Wolf Dog Hybrid: The Honest Truth about Owning A Pet Wolf
Wolf dog ownership undoubtably makes for a lot of interesting moments, conversations, and entertainment.
And although the idea of owning a wolf dog or wolf hybrid may seem appealing, it’s important to understand that it’s not a decision that should be taken lightly.
Because I’ll be the first (and probably not last) to admit that owning a wolf dog is not easy, and it comes with significant responsibility.
In this post, I give you the inside scoop on owning a wolf dog as a pet! You’ll learn all the nitty-gritty details, including the difference between wolf dogs and hybrids, their behavior, training expectations, feeding requirements, size potential, legal considerations, how to handle winter wolf syndrome, puppy care tips and more!
At the end, I’ll give you recommendations of things we bought to help keep Cruze safe, entertained, and our sanity intact.
So, if you are wondering what it is like owning a wolf dog as a pet, here is our complete guide.
Please note that there may be affiliate links scattered throughout this fantastic, informative, and entirely free content. Rest assured that should you make a purchase through any of my links (at no extra cost to you), I’ll earn a small commission which I’ll absolutely blow on adult things like dog toys and chai tea.
Difference Between A Wolf Hybrid And Wolf Dog
A wolf hybrid is a cross between a domestic dog and a pure wolf or a wolf dog and a pure wolf. Half dog, half wolf.
This can be accomplished by breeding a pure wolf with another species of domestic dog, like German shepherds, Alaskan Malamute or Husky, producing offspring who have traits from both parents.
The result is what is called an F1 cross or first-generation wolf hybrid. In order for an F1 match to occur, the pure wolf must usually be kept in captivity.
A wolf dog is the multi-generational selective breeding of a wolf dog to another wolfdog or dog.
The vast majority of wolf dogs are actually 2, 3, or 4 generations removed from a pure wolf. In other words, their lineage includes one or more dogs between the pure wolf and the wolf dog.
If you’re confused about the genetic relationship wolf dogs and wolf hybrids share, learn more here: The Difference Between a Wolf Dog and A Wolf Hybrid.
History of Wolf Dogs
The history of wolf dogs dates back to thousands of years ago when early humans began domesticating wolves to help with hunting and protection.
The first documented breeding of wolf dogs occurred in the 18th century when a British man named General John Burgoyne crossed his dogs with wolves in an attempt to create a more powerful and resilient hunting dog.
However, it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that the breeding of wolf dogs became more widespread and popular among dog enthusiasts.
With the mixing of genes over several generations, most wolf mixed dogs are more dog than wolf and have been selectively bred to have certain behavioral characteristics and physical appearances.
However, owning a wolf breed still requires extensive knowledge, training and dedication as these canine wolf hybrid crosses have mannerism that make them challenging to own.
The temperament of each wolfdog mix differs, so you never really know what you are getting into and deliberate socialization and training is necessary.
Characteristics Of A Wolf Dog Mix
There are a lot of romantic and mystic notions that make some people want to own a wolf or wolf-dog hybrid because they are intrigued or fascinated by the way wolfdogs look—which is totally understandable.
But the reality is that wolf hybrids are not domestic dogs. They do not behave like regular dogs and they can be extremely high-maintenance.
While gray wolves and domestic dogs can easily interbreed and produce viable offspring, there is no guarantee what behavioral traits and genetic composition a wolf hybrid pup will inherit.
With wolf-dog crosses, the higher the percentage of wolf genes, the more wolf-like behavior and wolf like appearance the hybrid will exhibit.
This is true in many ways with our wolf pet. Cruze does not eat like a dog, act like a dog, walk like a dog, and he certainly does not sound like a dog (yes he howls). And he has destroyed more things than I can count.
WOLF CONTENT
Even though he is mixed with german shepherd, malemute, and husky, he is 57% Gray Wolf and is considered a mid-content wolf dog.
Mid and low-content wolfdogs are generally easier to handle than high content wolf dogs. They are more social, easier to train and have less destructive behaviors.
GENITIC 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.
