My Malamute Wont Talk

Question
My family and i rescued our Alaskan Malamute, Bob, about 5 years ago from a shelter that rescued many sled dogs from a nice old lady who became overwhelmed with her husband's sled dogs after he passed away. I've read that malamutes are very vocal dogs, however, Bob absolutely won't "speak". We've tried encouraging him, socializing him, and i often let him hear wolves and other dog sounds i can find on the internet. Bob only verbally expresses himself if he's left outside while we sleep, which we don't do anymore. Is it possible that a dog could be almost mute? Please help and thank you! :)

Answer

Hi Joanna,

Within any breed, there are a wide variety of differences, not all Malamutes are vocal just as not all Pit Bulls are vicious. It doesn't sound like Bob is mute, since you've noted he's perfectly capable of making noise when you leave him outside when you sleep. But if you are concerned, you should have your vet examine him.

Maybe Bob was trained when he was young not to make noise, or maybe he just doesn't feel the need to make noise. In either case, there are lots and LOTS of people who wish they could get their dogs not to bark!

Love Bob for being the individual he is.

Best of luck,

Patti