan Shepherd breed need?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Alaskan Shepherd Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is an Alaskan Shepherd prone to weight gain? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's obesity risks.
Average: The Alaskan Shepherd has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Alaskan Shepherd weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does an Alaskan Shepherd need daily? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's feeding requirements.
Recommended daily amount: 4 to 5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Alaskan Shepherd Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is an Alaskan Shepherd hypoallergenic? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Alaskan Shepherd dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does an Alaskan Shepherd come in? Discover all possible Alaskan Shepherd color variations.
BlackGrayTan Red White Silver
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does an Alaskan Shepherd need? Learn about Alaskan Shepherd coat maintenance requirements.
Average: The Alaskan Shepherd requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Alaskan Shepherd, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Drooling Tendency
Does an Alaskan Shepherd drool a lot? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's drooling habits.
The Alaskan Shepherd is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Alaskan Shepherd could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Alaskan Shepherd.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does an Alaskan Shepherd smell bad? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's natural odor levels.

Low 🔽

The Alaskan Shepherd has a low chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does an Alaskan Shepherd have? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's fur characteristics.
DenseRoughFuzzyThickWeather-resistant
Bathing Needs
How often does an Alaskan Shepherd need baths? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's bathing requirements.
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Shedding Level
How much do Alaskan Shepherd dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Alaskan Shepherd? Do Alaskan Shepherd dogs shed a lot?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are heavy shedders. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Be prepared for the daily vacuum cleaning. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type.

Alaskan Shepherd Good With

Child Compatibility
Is an Alaskan Shepherd good with children? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's behavior around kids of different ages.
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does an Alaskan Shepherd get along with other pets? Discover the Alaskan Shepherd's compatibility with other animals.
Alaskan Shepherd dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Alaskan Shepherd temperament with other people:
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
How well do Alaskan Shepherd dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Alaskan Shepherd breed live with a cat?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Alaskan Shepherd good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Alaskan Shepherd dogs get along with other dogs?
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Alaskan Shepherd can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Alaskan Shepherd breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Alaskan Shepherd breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Alaskan Shepherd dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Alaskan Shepherd dogs good office canines? Do Alaskan Shepherd dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Alaskan Shepherd is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Alaskan Shepherd dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Alaskan Shepherd temperament with senior people? Are Alaskan Shepherd dogs good for elderly owners?
Alaskan Shepherds are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Alaskan Shepherd As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can an Alaskan Shepherd be a service dog? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's service work potential.

Yes

This breed makes good as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Alaskan Shepherd breed is a good choice for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is an Alaskan Shepherd good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's therapy work aptitude.

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Alaskan Shepherd breed is a good choice for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is an Alaskan Shepherd good at detection work? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's scenting abilities.

Yes

After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Alaskan Shepherd breed is a good choice for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can an Alaskan Shepherd do search and rescue? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's SAR capabilities.

Yes

This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and in locating missing people.

The Alaskan Shepherd breed is a good choice for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is an Alaskan Shepherd good on boats? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Alaskan Shepherd breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can an Alaskan Shepherd pull carts? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Alaskan Shepherd is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was an Alaskan Shepherd used in military service? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Alaskan Shepherd Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does an Alaskan Shepherd usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
4-10 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is an Alaskan Shepherd pregnant? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Alaskan Shepherd: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can an Alaskan Shepherd have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Alaskan Shepherd Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is an Alaskan Shepherd in? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is an Alaskan Shepherd in? Learn about the Alaskan Shepherd's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.

Alaskan Shepherd Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligence Rating: Smart: The Alaskan Shepherd dogs have great intelligence.
  • Training Difficulty: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are easy to train.
  • Health Concerns: Alaskan Shepherds are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Alaskan Shepherd is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Stinkiness Rating: The Alaskan Shepherd has a low chance of bad smell.
  • Watchdog Rating: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Alaskan Shepherd dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Child Compatibility: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Alaskan Shepherds are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Service Dog Capability: This breed makes good as a service dog.
  • Therapy Work Suitability: This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
  • Scent Detection Ability: After proper training, they can excel at this kind of work.
  • Search & Rescue Potential: This breed would make an excellent search and rescue dog.
Cons
  • Allergy Friendliness: Alaskan Shepherd dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Adaptability: It is not recommended to keep the Alaskan Shepherd breed in the home.
  • Shedding Level: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are heavy shedders.
  • Mouthing Tendency: Alaskan Shepherd dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: Alaskan Shepherd dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Cat Friendly: Alaskan Shepherd dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Alaskan Shepherd is not the best dog breed for office environment.

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