Malamute Facts (Short Version):

There is no such breed as a "Giant Malamute". Their natural size ranges from 22" to 27" at the shoulder, weighing 60 to 100 pounds. Selectively breeding for size alone has created what some people tout as a "Giant". The inherent health problems of any large breed is usually exacerbated by this breeding strategy.

Malamutes can withstand a wide range of temperatures and live happily. They will be less active in the heat of summer, but with enough shade and fresh water have no problem acclimatizing to the weather.
As much as Malamutes like people, they tend to dislike other dogs, especially dogs of the same sex.  This breed does not make good dog park dogs - they can and do get along with other dogs, but rare is the malamute that gets along with every other dog.  If you want a dog park and play with other dogs to be your malamute's main form of exercise, then this is not the breed for you.

It is NOT impossible to obedience train a Malamute, but it will be more difficult than with some other breeds. Their intelligence and quick learning ability makes repeating exercises very boring to them and they tend to have the attitude "What's in it for me?".

The Alaskan Malamute is not a "barker", but some of them will "talk" a great deal. Some of this will indeed sound and feel like a "conversation" and can be quite amusing.
Malamutes shed - a lot.  Usually twice a year with the changing of seasons, but some can shed year round.

Malamutes dig - they are more than happy to participate in re-sculpting your yard.  Many mal owners combat this by providing them an area where they can dig.

Alaskan Malamute have brown eyes - never blue like their Siberian Husky cousins.  Some mal x sibe mixes may have blue eyes.

The Alaskan Malamute is not a "barker", but some of them will "talk" a great deal. Some of this will indeed sound and feel like a "conversation" and can be quite amusing.

Malamutes have a very high prey drive - no outside furred or feathered animal is safe, and great care has to be taken when introducing a malamute to a home with other exotic pets, including cats, birds, small rodents.
Malamutes are extremely food motivated.  The ancestors of today's Malamutes when not used for sledging were traditionally turned loose and had to fend for their own.  Malamutes have retained this foraging characteristic, are usually more than happy to eat whatever is put in front of them and what is within easy reach.  They tend to need less food than other breeds of like size, therefore portion control when feeding is a must.