Malamutes have many wolf-like traits, but they aren’t part wolf. Like all dogs, the Malamute is a descendant of wolf ancestors. Over time, fewer of the wolf characteristics have been bred out of the Malamute, which is what gives them their wolf appearance.
The Alaskan Malamute is an ancient breed, which may explain the prominence of wolf characteristics. The Malamute would likely have been bred between sled dogs and wolves. However, this interbreeding would have been historical, and it doesn’t make them part wolf. It does indicate that their appearance has remained relatively unchanged for centuries.
Malamutes are definitely similar to wolves in appearance, which is where the mistake often comes from. In fact, Malamutes are often chosen to play wolves in films and television series.
There are several physical similarities that lead to the Malamute being mistaken for a wolf. To begin with, they have similar facial markings, and the same pointy ears. They even have the same intelligent eyes. The coloring of Malamutes and wolves is also similar. Malamutes are most often bred with gray coats, but they can be red, black, white, and wolf sable.
In terms of build, wolves are taller and leaner. A wolf is a wild animal, so its weight comes from lean muscle. Malamutes, on the other hand, have been domesticated. They may weigh similar to the wolf, but as they don’t have to hunt for prey they don’t require the same streamlined speed. Malamutes were partly bred to be sled dogs, so their weight is distributed for bulk and stamina. Side by side, the standard wolf is taller and thinner than a Malamute.
Outside of appearance, they have similar pack instinct and prey drive. The major difference is Malamutes can see humans as part of the pack. A wolf won’t react the same way.
From a distance, it’s easy to mistake a Malamute for a wolf. Especially as Malamutes communicate with howls very similar to a wolf call. However, Malamutes aren’t part wolf, they were just bred to retain many of the same characteristics.