Which is Better Between the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever?

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Alaskan Malamute Versus Golden Cocker Retriever: Introduction

Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever? Well, you have come to the right place. Because in this article, we will provide you with a detailed comparison of these two dog breeds to help you decide which of the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever better suits you.

We will provide you a detailed discussion and comparison of dog attributes such as intelligence, price, general health, friendliness, etc, for both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever.

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever is better suited for new dog owners, for owners with kids, for owners that live in apartments, for owners with dog allergies, etc.

Importantly, we did some analysis and calculation and we obtained a number that we call the Better-Pet Score™ for both the Alaskan Malamute and for the Golden Cocker Retriever. The dog breed with the higher Better-Pet score is the `better` pet. We hope that these Better-Pet Scores will provide you with more insight into deciding which pet to get between the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever.

Our only goal here is to help you make a well-thought-out decision on your next long-term companion, be it the Alaskan Malamute or the Golden Cocker Retriever.

Alaskan Malamute versus Golden Cocker Retriever: Overview

A very important difference between the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever is the size difference between the two dog breeds. The Alaskan Malamute is a large-sized dog while the Golden Cocker Retriever is a medium-sized dog.

Furthermore, the Alaskan Malamute belongs to the Working Dogs group. Working Dogs were developed to assist humans in some capacity – including pulling sleds and carts, guarding flocks, guarding homes, and protecting their families. Breeds in the Working Group are known for their imposing stature, strength, intelligence, and fearless. Because of their size and strength, working dogs require a structured home life and firm, fair, consistent training by someone who can provide leadership without resorting to anger or physical force.

On the other hand, the Golden Cocker Retriever belongs to the Mixed Breed Dogs group. Mixed Breed Dogs are not purebred dogs.

Alaskan Malamute versus Golden Cocker Retriever: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Alaskan Malamute to the Golden Cocker Retriever based on different important factors such as Price, Health, Kid-friendliness, etc.

When a dog breed scores higher for a factor than the other dog breed, the box of the breed that scores higher is shaded green and the box of the breed that scores lower is shaded red. When there is no difference between the breeds for a particular factor then the box is shaded gray for both pets. Also, when the factor is not important in picking a pet, or when the factor cannot be compared between two pets, the box for the factor is shaded gray for both pets

Most of the factors in the table for each dog breed are ranked on a scale of 1 to 5. “1” means “worst”, and “5” means “best”.

However, some factors such as “Price”, “Average Lifespan”, etc. cannot be on a scale of 1 to 5, so they are not on a scale of 1 to 5 in the comparison table.

Later in this article, we will further explain each factor as it applies to the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever

Factor Alaskan Malamute Golden Cocker Retriever
Adapts Well To Apartment Living 1/5 1/5
Good For Novice Owners 1/5 4/5
Tolerates Being Alone 1/5 1/5
Does NOT Drool 5/5 5/5
Easy To Groom 1/5 4/5
Height 1 foot, 11 inches to 2 feet, 1 inch tall at the sh 20 to 24 inches
Life Span 12 to 15 years 12 to 15 years
Tolerates Hot Weather 2/5 4/5
Dog Friendly 2/5 4/5
Kid-Friendly 3/5 4/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight 3/5 2/5
Does NOT chew on things 3/5 4/5
Easygoing 2/5 2/5
Affectionate With Family 4/5 5/5
General Health 4/5 4/5
Easy To Train 4/5 4/5
Intelligence 4/5 4/5
Low Prey Drive 2/5 4/5
Tolerates Cold Weather 5/5 2/5
Friendly Toward Strangers 5/5 3/5
Does NOT Shed 1/5 2/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl 1/5 3/5
Tendency NOT to Wander 1/5 2/5
NOT Rambunctious 1/5 1/5
Calmness/ Low Vigor 1/5 4/5
Minimal Exercise Needs 1/5 2/5
Potential For Playfulness 5/5 5/5
Weight 75 to 100 pounds 30 to 45 pounds
Average Lifespan 13.5 years 13.5 years
Average Price $1580 $1830
Price Range $950 – $2000 $1450 – $2000
Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests
  • Autoimmune thyroiditis
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Eye Examination
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • POLYNEUROPATHY
    		•  No Data

    Next, we added the scores of the factors that can be added together for the Alaskan Malamute in the table (that is, `Ease of Grooming` score + `General Health` score + `Calmness` score + …etc) and we compared it to the corresponding total score for the Golden Cocker Retriever. We call these total scores the Better-Pet Scores, as we mentioned earlier. We called this score the Better-Pet score because the better dog breed will have a higher score. This is because the pet will the higher score will have minimal needs and be easier to have as a pet.

