🐺 Alaskan Malamute Puppies for Sale Near Me: Expert Guide & Buying Tips
Alaskan Malamutes are majestic, powerful, and incredibly loyal dogs bred for endurance in Arctic conditions. If you’re searching for Alaskan Malamute puppies for sale near you, the process requires careful research to find healthy, well-bred puppies from ethical breeders.
🔑 Quick Key Takeaways: Your Must-Know Answers
❓ Common Questions | ✅ Quick Answers |
---|---|
Where can I find Alaskan Malamute puppies near me? | Reputable breeders, online marketplaces, and adoption agencies. |
How much do Alaskan Malamute puppies cost? | $1,000–$3,000 from breeders, $150–$500 for adoption. |
What should I look for in a breeder? | Health-tested parents, transparency, and ethical breeding practices. |
Are Malamutes high-maintenance? | Yes! They require heavy exercise, grooming, and training. |
Are there red flags when buying a Malamute? | Yes! Avoid puppy mills, “rare” color claims, and USDA-licensed mass breeders. |
🏡 Where Can You Find Alaskan Malamute Puppies for Sale Near You?
There are three main ways to find an Alaskan Malamute puppy:
1️⃣ Reputable Breeders – Best for quality, health-tested, and well-socialized puppies. 🏆
2️⃣ Online Marketplaces – A wider selection, but requires caution to avoid unethical breeders. 🌐
3️⃣ Adoption & Rescues – A great low-cost and ethical choice, but puppies are rare. ❤️
🔍 Reputable Alaskan Malamute Breeders in the USA
Choosing a trustworthy breeder ensures your Malamute is healthy, well-bred, and ethically raised. Below are highly rated breeders with current or upcoming puppies.
🏆 Breeder Name | 🌎 Location | 🐕 Key Features | 💰 Price Range |
---|---|---|---|
Beartooth Alaskan Malamutes 🏔️ | Wyoming | DNA-tested, family-raised AKC puppies. | $2,400–$2,600 |
Snowlion Alaskan Malamutes ❄️ | California/Nevada | Champion bloodlines, working Malamutes. | $2,000+ |
Cascade Malamutes 🌲 | North America | Over 40 years of experience, high breeder reputation. | Varies (inquire) |
Harvest Moon Malamutes 🌕 | New York | Giant Malamutes (up to 190 lbs), sought-after lines. | $1,500–$3,000 |
FurEver Friends Inc. 🐾 | Maryland | AKC-registered, extensive health screening. | $1,200–$2,500 |
Warrior’s Legacy ⚔️ | Michigan | Ethical breeder, trusted by Malamute owners. | $1,000–$2,200 |
💡 Expert Tip: Always ask for AMPN DNA tests, hip evaluations, and breeder references before committing to a purchase.
🌐 Online Marketplaces for Malamute Puppies
These sites list available Malamute puppies across the USA, but buyers must vet sellers carefully to avoid scams or unethical breeding practices.
🌎 Website | 📌 Features | 💰 Typical Price Range |
---|---|---|
AKC Marketplace 🏅 | AKC-registered breeders nationwide. | $500–$2,500 |
Puppies.com 🖥️ | Real-time listings, price varies by location. | $500–$1,500 |
Lancaster Puppies 🚚 | PA-based, ships nationally, verify breeder credibility. | $1,000–$2,000 |
Greenfield Puppies 🌿 | Similar to Lancaster, Midwest breeders. | $1,000–$2,000 |
💡 Expert Tip: Never buy from listings with vague details, no health guarantees, or unusually low prices.
🐶 Adoption & Rescue Options: Save a Malamute in Need!
Adoption is a rewarding, cost-effective alternative. While Malamute puppies are rare in shelters, young and adult Malamutes are often available.
❤️ Adoption Source | 📍 Availability | 💰 Typical Fee |
---|---|---|
Adopt-a-Pet 🏠 | Nationwide rescues & shelters. | $150–$500 |
Alaskan Malamute Assistance League (AMAL) 🛷 | Regional rescues (e.g., PA, TX, CA). | $200–$400 |
Petfinder 🐾 | Broad search tool, occasional puppy listings. | $200–$500 |
💡 Expert Tip: Check rescue websites frequently, as puppies get adopted quickly.
💰 How Much Do Alaskan Malamute Puppies Cost?