How we got our Pet Wolfdog
Cruze was part of a 15-year breeding program in Florida where Jake picked him up when he was only 4 weeks old. Jake had to go through an extensive interview process to ensure he was a good fit to own a wolf puppy.
When Jake picked Cruze up from the wolf hybrid breeders, he was still so little that he had to be fed through a bottle.
How much does a wolfdog cost?
Jake bought Cruze for $1,000. When looking for a wolfdog puppy for sale, know that the average cost for a wolf dog puppy ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on age and breeder.
The wolfdog price tag might seem like it’s high compared to other breeds out there – after all this type of animal isn’t exactly an every day pet because wolf hybrid 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 wolf dog from a reputable wolf dog breeder. If they don’t require an interview, look somewhere else.
Getting Through the Wolfdog Puppy Phase
Wolf dog and hybrid breeds take longer than other dogs to mature. But they grow (in size) at a rapid rate.
They have puppy energy and misbehaving tendencies they don’t grow out until they are about 3 or 4 years old.
Wolf dog and hybrid puppies need specific socialization and training needs. Once they are past 8 weeks old, it is time to start introducing them to potentially frightening stimulation.
Gradually expose your wolf pup to anything BIG and LOUD such as vacuum cleaners, bikes, cars, kids. Get them into as many new situations as you can so they are less fearful of them as an adult.
With most wolf mix puppies, it is common to wait until they are 2 years old to get them spayed/neutered.
Unfortunately, the litter Cruze was born with has had two fatalities while going under anesthesia. But we were able to take Cruze to a reputable vet who has operated on many wolves and wolf dog breeds, and our boy had a successful surgery December 2020.
The reason we got him neutered in the first place was due to the intensity of his Winter Wolf Syndrome (more on that later).
Wolf Dog Size
At four years old, Cruze is a BIG boy weighing over 100lbs. He towers over our other two dogs and is bigger than 90% of dogs at the Dog Park. His paws are the size of my hand and he is as tall as me when he stands on his back two legs (I’m 5’5’’).
WOLFDOG HEIGHT & WEIGHT
Wolf breed dogs can be anywhere from 60 lbs-120lbs. Females tend to be on the smaller side. The higher the wolf content, the taller the wolf dog will be.
GROOMING
Wolf dogs have a double coat, meaning like huskies they get a THICK winter coat that sheds in the spring. This is called “blowing their coat” and all of the undercoat falls out in clumps. During the spring, a lot of grooming is necessary.
WOLF DOG LIFESPAN
Wolf dogs are typically exceptionally healthy dogs. They do not usually have genetic health problems. Wolf dogs can, however, still be inflicted with fleas, ticks and heart-worm so preventative measures are necessary.
Wolf dogs should also be properly vaccinated (make sure to find a reputable vet that will care for and allow your wolf dog to be treated properly at their clinic).
How long do wolf dogs live? Their life expectancy is anywhere from 13-16 years. It is a BIG commitment, and one you should consider responsibly.
Are Pet Wolf Dogs Obedient?
Cruze is very smart. He is definitely more intelligent than our other two dogs in many ways. But he has NOT been easy to train. He knows some basic commands like sit, and shake.
Wolf dogs, in general, are not as eager to please their owner as a domestic dog. So Cruze knows what ‘no’ means but chooses not to listen to us the majority of the time. It has taken a lot of patience to raise him.
When we are out in the woods away from any people, we will let him off the leash. We put an orange bandana around his neck to hopefully let anyone know who might see him, that he is not a wild wolf.
He usually stays close to us, but does not come when we call unless we bribe him with a very tasty treat (like pepperoni or hot dogs) and sometimes that doesn’t even work. He is highly intelligent and has a mind of his own.
Sometimes he will chase after deer and we have to wait for him to come back. But we have let him off the leash enough to know that he will not run away for long. Cruze is a very independent Wolf dog.
However, we have found a solution that gives us the peace of mind we need when Cruze is off-leash. With Link My Pet’s GPS tracking device, we can always track his whereabouts and make sure he’s safe and sound.
