The Eskimos often shared their dogs, and it was necessary for the Malamute to take direction and commands from non-family members. Malamutes are highly intuitive and can therefore react unfavorably to those who are intimidated or fearful of them, and they certainly will not take orders from those they don't respect. The almond shape is one of the most beautiful and distinguishing features of the total appearance. Round eyes should be faulted. Dark eyes are preferred.
Blue eyes are a complete disqualification.
Ears should be of medium size but small in proportion to the head. They are triangular in shape and slightly pointed at the tips, not wide and rounded. This moderately wide set gives the Malamute the ability to rotate its ears to hear the dog or sled driver behind him. When working the Malamute can fold his well-furred ears against his skull. Ears that are too large are inefficient for heat retention and should be penalized.