Jack London’s boyhood home burned down many years ago. Near its location at Third & Brannan Streets in San Francisco, the historical society affixed a plaque commemorating the place where the writer was born. Despite being a fan of London’s books, I never knew anything about his birthplace. So it was something of a surprise to see this commemorative plaque one day during a walk from downtown San Francisco to a ballgame at Third & King.
California Historical Society
In fact, I didn’t notice the plaque. My daughter did. And at age 10, she’s already read the abridged versions of Jack London’s iconic works, The Call of the Wild and White Fang. Both are about dogs and take place largely in the Yukon Territory of Canada (via Skagway, Alaska) during the Klondike Gold Rush of the 1890s, a world which Jack London experienced firsthand.
On the cover of my daughter’s White Fang book, there is a picture of a dog that looks like a husky. But it’s a little too husky for a husky. When you get huskier than a husky and the tail curls upward, then it’s probably not a husky but another dog which is larger but nearly identical in appearance: the Alaskan malamute. When Jack London envisioned the wolf-dog hybrid who was the central character in White Fang, perhaps he was imagining something like the malamute, one of Alaska’s native working dogs. We do know that the dog in The Call of the Wild was based on a real life dog that London had known, though it was a different breed. Movie versions of both these books used malamutes, which are descendants of the Arctic Wolf and of earlier domestic breeds.
Alaskan malamute vs. Siberian husky. The malamute is heavier and its tail curls up, but they can be difficult to distinguish. To complicate matters, Alaskan huskies can be hybrids. akc.org
An Inuit family with a malamute (according to the record, though the dog's face is not visible), 1915. Public domain.
Malamutes were developed by an Inuit people called the Mahlemuts or Malamiuts, who probably began breeding these dogs for their winter hardiness and their ability to carry heavy loads. They have been used for pulling sleds, for hunting, and for protection from animals as fierce as polar bears. Some believe these dogs came with people into the New World as they migrated from Siberia into Alaska. Like most primitive, indigenous dogs from around the world, malamutes feature pointed ears and a tail that curves upwards. They have a heavy coat, which is a necessity for northern dogs.
The Alaskan malamute is one of the breeds used in dog sledding, including in Alaska’s famous cross-country Iditarod race. Here is a video of someone dog sledding with malamutes.
The first time I hear about something, I often dismiss it. The second time, it rings a bell in my mind suggesting that I pay more attention. When I hear something a third time, I know it’s a pattern or a trend, and if I don’t pay attention it will fly right by me (or perhaps already has). In this case, I was not looking for another malamute reference so soon (especially after I wrote a recent post about wolves!). But a pattern emerged, and even if it was the product of random coincidence, that convinced me to write a post about these dogs.
Malamute. Creative Commons via Flickr.com by giardetoteam.
You can’t predict fate. It was less than two weeks later that my other daughter and I were walking our terrier mix at the local park. Suddenly, there was a burst of white from the football field and WHAM! A huge dog jumped on my daughter. It looked like a large Husky and it was friendly; it had jumped on her because it liked kids and wanted to play. When the owner came over and apologized for the dog’s behavior, we learned that it actually was an Alaskan malamute, not a Husky, and that its name was Comet.
The third time malamutes came up was when I was reading about Star Wars and the origin of some of its characters, having recently watched the Solo movie. And there, within the article I was reading, was an obscure fact I had not remembered: the character of Chewbacca in Star Wars was inspired by a malamute. It was Star Wars creator George Lucas’ dog, named Indiana, a name which also works into the fictional storyline of the Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade movie. George Lucas’ malamute dog inspired the Chewbacca character because it used to sit in the passenger seat of his car and he liked the idea of a furry co-pilot. The dog also served as namesake for the Indiana Jones character (who originally was called Indiana Smith until George Lucas had a conversation about it with Steven Spielberg while the two were building a sandcastle on a vacation to Hawaii; Spielberg told him Jones would be better than Smith).
Chewbacca apparently began as a malamute. Here, you can see the storyboard for Star Wars, which made Han Solo's co-pilot look more like a dog than a sasquatch. Last image is the final Chewie in Star Wars from Lucasfilm. The first two images are courtesy of the Denver Art Museum.
You might think Chewbacca is cute. You might think that a furry, wolfy-looking huskier-than-a-husky is cute. But let me tell you something...
Malamute puppies. Creative Commons via Flickr.com by KittyGreen.66.