Pricing depends on breeder reputation, bloodline, location, and demand.
📍 Region | 💵 Price Range | 🔍 Why? |
---|---|---|
Northeast (NY, PA, MA) 🍁 | $1,200–$2,500 | High demand, higher cost of living. |
South (TX, FL, GA) 🌴 | $1,000–$2,300 | Slightly lower due to climate. |
Midwest (OH, MI, IL) 🌾 | $1,000–$2,200 | Competitive pricing from numerous breeders. |
West (CA, WY, NV) 🏔️ | $1,200–$3,000 | Premium for show-quality or giant lines. |
Adoption (Nationwide) ❤️ | $150–$500 | Lower cost, but limited availability. |
💡 Expert Tip: Avoid puppies under $500—this is often a sign of backyard breeding or puppy mills.
🚨 Red Flags When Buying a Malamute Puppy
Unethical breeders and puppy mills cut corners on health, socialization, and care. Avoid sellers with these warning signs:
🚩 Red Flag | ❌ Why It’s a Problem |
---|---|
No health testing 🏥 | Puppies may inherit hip dysplasia, polyneuropathy. |
“Rare” colors advertised 🎨 | Malamutes naturally come in standard colors—rare claims often indicate mixed breeding. |
Multiple litters available at once 🍼 | Mass breeding reduces care and quality. |
No contract or guarantees 📜 | Ethical breeders offer health guarantees and contracts. |
Breeder won’t answer questions 🤐 | Transparency is key—avoid secretive sellers. |
💡 Expert Tip: Join Alaskan Malamute breed groups (Reddit, Facebook) to ask about breeder reputations before purchasing.
🔎 Final Recommendations for Finding a Malamute Puppy
✔ For Health & Quality: Beartooth or Snowlion – Expect $2,000+ and possible waitlists.
✔ For Budget Options: Check Puppies.com or rescue sites for older puppies ($500–$1,200).
✔ For Immediate Availability: AKC Marketplace has the widest real-time selection.
✔ For Ethical Adoption: AMAL (Alaskan Malamute Assistance League) has puppies and young adults needing homes.
📬 Still searching? Drop your location in the comments, and we’ll help you find Malamute puppies near you! 🐺❄️
📝 Expert Answers to Your Questions
❓ Comment 1: “How can I tell if an Alaskan Malamute breeder is reputable?”
A reputable breeder prioritizes health, temperament, and ethical breeding practices. Before committing to a puppy, ensure the breeder meets essential quality standards.
✅ Signs of a Reputable Breeder | 🚨 Red Flags to Avoid |
---|---|
Health-tested parents 🏥 – Hips, eyes, and AMPN DNA screening for genetic diseases. | No health clearances ❌ – High risk of inherited disorders. |
Transparent about lineage 📜 – Provides detailed pedigree and genetic testing results. | Won’t share pedigree 🚩 – May indicate inbreeding or non-purebred dogs. |
Visits allowed (in-person or video) 🏡 – Shows a clean, safe environment. | Refuses visits or videos 🚫 – Could be hiding poor conditions. |
Contracts with health guarantees ✅ – Covers genetic issues for at least 1–2 years. | No contract or warranty ❌ – Leaves buyers with no protection. |
Limited litters per year 🐶 – Focuses on quality, not quantity. | Constantly available puppies 🏭 – Signs of overbreeding or puppy mill operation. |
💡 Expert Tip: Ask for vet references or check breeder reputations through AMCA (Alaskan Malamute Club of America) or breed-specific forums.
❓ Comment 2: “How much should I expect to spend on an Alaskan Malamute in the first year?”
The cost of purchasing a Malamute is just the beginning. These large dogs have high food, vet, and grooming expenses, making them a financial commitment.
🏷️ Expense | 💰 Estimated Cost (First Year) | 🔍 Why It’s Necessary |
---|---|---|
Puppy Purchase Price 🐶 | $1,000 – $3,000 | Varies by breeder reputation, bloodline, and location. |
Veterinary Care (Vaccines, Exams) 🏥 | $400 – $800 | Includes vaccinations, deworming, and health screenings. |
Food & Treats 🥩 | $900 – $1,500 | Large breeds need high-protein, high-quality food. |
Training & Socialization 🎓 | $300 – $600 | Malamutes require professional obedience training. |
Grooming & Supplies ✂️ | $300 – $700 | Brushes, shampoos, nail trims, and shedding management. |
Toys & Enrichment 🧸 | $100 – $300 | Mental stimulation is critical to prevent destructive behaviors. |
Insurance & Emergency Fund 🚑 | $500 – $1,000 | Covers accidents, illness, or unexpected health issues. |
💡 Expert Tip: Plan for at least $3,500–$7,000 in the first year to ensure your Malamute has proper care, training, and nutrition.