    The Better-Pet score for the Alaskan Malamute is 63 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Golden Cocker Retriever is 80 out of 125.

    Based on their Better-Pet scores, the Golden Cocker Retriever is a better pet than the Alaskan Malamute. So, you should get the Golden Cocker Retriever!

    Although we have done our best to analyze these two dog breeds in a very unbiased way, however, we will like to let you know that there are some dog attributes that cannot be assigned a number for comparison. We cannot put a number on how cute a dog breed is, for example. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

    Also, the dog breed that best suits you will depend on your peculiar lifestyle, your taste, and your priorities, which we do not know. So, for you to decide on which breed is right for you, read through the rest of the article to further understand both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever so that you can make your own well-informed decision on which pet to get.

    The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever

    Below is a list of where the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever are most different:

    • Alaskan Malamutes are not the best dogs for new dog owners. However, Golden Cocker Retrievers are good for new dog owners.
    • Alaskan Malamutes require a lot of grooming and are not very easy to groom. However, Golden Cocker Retrievers are very easy to groom.
    • Alaskan Malamutes can tolerate cold weather. However, Golden Cocker Retrievers cannot tolerate cold weather. They are vulnerable to the cold.
    • Alaskan Malamutes do things with high intensity. They can be very forceful. However, Golden Cocker Retrievers do the things they do with very low vigor. They are not forceful.

    The Similarities Between the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever

    The Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever are very similar in certain aspects. Below is the list of where the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever are most similar:

    • Both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever do not adapt well to apartment living.
    • Both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever do not like to be left alone.
    • Both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever do not have the tendency to drool.
    • Both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever are easily disturbed by noise in their environments. They are sensitive to human tone. They will understand the tone of your voice when you try to correct their behaviors with a firm tone.
    • Both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
    • Both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever are very healthy. They do not suffer from a lot of health problems compared to other dog breeds
    • Both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever are very easy to train.
    • Both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever are highly intelligent.
    • Both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.
    • Both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever have a high tendency to wander. They are easily distracted by other animals or objects.
    • Both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever have very high energy levels. They need a lot of exercise time to release their high energy.
    • Both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever require a lot of exercise. They are good for owners who like to exercise.
    • Both the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever are very playful.

    Size Comparison of Alaskan Malamute versus Golden Cocker Retriever

    Now, let us discuss the difference in size between the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever.

    Alaskan Malamutes weigh 75 to 100 pounds when fully grown. Alaskan Malamutes are 1 foot, 11 inches to 2 feet, 1 inch tall at the sh when fully grown.

    On the other hand, Golden Cocker Retrievers weigh 30 to 45 pounds when fully grown. Golden Cocker Retrievers are 20 to 24 inches when fully grown.

    Lifespan of Alaskan Malamute versus Golden Cocker Retriever

    The lifespan of Alaskan Malamutes is between 12 to 15 years. The average lifespan of Alaskan Malamutes is 13.5 years.

    The lifespan of Golden Cocker Retrievers is between 12 to 15 years. The average lifespan of Golden Cocker Retrievers is 13.5 years.

    Price of Alaskan Malamute versus Price of Golden Cocker Retriever

    The average price of the Alaskan Malamute puppy is $1580. The price of the Alaskan Malamute typically ranges from $950 – $2000. We obtained this price information by reviewing the prices of 199 Alaskan Malamute puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The average price of the Golden Cocker Retriever puppy is $1830. The price of the Golden Cocker Retriever typically ranges from $1450 – $2000. We obtained this price information by collecting and reviewing the prices of 25 Golden Cocker Retriever puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The Golden Cocker Retriever is more expensive than the Alaskan Malamute.