You haven’t seen cute until you’ve seen a malamute puppy. On my one and only trip to Alaska, my family stopped by a training facility for the Iditarod sled dog race that is held annually through the frozen landscape of Alaska. The sled dog puppies, mostly huskies, malamutes and mixes, had been born just a few weeks earlier. We held and petted some malamute puppies, which rolled all over us, and my kids couldn’t wait to get one of their own (a few years later, we did get our dog, though he’s a scruffy little goofball who does not resemble a sled dog). In practice, most Iditarod dogs are not purebreds, but mixes between traditional Northern dogs like huskies, malamutes, samoyeds, and additional breeds which provide desirable characteristics, such as border collies and greyhounds.
Like primitive dogs, the lead character in White Fang was born wild, but became domesticated. The first humans who found him did not treat him well; he became ill-mannered and turned into a fighting dog. Over time, another owner worked to tame him his fury. Eventually the dog in this story ended up further south in Jack London’s native California. He saved the life of the family patriarch and thereafter earned himself an easier life lounging in the warm sun.
The warm sun provides a good life for dogs, but it can get a little too hot in the summertime. My dog needs to be shaved at least twice during the warm parts of the year. He doesn’t have arctic fur, but he’s probably better suited for the cool weather of the Scottish Highlands than for hot, arid climes. I can only imagine that a thick-coated dog like a malamute would feel uncomfortable during summer months also. But I can’t imagine Chewbacca being shaved and I’m quite sure Jack London never wrote about doggy grooming salons.
A well-groomed Chewbacca might start singing old Ricky Skaggs tunes. Credit for that idea goes to http://owlcorn.blogspot.com. Hey, that's amazing, Skaggs and Skagway both fit in the same post.
References:
https://a-z-animals.com/animals/alaskan-malamute/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raiders_of_the_Lost_Ark
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_London
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_Fang
http://mentalfloss.com/article/56801/15-chewbacca-facts-honor-peter-mayhews-birthday
https://denverartmuseum.org/article/how-george-lucas-dog-inspired-chewbacca
The top picture and this one show malamutes as working dogs in the late 1800s or early 1900s. They've often pulled sleds. This picture shows them pulling wagons full of Gold Rush miners and gear.
@donkeypong, Firstly I want give you big thanks every your blogs so interesting to read and can be get massive knowledge about various fields. This would be story of malamutes and they are so adorable. Prefer to keep like as pet. Those Alaskan malamute were too intelligent I've heard before. Impressive video for see them and take idea what's strength of them. Every-time kept dogs between humans connectivity. So I think those malamutes gave massive helps to Inuit peoples. Absolutely brilliant blog posted included beauty images of puppy's and contexts. Thanks again Tom.
Thank you very much for big post.I like it steemit friend....
Siberian huskies are so cute, but you said that there are huskier than them and they are the Malamutes. Wow! They are really so cute, but I feel pity on them working ...Thanks for sharing sir @donkeypong.
Most are well treated. And if you ever see a crew of sled dogs getting hitched up for a trip, they are so excited and happy to be going out on the trail. They are smiling, barking in delight, and some are literally jumping up and down because they can't wait to get going. Yes, it's work, but they live for running with their pack and they absolutely love it. Hopefully, they get a nice retirement after the work is done.
Yeah, I hope,too they should get a nice retirement after the work...maybe a good dinner will do. He he.
Before now,
I don't know much about dogs, aside from the locals and the movies, I watch them just for fun, but your rich article have widened my knowledge.
Thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!!
I wanted to say thank you because I have always loved malamutes and huskies!! This article is very informative and interesting.
Thanks. They're nice dogs.
Yes Jack London a notable author, the place where he born is well known for "The Sea Wolf".
But that place (Brannar streets) faced many natural hazard during beginning of 20th century, yet he survived and became a famous writer and social activitist.
I read about him few days back, but his love for his dog "Rollo" never fargetable..
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thanks @donkeypong for writing this article for "Jack Landon".
Yes, he wrote some other great stories also, but those are the main ones people know. Thanks for the comment!
Realy awesome photography.I have been never to London.I want to go to London.Would anyone help me???
It is a god thing to learn about Malamutes, first time I happen to learn about such breed of dog. It seems that they are a strong dog built for winter weather but maybe they have such a great endurance since they are used like horses in the Arctic environment @donkeypong
Jack London is one of my favorite childhood writers. Of course, he has works for adults, but "White Fang" - this is my strong impression from childhood. Thank you for reminding me of this book, I will recommend it to my daughter.
His books are for adults, but they also are possible for fairly mature kids to read and appreciate.
I use to think dog sledge was used in only in cold countries, you know like the snowy roads that will allow them to glide perfectly
Cold countries are where they are most useful. But they can pull a small wheeled vehicle in the summertime also, which is how many of them stay in shape for winter sledding.
Wow never knew this, they look so fluffy and cool ridden in the summer too
Awesome indeed:)
Really beautiful Natural Many beautiful photography.
You are a right say.