❓ Comment 3: “What are the biggest health risks for Alaskan Malamutes?”
Alaskan Malamutes are generally robust dogs, but they are prone to several hereditary health issues due to their large size and genetic background.
🏥 Common Health Issue | ⚠️ Symptoms to Watch For | ✅ Prevention & Management |
---|---|---|
Hip Dysplasia 🦴 | Limping, difficulty standing, reluctance to run. | Buy from OFA-certified breeders and maintain a healthy weight. |
Polyneuropathy (AMPN Disease) ⚡ | Weakness, wobbly gait, difficulty breathing. | DNA testing is crucial—responsible breeders screen for it. |
Bloat (Gastric Torsion) 🩺 | Swollen abdomen, restlessness, vomiting foam. | Feed multiple small meals, avoid exercise after eating. |
Cataracts & Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) 👀 | Cloudy eyes, night blindness, vision loss. | Yearly eye exams from a certified veterinary ophthalmologist. |
Hypothyroidism 🦠 | Weight gain, sluggishness, hair thinning. | Routine bloodwork and thyroid function tests. |
💡 Expert Tip: Choose breeders who test for these conditions and schedule regular vet check-ups to catch early warning signs.
❓ Comment 4: “Are Alaskan Malamutes good for first-time dog owners?”
Malamutes are NOT ideal for first-time owners. They require strong leadership, structured training, and extensive daily exercise.
🏆 Pros of Owning a Malamute | ⚠️ Challenges for First-Time Owners |
---|---|
Loyal & affectionate ❤️ – Deeply bonds with family members. | Strong-willed & stubborn 🧠 – Requires firm, experienced training. |
Highly intelligent 🏆 – Capable of advanced training and problem-solving. | High prey drive 🐾 – May chase small pets or wildlife. |
Independent thinker 🔍 – Can make decisions on their own. | Not off-leash safe 🚨 – Known for wandering and ignoring recall. |
Can be trained for sledding, weight pulling 🛷 | Needs daily exercise 🏃 – 2+ hours required for physical and mental stimulation. |
💡 Expert Tip: If you are a first-time owner, consider working with a Malamute trainer before committing to this powerful, high-energy breed.
❓ Comment 5: “What’s the difference between an Alaskan Malamute and a Siberian Husky?”
Although they look similar, Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies have distinct differences in size, temperament, and purpose.
🐺 Alaskan Malamute | 🐕 Siberian Husky |
---|---|
Larger & more muscular 💪 – 75–100 lbs. | Smaller & leaner 🏃 – 35–60 lbs. |
Bred for heavy pulling & endurance 🛷 | Bred for speed & agility 🏎️ |
More independent & dominant 🧠 | More social & playful 🎉 |
Low prey drive but strong guarding instinct 🚨 | Higher prey drive, may chase small animals 🐿️ |
Thicker coat, heavier shedding ❄️ | Lighter coat, moderate shedding 🌬️ |
💡 Expert Tip: If you want a powerful working dog for endurance, go for a Malamute. If you prefer a smaller, more playful companion, a Husky may be a better fit.
❓ Comment 6: “How can I stop my Alaskan Malamute from digging and escaping?”
Malamutes are natural diggers and escape artists due to their working heritage and high intelligence. Managing this behavior requires structured training and proper fencing.
⛏️ Why Malamutes Dig? | ✅ How to Prevent It |
---|---|
Cooling off in warm weather ☀️ | Provide a shaded, cool area and a kiddie pool in summer. |
Boredom or lack of exercise 🚶♂️ | Increase mental stimulation, give puzzle toys, and provide daily physical activity. |
Hunting instincts (prey drive) 🐿️ | Keep backyard free of small critters that may trigger digging. |
Escape attempts or seeking adventure 🏃 | Use 6ft+ tall fences with dig-proof barriers (concrete or buried wire). |
💡 Expert Tip: Designate a specific “dig zone” (like a sandbox) to redirect their instinctive behavior while keeping your yard intact.
