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Choose two breeds. You’ll see the same strip of citeable traits — not a winner, and not kids / apartment / shedding scorecards.
Temperament lines are short plate excerpts, not a verdict. Open each plate for the full entry.
- AKC group
Working
- Size
Large
- Height
~58–64 cm
- Weight
~34–39 kg
- Energy
High
- Energy notes
Stamina for hauling rather than speed. AKC's standard asks for a gait that is "steady, balanced, tireless and totally efficient" and says the breed "is not intended as a racing sled dog.
- Trainability
Moderate
- Coat
A thick, coarse guard coat, "never long and soft," over a dense, oily, woolly undercoat one to two inches deep (AKC).
- Origin
United States (Alaska)
- Temperament
AKC and FCI use the same words: "The Alaskan Malamute is an affectionate, friendly dog, not a 'one man' dog. He is a loyal, devoted companion, playful in invitation, but generally impressive by his dignity after maturity.
- AKC group
Working
- Size
Large
- Height
58–70 cm (AKC)
- Weight
~32–52 kg (AKC profile)
- Energy
Moderate
- Energy notes
The Bernese is a strong working dog with a calm side: the FCI calls it of medium temperament, the AKC says Berners are generally placid, and its natural working gait is a slow trot, though it is capable of speed and agility. The AKC recommends at least half an hour of moderate exercise every day and says Berners enjoy long walks and hikes, carting and drafting, and sports such as agility, obedience, rally and tracking.
- Trainability
High
- Coat
The coat is thick, moderately long and straight or slightly wavy, with a bright natural sheen, and the AKC shows it natural with no undue trimming.
- Origin
Switzerland
- Temperament
Self-confident, alert and good-natured, never sharp or shy, says the AKC standard; a Bernese should stand steady, though it may stay aloof with strangers. The FCI describes an attentive, vigilant dog, fearless in everyday situations, good-natured and devoted to its own people, self-assured and calm with strangers, of medium temperament and docile.