You are a very big writer. Historical descriptions are needed in our great benefit. To know the past days or events left, we have to rely on our historical context. Here is a beautiful historical issue which we have learned from 1 beautiful past life left We got to know about the malamutes dog very well that you did this. Dogs were a very old resource in the past that helped our biographies and all of us have been partners. However, in this present society, nobody gives malamutes dog so much value. In your article, how much of a malamutes dog was needed in our lives. Thank you so much for presenting these everyday things.
Thank you for your thoughtful response. I enjoy bringing in history and connecting it with the present.
You continue to write about historical issues. I enjoy it very much. And like. I think there is a need to know the past.
Superb write-up your think pattern is amazing. if you can abstract so much things from dogs it's a really great part.
Thanks for the comment and glad you liked the post.
They are beautiful and intelligent ... Beautiful photography of the puppies. I would like one. :)
They're quite fluffy and adorable.
Yeah, they are a tenderness !!
Alaska malamute are very strong breeds and highly intelligent, well built stamina to withstand any challenges. Perhaps, they should not be grouped as dog breeds (just kidding). But their strength is really extremely unparalleled and extraordinary.
With most dogs, I'm still amazed they are the same species as a wolf. But these ones look so similar to wolves.
Its a very great historical write up showing the different breeds of dogs, there are some dogs that shows more compassion than human, animal can never lie, when they hate you, they really do, and when they like you, they do.
Here is another specie
@donkeypong you did a very great historical research, job well done
Malamutes are sufficiently inviting and shrewd, like to be in the organization of individuals. As a result of these character characteristics, they ought not be depended with the assurance of property. Preparing for the improvement of defensive abilities won't bring the best possible outcome. This breed has a tireless and steady nature and necessities a course of dutifulness. Be that as it may, even in the wake of passing it, the malamute can all of a sudden dispatch into a pursuit or just investigate the zone inside a range of 2-5 kilometers and return back when it needs. All malamutes require work that they are prepared to perform under any climate conditions, particularly in the harsh elements. In the warmth, nonetheless, it is beneficial to be exceptionally watchful and furnish the pet with a shadow, unhindered access to water, and still it is important to avoid substantial burdens.@donkeypong
#Nice write-up on (DOG)canis domestica
@donkeypong your blog are always outstanding
Bravo
A wonderful review, my friend and dog has always been a friend of man. Malamutes are friendly enough and smart, prefer to be in the company of people. Because of these character traits, they should not be entrusted with the protection of property. Training for the development of protective skills will not bring the proper result. This breed has a persistent and persistent nature and needs a course of obedience. But even after passing it, the malamute can suddenly launch into a chase or simply explore the area within a radius of 2-5 kilometers and return back when it wants. All malamutes need work that they are ready to perform under any weather conditions, especially in the cold. In the heat, however, it is worthwhile to be very careful and provide the pet with a shadow, unhindered access to water, and still it is necessary to exclude heavy loads. Thank you @donkeypong
Oh yes, these are excellent dogs @donkeypong and the Alaskan Malamute is even called a "northern or snow train". This dog is able to adapt to the harshest conditions of the north, where there is eternal winter, frost and snow. In this malamute is very hardy and strong. They can drag a sled with a person or a cart with things a few kilometers. Alaskan Malamute is considered one of the most ancient breeds of sled dogs. The name of the breed comes from the name of one tribe that lived in the west of Alaska. This dog deserves special attention!
very moving your story with your daughter @donkeypong, it turns out your daughter is also a fan of jack london, extraordinary first information in can through story by your daughter new study to location. truly extraordinary. congratulations to those of you who have a cute and intelligent daughter.
Alaskan Malamute
Looking after Your Faithful Companion
Alaskan Malamutes: What a Unique Breed!
Your canine is uncommon! She's your closest companion, sidekick, and a wellspring of unrestricted love. Odds are that you picked her since you like Mals and you anticipated that her would have certain attributes that would fit your way of life:
A warm sidekick and family puppy
Cordial and well disposed identity
Great with youngsters
Lively and vivacious
Steadfast and adoring partner
Expansive, solid, and athletic, with heaps of stamina in cooler atmospheres.
Malamutes are the largest and oldest of the Arctic Sled dogs. Originating over 4000 years ago, Mals were kept by the Mahlemuts, an Inuit Tribe in Alaska. They are known for their stamina, not their speed, when pulling heavy sled loads. Alaskan Malamutes are a relatively healthy breed with an average lifespan of 12 years, but they can suffer from some common conditions like hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and bloat.
Superb writing and min blowing photography
Alaskan malamutes make the highest priority on the rundown for most misjudged breeds, that is aside from individuals who know and cherish them. I happen to be one of those individuals. Understanding the malamute is extremely not all that hard. Think about a canine that has numerous human attributes, for example, insight and amiability and you'll come to see only a couple of the most charming characteristics of the malamute.