Whether we’re hiking in the mountains or he’s running around at camp, we know that we can always keep an eye on Cruze’s location.
If you’re looking for a reliable tracking device for your pet, we highly recommend Link My Pet.
Wolf Dog Behavior
Wolfdogs are loving, loyal creatures that will stay by your side no matter what. Hybrid wolf crosses get very attached to their owners.
Their loyalty is unmatched, and when they are adopted at a young age, their owner has the opportunity to form an intense bond with them and stick by you faithfully.
But you might be wondering what a wolf dog temperament is? Here are some behaviors you can expect from a mid content wolf dog.
FRIENDLY
Wolf dog hybrids are generally friendly towards others but have been known to become aggressive when they feel threatened or in danger.
HIGHLY INTELLIGENT
Wolfdogs are very intelligent animals, and they should be treated as such! They enjoy mental stimulation and need to have tasks for them to do on a regular basis.
TIMID/SHY NATURE
Shy by nature, wolf dogs can be difficult to socialize. When wolf puppies are not socialized early in life, they can remain skittish to strangers all their lives. They need lots of outdoor time and human interaction in order to thrive socially.
NEEDS HIS FAMILY
Pet wolf-dog hybrids require the presence of their families and are uncomfortable when left alone. These types of dogs possess a pack mentality and thus require a fellow canine or consistent human companionship. Providing your wolf-dog with companionship is crucial in preventing him from feeling isolated.
SEPERATION ANXIETY
Unfortunately, Wolf pets have major separation anxiety. They will destroy everything in a frantic panic when you leave them alone inside. It has helped having our other two dogs around when we leave Cruze alone. Since wolves communicate through touch–petting him also helps him feel less anxious.
DESTUCTIVE BEHAVIORS
Being considered wild animals, if wolf dog hybrids are left on their own for too long or neglected in any way, they will become destructive out of boredom or loneliness.
HIGH ENERGY
Wolfdogs have high energy and need to be provided with the right environment that is stimulating. They require a lot of exercise every day, because they can become destructive if they don’t have enough mental stimulation.
Dealing With Winter Wolf Syndrome
One problem people may face when adopting their new best friend is dealing with winter wolf syndrome.
As autumn arrives and the daylight hours decrease while the air gets colder, a change comes over our usually friendly and gentle wolfdogs, as they start exhibiting signs of irritability or hostility.
Winter Wolf Syndrome, a term that was originally associated with wolves, refers to the intense hormonal shifts that occur in wolf communities during breeding season.
Some wolf dogs become less compliant or more defiant, while others become fiercely possessive of their things, growling to signal their desire for personal space.
You might be wondering how to handle your hybrid wolf pet during these months. You can’t stop the behavior change, but once mating season is over (Oct-March) they will go back to their old self again.
Are Wolf Dogs Safe?
Wolf dogs are the most misunderstood and mismanaged animals in the United States.
Due to their wild ancestry, many people believe that wolf dogs are dangerous and unpredictable. However, the truth is that wolf dogs can make wonderful companions. They are intelligent and trainable, and they form strong bonds with their owners.
Wolf dogs are no more dangerous than any other dog. The only thing that can make them become dangerous is poor breeding with a high COI (inbred score) or if they are sick.
That being said, most wolf dog cross breeds are docile, non-aggressive creatures that just need love and attention from their owners.
Wolf dog Diet
What do you feed a half dog half wolf breed? Do they eat the same things as domestic dogs, or are there some important differences in a wolf dog hybrids diet that you should know about before feeding them anything?
Wild wolves subsist on a diet of deer, elk and other furry creatures. The average wild wolf may eat its fill once every few days or weeks depending upon prey abundance.
Wolf dogs and hybrids are descendants of wolves, which means your pet wolf dog will eat a diet full of raw meat. Their diets require special attention. Wolf dogs need a diet that is high in fat and protein to get the nutrients needed to maintain their health. Which means, wolf dogs are not satisfied with typical dog food.
