Alaskan Malamute vs Australian Terrier

Side-by-side comparison — size, temperament, traits, costs, and health

Alaskan Malamute
Category
Australian Terrier

📏 Physical Stats

65 - 100
Weight (lbs)
14 - 16
23 - 25
Height (inches)
10 - 11
12 - 15 years
Life Expectancy
11 - 15 years
Working
Breed Group
Terrier
Alaska
Origin
Australia
Hauling heavy freight, Sled pulling
Bred For
Cattle herdering, hunting snakes and rodents

⚡ Temperament & Traits

Scores are 1–5 from breed data. Higher = more of that trait. Barking: lower is quieter.

3/5
Energy Level
4/5
Better
3/5
Trainability
5/5
Better
5/5
Good with Children
5/5
5/5
Good with Other Dogs
5/5
4/5
Better
Grooming Needs
5/5

💰 Cost of Ownership

Based on breed-specific cost data at a moderate care level — quality food, routine vet, occasional grooming, standard insurance. Actual costs vary by location and provider.

Annual Cost
$3,506
Alaskan Malamute
vs
Annual Cost
$1,796
Australian Terrier
Alaskan Malamute
Expense
Australian Terrier
$3,506
Annual Cost
$1,796
Lower ✓
$4,226
First Year
$2,516
Lower ✓
$48,051
Lifetime Total
$24,068
Lower ✓
$1,116
Food (annual)
$336
Lower ✓
$735
Vet Care (annual)
$515
Lower ✓
$550
Grooming (annual)
$440
Lower ✓
$1,080
Insurance (annual)
$480
Lower ✓
$90
Insurance (monthly)
$40
Lower ✓

Over their lifetimes, a Australian Terrier (~13 yrs) costs approximately $23,983 less than a Alaskan Malamute (~14 yrs) in total.

🏥 Health Considerations

Health conditions listed are common concerns for these breeds or breed groups. Not every dog will develop these conditions. Regular vet check-ups are the best prevention.

🐾 Temperament

Alaskan Malamute

Friendly, Affectionate, Devoted, Loyal, Dignified, Playful, Brave, Gentle, Curious, Energetic, Independent, Quiet

Australian Terrier

Spirited, Alert, Loyal, Companionable, Even Tempered, Courageous, Affectionate, Brave, Playful, Friendly, Curious, Gentle, Quiet