❓ Comment 7: “How much exercise does an Alaskan Malamute need daily?”
Alaskan Malamutes are built for endurance and physical labor, meaning they require significant daily exercise to stay mentally and physically healthy. A simple walk around the block won’t be enough for this high-energy breed.
🏃♂️ Exercise Type | ⏳ Recommended Time | 🎯 Why It’s Important |
---|---|---|
Daily Walks 🚶 | 60+ minutes (twice daily) | Keeps joints healthy, prevents obesity. |
Off-Leash Running (In a Secure Area) 🏃 | 20-30 minutes, 3-4 times a week | Mimics natural energy bursts, helps muscle strength. |
Sled Pulling / Carting 🛷 | 30-60 minutes, 2-3 times a week | Engages working instincts, prevents boredom. |
Obedience & Trick Training 🎓 | 15-30 minutes daily | Mental stimulation reduces destructive behaviors. |
Hiking & Adventure Walks 🌲 | 1-2 hours on weekends | Allows exploration, satisfies natural instincts. |
💡 Expert Tip: Malamutes thrive with a “job.” If you don’t have a sled or cart, try weight pulling, backpacking, or agility courses to keep them engaged.
❓ Comment 8: “Can Alaskan Malamutes live in warm climates?”
Malamutes are designed for Arctic conditions, so hot climates can pose a challenge. However, with proper care, they can adapt to warmer environments.
☀️ Climate Concern | 🔥 Why It’s a Risk? | ✅ How to Keep Them Comfortable |
---|---|---|
Thick double coat 🧥 | Retains heat, making overheating likely. | Never shave their coat—it protects against sunburn and overheating. |
Prone to heat exhaustion 🥵 | Struggles to cool down efficiently. | Exercise in the early morning or late evening to avoid peak heat. |
Limited heat tolerance 🌡️ | Risk of heatstroke in direct sun. | Provide constant shade, cooling mats, and plenty of water. |
Panting as primary cooling method 😮💨 | Can’t sweat like humans. | Use fans and air conditioning when indoors. |
💡 Expert Tip: Frozen treats, wet towels, and cooling vests can help keep your Malamute comfortable during hot days. Avoid asphalt and concrete walks in the midday sun, as they can burn paw pads.
❓ Comment 9: “Are Alaskan Malamutes aggressive?”
Malamutes are not naturally aggressive, but their strong-willed, dominant nature requires early training and proper socialization. They are typically affectionate, loyal, and friendly, but certain behaviors need careful management.
🐕 Behavior | 🔍 Natural Tendency | ✅ How to Manage It |
---|---|---|
Guarding Instinct 🏡 | Protective but not territorial like guard dogs. | Socialize with strangers early to prevent wariness. |
Dog Aggression 🐶 | Can be dominant, especially with same-sex dogs. | Introduce to other dogs as a puppy to encourage good behavior. |
Prey Drive 🐾 | High—may chase small animals. | Secure fences and leash-walk around wildlife or small pets. |
Independent Mindset 🧠 | Prefers making its own decisions. | Use firm, consistent training with positive reinforcement. |
💡 Expert Tip: Early exposure to different people, environments, and animals will shape a well-mannered Malamute. Their stubbornness requires a confident, patient owner who reinforces structure and boundaries.
❓ Comment 10: “Can Alaskan Malamutes be left alone during the day?”
Malamutes are social dogs that form deep bonds with their families, making them prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long.
⏳ Time Left Alone | 😔 Effect on Your Malamute | ✅ Best Practices |
---|---|---|
0-2 hours ⏳ | Typically fine with proper exercise beforehand. | Provide engaging toys, a safe space, and water. |
3-5 hours ⏳ | May start showing signs of restlessness. | Leave interactive puzzles or frozen treats to keep them busy. |
6+ hours 🚨 | High risk of boredom, anxiety, and destructive behavior. | Consider a dog walker, daycare, or interactive pet camera. |
All day (8+ hours) ❌ | Not recommended—Malamutes may dig, howl, or escape. | Needs regular interaction and physical activity throughout the day. |
💡 Expert Tip: Malamutes left alone without stimulation may resort to digging, chewing furniture, or howling excessively. If you work long hours, arrange midday exercise sessions to prevent behavioral issues.
