Japanese Spitz vs Alaskan Malamute

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

Japanese Spitz
Category
Alaskan Malamute

📏 Physical Stats

15 - 19
Weight (lbs)
65 - 100
12 - 15
Height (inches)
23 - 25
10 - 16 years
Life Expectancy
12 - 15 years
Non-Sporting
Breed Group
Working
Japan
Origin
Alaska
Companion
Bred For
Hauling heavy freight, Sled pulling

⚡ Temperament & Traits

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

3/5
Energy Level
3/5
4/5
Better
Trainability
3/5
5/5
Good with Children
5/5
2/5
Good with Other Dogs
5/5
Better
3/5
Better
Grooming Needs
4/5

💰 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
$1,886
Japanese Spitz
vs
Annual Cost
$3,506
Alaskan Malamute
Japanese Spitz
Expense
Alaskan Malamute
$1,886
Lower ✓
Annual Cost
$3,506
$2,606
Lower ✓
First Year
$4,226
$25,238
Lower ✓
Lifetime Total
$48,051
$336
Lower ✓
Food (annual)
$1,116
$515
Lower ✓
Vet Care (annual)
$735
$350
Lower ✓
Grooming (annual)
$550
$660
Lower ✓
Insurance (annual)
$1,080
$55
Lower ✓
Insurance (monthly)
$90

Over their lifetimes, a Japanese Spitz (~13 yrs) costs approximately $22,813 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

Japanese Spitz

Affectionate, Obedient, Playful, Companionable, Intelligent, Proud

Alaskan Malamute

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