West Highland White Terrier
VS
Alaskan Malamute
West Highland White Terrier vs Alaskan Malamute
Compare West Highland White Terrier and Alaskan Malamute side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
West Highland White Terrier
Alaskan Malamute
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
27 – 28 cm
58 – 64 cm
Weight
7 – 9 kg
33 – 39 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 16 years
10 – 12 years
Child friendly
5/5
3/5
Energy level
3/5
3/5
Intelligence
3/5
4/5
Trainability
3/5
3/5
Health
2/5
3/5
Grooming needs
5/5
3/5
Shedding
3/5
3/5
Barking level
4/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
3/5
4/5
Characteristics
West Highland White Terrier
Great with kids
Small
Alaskan Malamute
Super smart
Protective
Large
Summary
About West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier is a small, sturdy Scottish terrier with a harsh white coat that sheds lightly. Confident, vocal and independent yet affectionate, it suits city or country homes. Needs daily walks, mental stimulation, regular grooming and consistent, reward‑based training.
About Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is a large, powerful Arctic sled dog bred by the Mahlemut Inuit to pull heavy loads. It has a dense double coat that sheds heavily, a friendly, social nature, strong prey and working drive, high exercise needs, and can be independent and challenging to train.
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