Malamutes can have fleur de lis, blazes, stars, bars, goggles,etc. on the face and head. Difficult to define but unmistakable when seen, the well let down hock is what gives the Malamute a gently sloping top line. Picture a straight back, sloping gently to the hips, with moderately bent stifles, and broad and strong hocks that are likewise moderately bent, and you have the ideal structure. The bite should never been overshot or undershot. The wry or misaligned mouth prevents the dog from efficiently closing its mouth and should be considered the most serious of all bite problems.
Lips are tight-fitting to avoid drooling and subsequent ice formation on the lips.
Certainly there are many lovely dogs with striking breed type that turn into walking disasters with their first steps. By the same token, the mixed-breed is one of the most sound animals. Then I rejudge according to overall soundness. They are true clowns, fun-loving and extremely smart. The Malamute should be happy, move with enthusiasm and display expression and interest, but showmanship should never be the determining factor in judging over a more sound and physically correct specimen.