❓ Comment 11: “How much does it cost to feed an Alaskan Malamute?”
Malamutes have large appetites and require high-quality, protein-rich food to maintain their muscular build and energy levels.
🍖 Feeding Cost Factor | 💰 Estimated Monthly Cost | 📌 Details |
---|---|---|
Premium Dry Kibble 🥩 | $80 – $150 | High-protein formulas (30%+ protein, 15%+ fat). |
Raw Diet (BARF) 🥩 | $100 – $250 | Includes raw meats, bones, and organs for natural nutrition. |
Wet Food Additions 🥫 | $50 – $100 | Helps hydration, adds variety. |
Treats & Supplements 🦴 | $20 – $50 | Joint supplements (glucosamine), training treats. |
💡 Expert Tip: Look for grain-free, high-meat-content food with omega fatty acids to support coat health and prevent obesity by measuring portions carefully.
❓ Comment 12: “Are Alaskan Malamutes hypoallergenic?”
No, Alaskan Malamutes are NOT hypoallergenic. They have a thick double coat that sheds heavily, making them a poor choice for allergy sufferers.
🤧 Allergy Consideration | ⚠️ Why Malamutes May Trigger Allergies | ✅ How to Reduce Allergens |
---|---|---|
Heavy Shedding 🐕🦺 | Blows coat twice a year, releasing fur and dander. | Brush daily, especially during shedding season. |
Dander Production 🦠 | Skin flakes cause allergic reactions. | Use HEPA air purifiers and bathe monthly. |
Saliva Sensitivity 💦 | Proteins in saliva can trigger allergies. | Wipe face after meals, avoid face licking. |
💡 Expert Tip: If you have mild allergies but still want a Malamute, regular grooming and vacuuming are essential to manage shedding.
❓ Comment 13: “Do Alaskan Malamutes get along with other dogs?”
Alaskan Malamutes can coexist with other dogs, but their dominant and independent nature means careful introductions and proper socialization are crucial. Their pack mentality can lead to conflicts with same-sex or similarly dominant breeds, especially if socialization is lacking.
🐶 Dog Compatibility Factor | ⚠️ Challenge | ✅ Solution |
---|---|---|
Same-Sex Dogs 🚻 | Often struggle for dominance, especially two males. | Choose opposite-sex pairings for a smoother bond. |
Small Dog Breeds 🐕🦺 | High prey drive—may see tiny dogs as prey. | Supervised interactions, training, and clear boundaries. |
Other Large Breeds 🐺 | Can be territorial if both dogs have strong personalities. | Neutral ground meetings to prevent territorial disputes. |
Multi-Dog Homes 🏠 | Malamutes like pack structures but may challenge hierarchy. | Establish a firm pack leader role (you), with clear training. |
💡 Expert Tip: Early socialization is key! Introduce Malamute puppies to various dog breeds, sizes, and temperaments to develop balanced social skills.
❓ Comment 14: “Do Alaskan Malamutes bark a lot?”
Malamutes are not excessive barkers, but they are highly vocal and use a variety of sounds to communicate. Instead of barking, they tend to “talk” through howls, whines, and deep grumbles.
🗣️ Vocalization Type | 🔊 What It Means | ✅ How to Manage It |
---|---|---|
Howling 🌕 | Calls to their “pack,” responds to sirens or loneliness. | Avoid encouraging howling, use distraction techniques. |
Mumbling & Talking 🗣️ | Playful communication with owners. | A sign of a happy, expressive dog—enjoy it! |
Excessive Whining 😩 | Frustration, boredom, or attention-seeking behavior. | Ensure exercise needs are met, reinforce quiet behavior. |
Alert Barking 🔔 | Responding to strangers or unusual sounds. | Acknowledge but don’t reward unnecessary alarm barking. |
💡 Expert Tip: Malamutes are not natural watchdogs—they are friendly even with strangers. If you want a quiet dog, Malamutes may not be the best fit due to their expressive nature.
❓ Comment 15: “Are Alaskan Malamutes hard to train?”
Malamutes are highly intelligent but stubborn, meaning they learn quickly but decide when they want to obey. Unlike breeds that thrive on pleasing their owners (like Labradors), Malamutes need a firm, consistent, and patient trainer who establishes clear leadership.
