Ian, a man who has been staying with us on and off for 2 years was going to have a Yellow lab last year but bought a Malamute, he loves it but has loads of problems with her, she eats anything and steals, chews everything up and howels when in season, they are going to have her spayed but the dog is not good at being off lead either and as he is away from home for long periods, I doubt his wife takes it out, hence the behaviour. People should choose a breed to suit thier life style and environment not always by looks, I love Malamutes too!!