Be that as it may, all things considered, they can likewise be a standout amongst the most baffling canine breeds you can ever possess essentially on the grounds that they should (and I stretch must with a capital "M") be kept occupied and they should have an occupation to do. They are not the canine breed to sit inertly by and be overlooked.
Alaskan malamutes have been around for quite a long time. They are one of the "genuine" pooch breeds and much as individuals say they are part wolf, they, actually, are most certainly not. They are an antiquated type of pooch that was reproduced for one critical thing… and that thing was pulling.
They get their name from the Mahlemut clan of Alaskan Inuits and are known for their awesome quality. They are heavier than huskies, who are known for their speed and are normally the pooches that spring to mind when you consider speeding sleds pulled by snow puppies.
The Frozen North malamute are exceptionally solid breeds and exceedingly shrewd, well assembled stamina to withstand any difficulties. Maybe, they ought not be gathered as canine breeds.
These beautiful, gentle giants were also used by the ancient Malamute peoples as babysitters. Their naturally patient, nurturing and protective nature meant that they would be allowed to sleep with the children and babies to keep them warm and safe during the below freezing night temperatures. Big loveable cuddle bears, and the perfect companion if you have the space!
Hello Sir @donkeypong, Amazing moving your story with your daughter Sir @donkeypong, it turns out your daughter is also a fan of jack london, extraordinary first information in can through story by your daughter new study to location. truly extraordinary. congratulations to those of you who have a cute and intelligent daughter.You are a very big writer. Historical descriptions are needed in our great benefit. To know the past days or events left, we have to rely on our historical context. Here is a beautiful historical issue which we have learned from 1 beautiful past life left We got to know about the malamutes dog very well that you did this.
Sir @donkeypong, Love Your Proposal Well Explained
#We Love Sir @donkeypong, respect a lot.
@donkeypong this blog is really impressive.Most valuable post.You always post better.Ricky Skaggs was the greatest in the world.
Thanks.
Edited.
Please delete this comment and make your own post. You are doing good work, but I consider your comment to be spam because it is unsolicited and completely irrelevant to the post. Spam should be downvoted.
Ricky Skaggs!...wow😃
Bang tolong apvode postingan saya,,
Wow very wonderful dog .I like it dog.your post is very important. thank you friend.i really love your post.
all dogs if the salon would be interesting, hehe
Salam hangat untuk anda @donkeypong. Semoga sukses.
This is the first time that I actually enjoyed reading an article about dogs. Good stuff.
Thanks for the good info about malamutes and huskies. I remember reading Jack London as a child and I also watched a movie about Klondike Gold Rush.
Have you watched movie called Hatiko? (I hope I spelled it right)
Informative post
Thanks for the referance about the malamute and husky. By the way, the photography of malamute puppies so cute. :)
Well you right @donkeypong, Alaskan Malamutes have strong, big-boned, wolf-like frames covered in soft double-thick coats. Their wide heads have rounded skulls, large muzzles, triangular ears and black noses. They have almond-shaped eyes with a wolf-like but kind and curious expression.
Good references about malamute dogs...so we can say malamutes were domisticated only for the labourous work i.e pulling the sled where the husky were basicaly the pets of the owner...they do resembles quite similar.
I love animal so much,specially dog.Sometimes i used to give food to street dogs.And your writing skill attract me so much.wel done my dear.
amazing post loved it hoping to see more from you
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These dogs are so amazing. They make transport easier.
great writing...it is a historical story....dogs are really helpful animal
Wow malamutes.
I am a huge fan of Malamutes.
The are the best Sledge dogs, very powerful and fast.
@This gift society, nobody offers malamutes canine a lot fee. for your article, how lots of a malamutes canine became wished in our lives
Great history and wonderful dogs.
hahahahaha Rikky Skaggs so funny!! That hair took some serious blowdrying haha I'm still laughing; Brian's asking what's so funny and I can't even explain. Rikky totally came out of the blue here :) Good one @donkeypong!
I had all kind of things going through my mind as I read your post, but all I've got know is, you guessed it, Rikky Skaggs. I will never look at another Malamute or Husky, or Chewy for that matter, without giggling :)
Thanks for the laugh! :)
Your articel quality greatful.Your post was very beautiful. I have read your entire post with my heart.There are many teaching in the beautiful post.The pictures are very beautiful.I hope you always writing such post
Really cool post. I didn't know much about the history of Alaskan Malamutes. Growing up my Aunt and Uncle had one in San Diego, such an amazing dog. :) Not many sleds to be pulled there though. haha