9 Wolf-like dog breeds: know the difference and choose wisely

Video: Living With A Wolf or Wolfdog

Wolf-type dogs have a special place in our hearts. Wolf-like dog breeds are large, beautiful, powerful animals that possess a “cool-factor” that some people can’t resist. There is just something about owning such an impressive animal that appeals to certain people.

When looking for wolf-like dog breeds to have as a pet, there are quite a few breeds to consider. Wolf hybrids are available, too, and there are many combinations from which to choose. For those of us who prefer to go with a tried and true domestic dog, there are lots of breeds that have that cool wolf look without the wolf disposition.

Some domestic dogs have been bred intentionally to look like wolves while others just look that way naturally. You need to know the difference between all of these breeds and do some research. You may want a dog that looks cool, but you need to select a breed that’s going to fit with your lifestyle as well.

Wolf-Like Dog Breeds: Know the Difference and Choose Wisely

Video: The Best 7 Dogs That Look Like Wolves

Wolf-dog Hybrids

Wolf-dog hybrids are bred with certain characteristics in mind. The idea is to end up with a wolf hybrid that has a good combination of wolf and domestic dog looks and disposition. These are carefully cultivated hybrids that have actually become named breeds.

• Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs became a recognized dog breed in 1982. They are the result of a cross between German Shepherd dogs and Carpathian Wolves. Generally, these are slightly smaller wolf-dog hybrids that grow to 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh between 44 and 54 pounds but they can be larger. They look very much like wolves.
• More on them on Wikipedia

• The Saarlooswolfhond or Saarloos Wolf Dog became a breed in 1975. This Dutch dog breed is the result of crossing German Shepherds with Canadian Timber Wolves. They are 24 to 30 inches tall, weigh 80 to 90 pounds and look very much like wolves. You may have to go to the Netherlands to get one, if you decide you want one of these wolf-like dog breeds. They are very rare.
• More on them on Wikipedia

• Wolador dogs are a cross between Timber Wolves and Labrador Retrievers. These are large dogs that mature to 100 to 175 pounds. They tend to have black, black/tan, brown or red Labrador Retriever-type coats.

• Wolamutes are Malamute X Timber or Gray Wolf hybrids. They are large animals, commonly weighing between 115 and 175 pounds. Wolamutes can look very wolf-like or could look more like a Malamute.
• More on them on Wikipedia

Wolf-dog hybrids might or might not be registered breeds with set breeding standards that are strictly adhered to. Be extremely cautious if you decide to get one of these animals. Inherited characteristics will vary, depending on the breeds crossed.

Try to find a reputable breeder that can give you some assurance of what the puppy will grow into. A good breeder will also share important information with you about how to care for the dog as far as training, grooming and vaccinations.

Video: Best 11 dogs that look like wolves

Some wolf-like dog breeds have special requirements beyond the obvious. For example, wolf-dog hybrids may have a serious reaction to a vaccination containing leptospira bacterin. A reputable dog breeder will be able to explain this type of information to you.

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