Saarloos Wolf Dog (Origins, Traits + Care)
Have you ever heard of the Saarloos Wolfdog? This intriguing wolf dog breed is a hybrid originating from the Netherlands!
Bred from a mix of German Shepherds and Eurasian wolves, this magnificent animal possesses a blend of wild beauty and domesticated loyalty.
Since welcoming Cruze, our 5-year-old mid-content wolf dog, into our family in 2018, we’ve been captivated by the world of wolves and wolf dogs. This fascination has driven our passion to be a reliable source of information for fellow owners.
In this post, I give you the inside scoop on owning a Saarloos wolf dog as a pet! You’ll learn all the nitty-gritty details, including their origins, temperament, appearance, training, and exercise needs and more! At the end, we will provide a list of must-have Saarloos wolf dog supplies!
The Saarloos wolf dog breed was developed in the Netherlands by Leendert Saarloos, a Dutch zoologist and dog breeder, in the early 1970s.
Saarloos wanted to create a working dog that was both intelligent and loyal that would retain the best characteristics of both species.
Saarloos aimed to bring back the untamed qualities that he believed had been lost in the German Shepherd breed.
To create a Saarloos Wolf Dog, a German Shepherd was crossed with a Carpathian Wolf, a subspecies of the Eurasian Grey Wolf, resulting in a dog that shares many characteristics with both parent breeds.
The offspring resulting from the initial crossbreeding were then further bred back with German Shepherds to establish the breed.
The Dutch Kennel Club recognized the Saarloos Wolfdog in 1975, and it was recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1981.
Saarloos Wolfdog Traits
Appearance
One look at the Saarloos Wolfdog, and its striking resemblance to the grey wolf becomes evident. With a strongly built physique, these dogs exude power and grace.
Saarloos wolf dogs typically have a long, slender body with a strong, balanced gait and a regal presence that commands attention.
Saarloos wolf dogs have large, erect ears and a long, bushy tail.
Their eyes are almond-shaped, often surrounded by a dark ring. The color of the eyes are typically yellow and can vary from light yellow to amber.
Their wolf-like appearance combined with their regal stature is sure to turn heads wherever they go.
Physical Traits
As far as physical capabilities go, Saarloos wolf dogs are large and powerful dogs.
They typically stand between 24 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 65 and 100 pounds.
Coat and Coloring
Saarloos wolfdogs have a thick, double coat that consists of a harsh, straight outer coat and a soft, woolly undercoat, which helps them withstand harsh climates.
The undercoat is most noticeable in the winter, when it helps to keep the dog warm. In the summer, the dog sheds its undercoat and the topcoat becomes more noticeable.
The most common color for Saarloos wolfdogs is wolf grey. However, they can also be brown or white.
Grey and brown sarrloos wolf dogs often have pale creamy white or white markings on the underside of the body, the inner sides of the legs, the breeches, and under the tail.
Saarloos wolfdog coats require regular grooming when they are “blowing their coat”. They should be brushed at least once a week to remove dead hair and prevent mats. They should also be bathed as needed.
Temperament and Personality
Saarloos Wolf Dogs possess a unique combination of characteristics inherited from both their wolf and dog heritage. They are often reserved and aloof with strangers, but they form deep bonds with their families.
Saarloos wolf dogs are known for their friendly and protective nature. They are loyal to their owners and can be very affectionate, but they can also be wary of strangers. This is because they are descended from wolves, which are pack animals that are naturally protective of their own.
Saarloos wolf dogs are not typically aggressive, but they may bark or growl if they feel threatened. They are not good guard dogs, however, because they are not confrontational. Instead, they are more likely to run away from danger.
With proper socialization, Saarloos wolf dogs can grow up to be gentle, kind, and friendly dogs who love to be around others.
If you’re struggling with wolf dog behavior problems, you’re not alone, read more about the most common behavior problems and how to solve them!
Training A Saarloos Wolf Dog
Saarloos Wolfdogs are known for their high intelligence and independent nature. Training them requires a calm and patient approach, as they won’t easily comply with commands.
When working with these dogs, it is crucial not to reward undesirable behavior, such as aggression, and avoid overindulging them with food rewards that may foster a sense of power.
Consistency and positive reinforcement based on good behavior are key to effectively training your Saarloos Wolfdog.
Exercise Needs for a Saarloos Wolf Dog
Saarloos wolfdogs are very high-maintenance dogs. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, and they can be destructive if they are not properly exercised.
These dogs thrive in environments where they have ample space to roam and explore. Regular exercise, both physical and mental, is vital to keep them happy and balanced.
Engaging them in activities like obedience training, agility, and tracking can help keep their minds and bodies active.
Living Arrangements for Saarloos Wolfdogs
Saarloos wolf dogs require an enormous amount of exercise, three to four hours each day.
Saarloos wolf dogs will require 8ft tall fence that is escape-proof and equipped with lean-ins and anti-digging wire to prevent them from digging under and running away.
One half to a full acre is required for two wolfdogs where they can roam freely. Saarloos wolf dogs are not well-suited to apartment living.
Saarloos Wolf dogs are social animals and like to be in a pack. If you want a wolf dog, make sure it has a buddy (or two).
Remember, a dog with stimulation is a good dog. A bored dog is an unhappy dog and will probably attempt to escape.
Health and Care
Overall, Saarloos Wolf Dogs are relatively healthy animals. However, like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies.
Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise are essential for their well-being.
Additionally, their thick double coat requires regular grooming to keep it clean and tangle-free.