To keep your wolf dog healthy, it’s important to give them a well-balanced diet. We feed Cruze about 20lbs of raw meat a week including chicken leg quarters, turkey gizzards, and beef heart. He also likes pumpkin and some fruit.
Do not feed ANY cooked chicken bones because it is dangerous for them to consume.
This diet is much more expensive than any other dog diet, so you must take this into consideration if you are thinking about owning one a wolf dog as a pet.
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.
Plus, with their subscription service, you can save even more time and money by having your dog’s meals delivered on a regular basis.
Wolf dogs as Pets
Many people decide to own wolf dog as pets because of their beauty and wild spirit, but unfortunately, they do not understand the requirements Wolf dogs need and are overwhelmed with their behavioral challenges.
This creates a population of unwanted wolf dogs that end up chained up in backyards, abandoned or euthanized. However, they can make wonderful, loyal pets if done the right way.
Are wolf dogs good pets?
Wolf dogs make excellent companions who crave human contact just like any canine pet would want. They are extra loving, intelligent and playful four legged friends.
With all of Cruzes beauty and charm comes a lot of responsibility. Owning a wolf dog is a privilege and a job. Cruze is independent, has separation anxiety, is destructive by nature but incredibly smart.
Cruze has a kind soul and expresses exactly how he feels about someone he loves. And there is something quite special and wild about seeing him run free. We love Cruze and have been fortunate to be able to give him a fulfilling life.
Training a Wolf Dog
The process of training a gray wolf mix can be quite difficult and truly requires patience. Wolfdogs are notoriously stubborn, but that doesn’t mean they’re impossible to train.
Just like wolves, wolf dogs are naturally skittish and fearful animals, so it is important to expose them as wolf pups to lots of different people, locations, and situations. Otherwise they may be overly shy when meeting new dogs later on in life.
If you would like your wolf dog pup to grow into an affectionate adult that welcomes novelties with enthusiasm instead of fearfulness then ensure he has early exposure while still young!
Wolf Dogs and Car Rides
Unfortunately, being cooped up in a car can make Cruze a bit antsy and restless, which can turn the ride into a stressful experience for both of us. He becomes anxious, agitated, and seems to be constantly searching for a way to escape the truck.
We tried different remedies, but nothing seemed to work until we discovered Stress Releaf Peanut Butter CBD Edibites.
We simply give him a couple of chews before we start the car ride, and within a few minutes, we notice a significant improvement in his behavior.
Living Conditions for Domesticated Wolf Breeds
This is where owning a domesticated wolf breed can get expensive. Wolf dogs require an enormous amount of exercise, three to four hours each day. Most low and some mid-content wolfdogs can live within a normal size fence and not be an escape artist.
However, some mid-contents and all high-content 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.
Remember, a dog with stimulation is a good dog, a bored dog is an unhappy dog and will probably attempt to escape.
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).
Is it Legal to Own a Wolf dog?
Generally speaking, it is legal to own a wolf dog, however, some states have specific laws and restrictions about owning a wolf dog.
In some states, hybrids 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, hybrids are regulated as domestic dogs, needing only proper vaccinations and licenses.
There are specific states where wolf dogs are completely illegal and wolf dogs are not allowed to be kept as a pet at all. These states include Alaska, Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, North Dakota, Wyoming, and Rhode Island.
Always verify the legality of a wolfdog in your state before you decide to own a wolf hybrid.
Volunteer at A Wolf Sanctuary
If you still haven’t decided if a wolf dog is the right pet for your family, please consider volunteering at one of the many wolf sanctuaries in the US and learn all about them before making any decisions.
Wolf sanctuaries and rescues are usually overflowing with wild wolves, wolf dogs and wolf hybrids because back yard breeders sell to people who are unprepared or unqualified to care for these powerful, high-energy canines and they are given up.
Thousands of wolf dog hybrids end up being euthanized each year because there isn’t enough space or resources for their care.
In order to put a stop to this cycle, we need to education potential buyers about the responsibility that comes with owning a wolf dog.
