One of the many interesting features of the breed is the natural range in size, color and markings. The average weight for males is 85 lbs.; for females, 75 lbs. Many Malamutes, including show dogs, are larger or smaller than average, and bigger is not necessarily better. Most Malamutes are gray with white trim or black and white; but coats of silver, sable and red sometimes occur. Patterns of facial markings range from the all-white "open face" to the "full mask" - the combination of a black cap on the head, goggles around the eyes, and a bar down the muzzle. All Malamutes have brown eyes.

The breed's double coat consists of a short, dense undercoat and an outer coat of coarse guard hair. Malamutes shed profusely about twice a year. Except at those times, they require very little grooming. Some Malamute owners bathe the dog once a year; some once a month. Some run a brush over the dog now and then; others groom the dog daily.

A few Malamutes have long coats that are unacceptable in the show ring, but spectacular elsewhere. "Woollies", as these dogs are called, require frequent grooming to prevent mats. Prospective adopters should bear in mind that even a carefully groomed, relatively short-coated Malamute that is not actively shedding will nonetheless deposit some fur on carpets and in automobiles. This is not the breed for the fastidiously house-proud or car-proud.