Side by side
Put a few breeds side by side before you make up your mind.
Pick up to four. The URL updates as you go, so you can send this comparison to whoever you are arguing with.
| Breed |  Alaskan Malamute |  Airedale Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United States (Alaska) | Developed in the 19th century in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire, England. It was bred by crossing the old English black and tan terrier with the Otterhound to create a versatile hunter capable of tackling both vermin on land and otters in the water. It later served with distinction as a messenger and guard dog in both World Wars. |
| Group | Working | Terrier |
| Size | Large | Large |
| Coat | Thick double coat in grey and white, black and white, red and white or sable | Hard, wiry and dense topcoat with a soft undercoat; black and tan or dark grizzle and tan in colour. |
| Weight | 34 to 43 kg | 18 to 29 kg |
| Height | 58 to 66 cm | 56 to 61 cm |
| Lifespan | 10 to 12 yrs | 10 to 13 yrs |
| Exercise need | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Affection | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Grooming needs | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Barking | 6/10 | 5/10 |
| Good with children | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Good with other dogs | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Trainability | 4/10 | 6/10 |
| Prey drive | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Copes alone | 4/10 | 4/10 |
| Drool | 4/10 | 2/10 |
| Shedding | 8/10 | 3/10 |
| Flat fit | 3/10 | 3/10 |
| Running cost | €139 / month | €350 / month |
Alaskan Malamute verdict
A powerful, affectionate Arctic freight dog bred to pull, that needs serious daily outlets for its strength and stamina.
Get one if
- · Active owners able to provide over an hour of exercise daily
- · Households with secure, genuinely robust garden fencing
- · Families with children wanting a good-natured, sociable dog
Think again if
- · Sedentary owners or anyone wanting a low-exercise companion
- · Flats or homes without secure outdoor space
- · Households with cats or small pets, given a strong prey drive
Airedale Terrier verdict
The King of Terriers: a courageous, versatile and large-hearted companion with a mind of its own.
Get one if
- · Active families who enjoy hiking, running and outdoor adventures
- · Owners with a large, securely fenced garden for play and exploration
- · Individuals prepared for the commitment of hand-stripping or regular professional grooming
Think again if
- · Flat or apartment dwellers without access to significant outdoor space
- · Sedentary households looking for a quiet lap dog
- · First-time owners who may struggle with terrier stubbornness and high energy