What it’s like Living Tiny with a Pet Wolf Dog
Living tiny is an adjustment for most people. It’s not always easy owning a wolfdog as a pet while living in such a tiny space. Add in 2 more domestic dogs and your space just got a whole lot smaller. (Yes, we do have 3 dogs).
Obviously living tiny and traveling a lot, we do not have a backyard for Cruze to roam around in, but he does have a 25 ft cable that we keep him on with our husky, Bella. And they enjoying playing with each other all day long. It is safer to have them both on cables as they will wander off.
We take Cruze on hikes with us and he goes on a lot of walks. We also take him to the Dog park whenever we find one. He loves socializing with other dogs!
Things We Bought for our Wolf Dog Hybrid Mix
Owning a wolfdog means you need a whole arsenal of supplies for keeping him 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.
Dog Bowl: We feed Cruze 2-3lbs of raw meat a day and having a bowl that cleans easy and that he can’t destroy is a win. And for owners who value aesthetics, elevated pet bowls can be a stylish addition to any home. We love the look of this Terrazzo dog bowl.
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.
Bully Chews: Highly recommend for any dog, but especially Wolfdogs in their puppy phase. Having bones and treats that keeps them preoccupied helps prevent them from chewing on your sofa, your shoes, carpet, etc.
Owning A Pet Wolfdog Final Thoughts
If you are thinking about owning a pet wolf dog, I hope this helped you understand the requirements necessary to make sure they are in the right home.
Just remember that all Wolf dogs need much more attention, patience, and training than any domestic dog. I do recommend you educate yourself thoroughly before deciding to have a wolfdog in your life as it is a lifestyle adjustment.
Have you ever met a wolfdog in person? What was is it like? Comment down below!
Hopefully, this gave you a good idea of what it is really like living tiny with a wolfdog.
Thank you for being here! Follow Cruze’s adventures on Instagram, We’d love to have you.
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Hi Nicoll,
Cruze is so handsome. Did you have any Alpha tendencies from him when he was younger and going through his “teenage” years? If so, how did you handle those?
Best wishes,
Pierre
Hi Pierre, thank you for your kind words about Cruze! As with any young dog, there were certainly times when he exhibited some alpha tendencies during his teenage years. The concept of alpha behavior in wolf dogs is controversial, but I can share some of the things I did to help Cruze learn appropriate behavior.
One thing that was really helpful was consistent, positive reinforcement training. Whenever Cruze exhibited desirable behavior, like sitting politely or walking calmly on a leash, I would reward him with praise, treats, or toys. This helped to reinforce those behaviors and encourage him to continue them.
Additionally, I made sure to establish clear boundaries and rules for behavior in the household. For example, I did not allow Cruze to jump up on people or furniture, and I consistently enforced this rule. This helped him to learn appropriate social behavior and understand what was expected of him.
It’s also important to note that socialization is a key aspect of training for young dogs. I made sure to expose Cruze to a variety of people, animals, and environments, so that he could learn how to interact appropriately in different situations.
Thank you for your question, and best wishes to you as well!
We had a wolf when I was a child for a short time. My parents had to turn him over to the wildlife commission. He wasn’t a dog, that’s for sure.. I have known 2 wolf dog owners since I am grown and live in Florida. They are not good owners. I have not had one but I had a rescued Kangal dog, who had similar traits. He loved us, but not so much anyone else. He wouldn’t get in the car for any reason., only listened if he felt like it, and was very destructive. Still he was a great dog. I am getting old now so I have a Mastidane. He’s still a puppy but very lazy, very friendly, much easier to handle, but at 160 it hurts when he hugs! Slobbers a lot too, lol.
Hello from Mexico!
I have. Wolfdog and they are amazing! I love her so much, she is extra loving just as you said. However, they are stubborn indeed! She has a lot of energy and even though we take her running twice a day for 40 minutes she still has energy to play. Definitely, not for a first dog owner. She has a GSD as a companion so I think it has help her to reduce the separation anxiety…. Still she finds something to destroy, so I leave things she can take, like boxes, envelopes, toys.
Anyways, great company and will keep you busy for a long time! However, with patience and love we have managed to train her.
Greetings!