🎓 Training Challenge | ⚠️ Why It’s Difficult | ✅ How to Overcome It |
---|---|---|
Stubbornness 🧠 | Will test boundaries repeatedly. | Use positive reinforcement and high-value rewards. |
Independence 🚀 | Prefers making its own decisions. | Keep training engaging, short, and reward-based. |
Slow Recall 🏃 | May ignore commands, especially off-leash. | Use long-lead training and high-value treats. |
Prey Drive 🐿️ | Will chase moving objects (squirrels, cats). | Never let them off-leash in unsecured areas. |
💡 Expert Tip: Start training from day one! Malamutes respond best to short, engaging sessions rather than long, repetitive drills. Avoid harsh corrections, as they can become resistant or even rebellious.
❓ Comment 16: “Can Alaskan Malamutes be good apartment dogs?”
Malamutes are NOT ideal for apartment living due to their large size, high energy levels, and need for space. However, with extreme dedication, it is possible under the right conditions.
🚪 Challenge | 🚨 Why It’s a Problem? | ✅ How to Manage It |
---|---|---|
Exercise Needs 🏃 | Malamutes require 2+ hours of exercise daily. | Commit to long walks, hikes, or dog sports. |
Size & Space 📏 | Large dogs need room to move freely. | Have an open-floor apartment with access to parks. |
Noise & Vocalization 🗣️ | Howling may disturb neighbors. | Train the “quiet” command early. |
Destructive Behavior 🛋️ | Bored Malamutes will chew furniture or dig at carpets. | Mental stimulation: puzzle toys, obedience drills. |
💡 Expert Tip: Apartments with access to large parks, dog daycare options, and committed owners may work for Malamutes. But they thrive best in spacious homes with fenced yards.
❓ Comment 17: “How often do Alaskan Malamutes shed?”
Malamutes are one of the heaviest shedders in the dog world, with two major coat-blowing seasons per year and constant light shedding year-round.
🐕🦺 Shedding Type | 🔄 How Often? | ✅ How to Manage It |
---|---|---|
Daily Shedding ✂️ | Light shedding occurs year-round. | Brush 2–3 times per week to reduce buildup. |
Coat Blowing (Spring & Fall) 🍂❄️ | Heavy shedding for 2–4 weeks, twice a year. | Daily brushing, deshedding tools, and baths help control loose fur. |
Indoor Heating Effect 🔥 | Warm indoor air can trigger excessive shedding in winter. | Use humidifiers and avoid overheating your home. |
💡 Expert Tip: Invest in a high-powered pet vacuum and a Furminator brush to stay ahead of fur buildup. Bathing during coat-blowing seasons helps loosen dead fur.
❓ Comment 18: “Do Alaskan Malamutes like water?”
Malamutes are not natural water lovers like retrievers, but some enjoy swimming if introduced positively.
🏊 Water Behavior | ❌ Why Some Malamutes Avoid It | ✅ How to Encourage Swimming |
---|---|---|
Some enjoy wading 🌊 | Coat becomes heavy when wet. | Start with shallow, slow-moving water. |
Most dislike baths 🚿 | Thick fur retains water, making drying difficult. | Use lukewarm water and gentle handling. |
Can learn to swim 🏊♂️ | No natural water-repelling coat. | Use a dog life jacket for confidence. |
💡 Expert Tip: If your Malamute hates water, don’t force them! They are built for snow, not swimming, but some individuals enjoy cooling off in shallow lakes or pools.
❓ Comment 19: “Are Malamutes good with kids?”
Malamutes can be wonderful family dogs, but their size and playfulness require supervision with young children.
👨👩👧 Compatibility with Kids | ✅ Positive Traits | ⚠️ Challenges to Consider |
---|---|---|
Older Kids (7+ years) 🏃 | Playful, affectionate, and strong. | May knock over small children unintentionally. |
Toddlers (Under 3) 👶 | Gentle when trained properly. | Requires constant supervision due to size and energy. |
Pre-Teens & Teens 🏕️ | Great adventure partners. | Needs structured training to prevent rough play. |
💡 Expert Tip: Teach children how to properly interact with Malamutes—no ear pulling, food teasing, or roughhousing. Always supervise playtime to ensure safety.