    The charts below show the price distribution for the Alaskan Malamute and Golden Cocker Retriever. For different price points, the charts show how many Alaskan Malamute puppies or how many Golden Cocker Retriever puppies are listed for sale at those price points.

    A breakdown of the prices of Alaskan Malamutes. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Alaskan Malamutes. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Golden Cocker Retrievers

    A breakdown of the prices of Golden Cocker Retrievers

    Note that a lot of factors determine how much you can expect to pay for the Alaskan Malamute puppy or the Golden Cocker Retriever puppy. This includes if health screening tests have been performed on the puppy, if the puppy is from a famous pedigree, the US State where the puppy is bred, etc.

    Nevertheless, when looking to buy a puppy, look at buying a puppy only from well-established breeders that breed puppies primarily for the love of dogs, and secondarily for profit. Do not buy a puppy from a puppy mill. Puppy mills mass-produce puppies in bad living conditions for maximum profit.

    You may also consider adopting a dog instead of buying a dog.

    Tolerates Being Alone: Alaskan Malamute versus Golden Cocker Retriever

    Alaskan Malamutes do not like to be left alone.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers do not like to be left alone.

    Do Alaskan Malamutes shed more than Golden Cocker Retrievers?

    Alaskan Malamutes shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.

    Which one drools more, the Alaskan Malamute or the Golden Cocker Retriever

    Alaskan Malamutes do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Which is Easier to Groom, the Alaskan Malamute or the Golden Cocker Retriever?

    Alaskan Malamutes require a lot of grooming and they are not very easy to groom.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers are very easy to groom.

    Does the Alaskan Malamute Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Golden Cocker Retriever?

    Alaskan Malamutes have a high prey drive. They have the tendency to chase after smaller animals and pets. They do not get along well with other pets.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers have a very low prey drive. This means they get won`t chase after smaller pets. They tend to get along well with other pets.

    Do Alaskan Malamutes Bark and Howl? What about Golden Cocker Retrievers?

    Alaskan Malamutes are highly vocal. They have the tendency to bark and howl.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers bark and howl, but not very much.

    Can Alaskan Malamutes Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Golden Cocker Retrievers Tolerate Cold Weather?

    Alaskan Malamutes can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers cannot tolerate cold weather. They are vulnerable to the cold.

    Wanderlust Potential: Alaskan Malamute vs. Golden Cocker Retriever

    Alaskan Malamutes have a high tendency to wander. They are easily distracted by other animals or objects.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers have a high tendency to wander. They are easily distracted by other animals or objects.

    Can Alaskan Malamutes Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Golden Cocker Retrievers Tolerate Hot Weather?

    Alaskan Malamutes cannot tolerate hot weather. They are not suited for hot environments.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers can tolerate hot weather.

    Which Dog Breed is more Dog-Friendly, the Alaskan Malamute or the Golden Cocker Retriever?

    Alaskan Malamutes do not get along well with other dogs.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers get along very well with other dogs.

    Are Alaskan Malamutes good family dogs? What about Golden Cocker Retrievers?

    Alaskan Malamutes are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    How Kid-friendly are Alaskan Malamutes and Golden Cocker Retrievers?

    Alaskan Malamutes get along fairly well with kids. They are quite kid-friendly.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Is the Alaskan Malamute Easier to Train than the Golden Cocker Retriever?

    Alaskan Malamutes are very easy to train.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers are very easy to train.

    Is the Alaskan Malamute Better for Apartment Owners than the Golden Cocker Retriever?

    Alaskan Malamutes do not adapt well to apartment living.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers do not adapt well to apartment living.

    Which is Better for New Dog Owners, the Alaskan Malamute or the Golden Cocker Retriever?

    Alaskan Malamutes are not the best dogs for new dog owners.

    Golden Cocker Retrievers are very good for new dog owners.

    Conclusion: Alaskan Malamute versus Golden Cocker Retriever. Which One is a Better Pet?

    In summary, there is nothing like a better dog breed or a worse dog breed. The important question to ask is which dog breed better matches your interests and lifestyle. We hope our discussion above will help you in deciding which dog breed between the Alaskan Malamute and the Golden Cocker Retriever better suits you and your family.