Hi Erika! Thanks for the comment! I agree they are wonderful companion animals and not for first-time owners. We do the same thing with boxes! Allows him to destroy things but not anything we care about! 🙂 Training them is definitely possible, but it will take patience and consistency!
How hard is it to train them and how long dose it normally take?
Great question Dakotah! Training a wolf dog can be a challenging but rewarding experience that takes years of ongoing work. These hybrids are notoriously intelligent and independent, making it difficult to get them to follow commands or obey instructions. However, with patience and persistence, it is possible to train a wolf dog and help them learn how to behave appropriately in different situations. It has taken us the last 4 years of consistent effort and we still find things destroyed from time to time.
Hi – we want a wolfdog for our family! What breeder in FL did you use? I love his look!!
Feel free to email me if you don’t wish it share it publicly 🙂
Hi Jennifer! Wolf Dogs are fun but a lot of work! And I’m sorry, but the breeder we got Cruze from passed away, unfortunately. Best of luck on your search!
A wolf dog was wandering our neighborhood years ago, he was the most gorgeous animal ever and gently, friendly & loving. Some neighbors fed him and wanted him but their spouse was afraid of the big dog, so no one could take him in & eventually animal services came & took him away.
Aww, what a sweet story. I wonder if he was lost from his family. Well-trained wolf dogs are very sweet and approachable. I’m hoping he found a new home!
I had a wolf dog as a child be was the most loyal best friend a boy could have. So many of the issue you bring up were issues we had with him. He hated to be by himself and could not be left alone and once jumped through a large window to try to come with us (broke the window but he was completely unhurt) as we left the house. After that we had to chain him in the basement whenever we left the house. But even with the destroyed curtains and chewed up shoes and many escapes he was so loving, smart and protective.
Boston would walk by my side to the playground and climb the ladder on the large metal slide and slide down after me. No one would ever dream of picking on me with my dog by my side… Once when we were vacationing on the Saint Laurence river I saw him sitting at the top, on the edge of a raised dock and my dad snuck up on him and pushed him off the edge… Boston would not go near my dad for several days, but as the days passed I would see Boston run part way up the dock and jump off the side by himself, eventually he got to the point he would run full speed up the dock and jump off into the river. He was the best. Even after all these years I still miss him.
It sounds like you had an amazing bond with your wolf dog, Boston. I can understand how difficult it must have been to deal with some of the challenges that came with having such a loyal and intelligent pet. It’s clear that despite these challenges, Boston brought so much joy and companionship to your life and was a true friend to you. It’s wonderful to hear that you still cherish the memories you shared with him even after all these years. Thank you for sharing your story with us.
I’m just starting with my third Mal/Wolf. I got her Aprils 2021 at 6 weeks old. As with all my cross pups I set up a tent in the backyard and slept with them for about a week to bond. They have been so much a part of our family over the years and like you said, other than chewing and digging have given us little grief. I was interested to hear about Winter Wolf Syndrome as I had never heard about that before. I noticed last winter she seemed to be a little out of sorts and wasn’t as hungry, this might explain that. I look forward to the next decade with my Little Princess.
How sweet! What a great idea to bond with her in the backyard. Yeah, WWS is common in mid-content and high-content WD’s. We definitely experienced it, but since we got Cruze neutered, he has really calmed down during mating season. We have to watch him though, he will still randomly chew things.. Just today he chewed off his no-pull harness after his walk. *sigh*
Hi, Thanks for your wolfdog tales. We have had Bear, who is almost 11 now, since he was a puppy and he has been the most wonderful friend the whole time. So nanny of your descriptions are just like Bear, who has Malimute, Siberian and Mackenzie Timber Wolf background.
Wolf dogs do require a lot of time and exercise and I have been lucky enough to give him that with my wife Marsha. I live in Northern Alberta so have been able to give him ample opportunity to run. He gets quite excited when he sees any animal in the wild(especially rabbits). He gets super excited when he sees a wild Buffalo cross the road. He catches mice 2 feet down in the snow with a nose dive leap after sensing them 12 feet away. Amazing!