Saarloos Wolf Dog Diet and Nutrition
Saarloos wolf dogs are large and active dogs, and they need a diet that is high in protein and fat. A raw diet is a good option for Saarloos wolf dogs, as it provides them with the nutrients they need in a form that is easy for them to digest.
A raw diet for a Saarloos wolf dog should consist of:
- 50% muscle meat (chicken, beef, lamb, etc.)
- 25% bone (raw chicken, beef, lamb, etc.)
- 25% organs (heart, liver, kidney, etc.)
Raw diets are a good option for Saarloos wolf dogs, but they can be expensive. If you are not able to afford a raw diet, you can feed your Saarloos wolf dog a high-quality kibble diet. When choosing a kibble diet, look for one that is made with real meat and that has a high protein content.
Looking for insights on a balanced and nourishing diet for wolf dogs? Read our guide!
Our Favorite Raw Food For Our Wolf Dog
We love feeding Cruze a healthy and nutritious diet with Raw Paws Dog Food Delivery.
With their wide selection of raw, natural, and organic dog food, you can trust that your dog is getting the best quality ingredients without any harmful additives or preservatives.
Not only does Raw Paws offer a variety of meal options to suit your dog’s dietary needs, but they also provide fast and reliable delivery straight to your door.
Ownership Considerations
Owning a Saarloos Wolf Dog is a significant commitment that requires time, effort, and dedication. Potential owners should have prior experience with large, intelligent breeds and be prepared to invest in proper training and socialization. It is essential to research local regulations and restrictions regarding wolf hybrids before considering this breed.
Read more: 20 Wolf Dog Breeds You Can Own!
Are Saarloos Wolfdogs friendly?
Saarloos Wolfdogs are known for their independent and reserved nature. While they can form strong bonds with their owners and be loyal, they may not display the same level of friendliness and outgoing behavior as some other dog breeds.
It’s important to socialize them from an early age and provide positive experiences with various people and animals to help them develop good social skills. However, individual personalities can vary, so some Saarloos Wolfdogs may be more sociable and friendly than others.
Are saarloos wolfdogs good pets?
Saarloos Wolfdogs can make good pets for experienced owners who understand their unique needs and characteristics. They are intelligent, independent, and require a firm and consistent approach to training. With proper socialization, training, and a dedicated owner, Saarloos Wolfdogs can thrive in a loving home environment.
How much does a saarloos wolfdog cost?
When looking for a Saarloos wolfdog puppy for sale, know that the average cost ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on age and breeder.
The price tag for a Saarloos wolf dog might seem like it’s high compared to other breeds out there – after all this type of animal isn’t exactly an everyday pet because Saarloos wolf puppies need trained handlers as well as plenty of space.
But remember to consider all these hidden costs before buying one: food, vet visits/plans for emergencies as well as a large backyard enclosure.
Our advice – make sure that you get your Saarloos wolf dog from a reputable breeder. If they don’t require an interview, look somewhere else.
Learn about the lesser-known financial obligations that come with owning a wolf dog.
Saarloos Wolfdog Ownership Laws in the US
Generally speaking, it is legal to own a Saarloos wolf dog in the United States. However, there are some states that have specific laws and restrictions about owning this breed.
In some states, Saarloos wolfdogs are classified as wild animals and owners are required to possess the same type of permits and caging as for a wild wolf.
In other states, Saarloos wolfdogs are regulated as domestic dogs, needing only proper vaccinations and licenses.
Additionally, there are some states where wolfdogs of any kind are completely illegal and they are not allowed to be kept as a pet under any circumstance. These states include Alaska, Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, North Dakota, Wyoming, and Rhode Island.
If you are considering owning a Saarloos wolfdog, it is important to do your research and find out the laws and regulations in your state. Read more about the laws of wolfdog ownership.
Things We Bought For Our Wolf Dog
Owning a wolfdog means you need a whole arsenal of supplies for keeping them safe, entertained, (and allowing us to maintain our sanity). This is a list of things I wish someone would have recommend to us:
Bandanas: Cruze loves to run free in the woods, but we understand the concerns of fellow hikers and dog owners who may mistake him for a threat. That’s why we came up with a solution to put a cute handmade bandana on him. This will ensure that everyone can see that Cruze is a friendly dog and can approach him without any worry. Plus, if you use the code CRUZE15 at checkout, you can get a 15% discount on your purchase.
GPS Tracker: The Link My Pet’s GPS tracking device is an easy and reliable way to ensure that we can always keep an eye on Cruze’s location. The device easily attaches to any collar and has a secure clip that ensures it stays in place. We love how it’s lightweight and compact, so it doesn’t weigh down Cruze’s collar or cause any discomfort.
Calming Chews: These calming chews are made with all-natural, organic ingredients and contain 5mg of CBD per bite, which helps to support calm behavior in dogs. We found that they helped to reduce Cruze’s anxiety during long car rides and made the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
No Pull Harness: This harness has been amazing for taking Cruze on our hikes and walks. He gets excited and will pull your arm off if you’re not careful. This harness prevents him from pulling so hard by redirecting him towards you when he pulls. Jake says it has made walking Cruze a whole lot easier.
Saarloos Wolf Dog Genetic Testing
There are DNA tests available that help owners determine the amount of wolf blood in the wolf dog. Embark is currently the most accurate and reliable dog DNA testing to allow you to get a breakdown of your dogs breed mix.
Owning A Saarloos Wolf Dog Final Thoughts
Our goal is to be your go-to source of information, offering comprehensive insights into the world of owning a Saarloos Wolfdog.
We are dedicated to sharing our knowledge, experiences, and valuable tips to help you navigate the journey of owning this remarkable breed.
Don’t forget to check out our other blog posts, where we delve into various topics related to wolf dogs!
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