The Alaskan Malamute is considered the oldest breed of sled dog. It is a strong and courageous dog with phenomenal endurance, and it has served as a freighting dog for many years. Today, it is one of the favorite breeds among dog owners, and it is widely recognized around the world. Some of the major associations that recognize the Alaskan Malamute are the FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, NKC, NZKC, CKC, APRI, ACR and others.

The AKC, or the American Kennel Club, is the most important registry of purebred dogs in the USA. The Alaskan Malamute is one of the many dogs recognized by the AKC. The purpose of this association is to improve and protect the breed, and members of the AKC take measures to ensure that the Alaskan Malamute is free from exploitation. It is probably the largest association that recognizes this breed, and it is affiliated to many local Alaskan Malamute clubs. Other areas of interest of the AKC include awarding, shows, public and judge education, specialties, agility, work, genetics, health, and obedience. Another association in the USA that recognizes the Alaskan Malamute is the United Kennel Club, or the UKC. This association has been in operation for more than a hundred years.

The KCGB or the Kennel Club of Great Britain is a dog association in the UK with a long history. Throughout the years, it has dedicated much time and effort towards the general improvement of purebreds, including the Alaskan Malamute. It is also involved in the organization of dog shows and other canine activities. The Alaskan Malamute Club of the United Kingdom is another dog association in the UK that promotes the breed. This association was formed in the year 1964 by a small group of Alaskan Malamute enthusiasts. Back in the 60s, there were only a few Alaskan Malamutes found in the country, but due to the efforts of the club to promote the Alaskan Malamute, the popularity of the breed has greatly increased.

In Canada, one major club that recognizes the Alaskan malamute is the CKC or the Canadian Kennel Club. Generally, it is responsible for the Canadian breed standards of the Alaskan Malamute. The Alaskan Malamute is also a registered breed with the FCI, or Federation Cynologique Internationale, which is a worldwide canine organization that promotes and preserves pure breeds. The other associations are the NKC or National Kennel Club, NZKC or New Zealand Kennel Club, another CKC which is the Continental Kennel Club, APRI or American Pet Registry Inc., and ACR or American Canine Registry.

Aside from these associations and clubs, there is also the AMCC or the Alaskan Malamute Club of Canada. This club had proposed to the Canadian Kennel Club that the breed standards should be based on the Alaskan Malamutes standards of the country of origin. As a result, the AKC standards were somewhat revised to accommodate that of the CKC standards and requirements.