Before my cancer required chemotherapy I would let him pull me (uphill!) on my bicycle. He’s incredibly strong. He can jump over my shoulder and give me a little kiss lick as he goes by. He loves to pull a sled.
He loves to travel. He’s dipped his toes in the Atlantic and the Pacific and rivers from the Mackenzie basin to the Mississippi to the Rio Grande. I even took him to Portugal once( drove him across Canada to lessen the flight time to the Azores).
He loves his pack of two humans and a dozen furry toys.
He is very smart and very independent. His 24 foot long leash helps but he loves to run.
Since my cancer weakened me substantially I still take him for a mile long walk daily, but I’ve had to substitute ‘truck walks’ to give him more ‘out and about and smell the world’ time’. I have leather seats and he jumps between the part open windows on either side constantly as we move along and gives himself an extra workout.
He is also a very good inside dog. I praise him lots for being ‘nice and clean’. He is. Rolls in the snow to get extra clean every day all winter. I feed him raw meat(which he eats frozen) and he loves canned fish as a treat. And raw frozen 2” marrow bones(his teeth are still perfect from gnawing them). He does have a bit of a taste for cashews and pistachios and I do give him a can of smoked oysters twice a week. He carefully licks the oil from the oyster can and coats his paws legs and spreads some on his snout. It positively shines! Amazing to watch – and I tell him he’s nice and clean.
Bear has been an amazing companion and friend but I would caution potential owners to give a wolf dog the substantial time they require. Bear gets so sad if left alone for too long(but he happily takes to the task of ‘watching the truck’ while waiting inside when it’s cool enough outside).
Hi Dan! It’s so heartwarming to hear about your wonderful experiences with Bear! He sounds like an amazing companion and friend, and it’s clear that you and your wife have put in a lot of effort to give him the time and exercise he needs.
I can only imagine how challenging and difficult it must be to go through cancer treatment, and I want to express my sympathy for the struggles you have faced.
Despite these challenges, it’s truly inspiring to hear how you have adapted your routines to still provide Bear with the exercise and attention he needs. It’s clear that you have a strong bond with him, and it’s heartwarming to hear about the joy he brings to your life. And the way you describe his love for raw meat, canned fish, and even cashews and pistachios is so adorable!
I really appreciate your cautionary note to potential wolf dog owners, highlighting the need for substantial time and attention. It’s so important to consider the unique needs of these animals before bringing them into our homes and lives. Thank you for sharing your lovely story with us!
I have a wolf pup. She’s absolutely amazing. Very smart playful and beautiful. Tho training is a pain she’s worth every bit of time money and energy. We do not have other pets however we visit family all the time and she gets to play with all the family pets. She even gets to visit her bio parents.
That’s amazing!! I totally agree about the training. Definitely worth it to be able to experience life with these incredible companions.
We have a 9 year old male hybrid and also one of his offspring she is 5 years old. You can see the difference between the two he is loving and loves being petted. She is more vocal and very possessive especially when it comes to me. However, though during the winter time I’ve noticed he becomes more whiny and always wants to be outside, but living in Alaska I have to make sure he doesn’t stay out to long because if it was up to him he would live out there.
Hi Melissa! It’s great to hear that you have a loving relationship with your hybrid and his offspring. It’s interesting to see the differences in their personalities, with one being more vocal and possessive, while the other is more affectionate and enjoys being petted. I can imagine that living in Alaska presents some unique challenges when it comes to caring for your pets, especially during the winter months. Are you wolf dogs grandfathered in by chance? They are not typically legal in Alaska is why I ask. It’s clear that you care deeply for your pups and want to provide them with the best possible care. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.
I’ve had wolf dogs all my life….ranging from low-mid to mid- high content. They are by far the most amazing loving best friends I have ever had. My current girl Anja, is 5 years-old and is mid content. 59%. The other 41% is German shepherd. She .and her “brother” a full blooded German shepherd, Olaf, who is (two weeks older than she is) are siblings in every way. We got him at 4months old. My granddaughter who is 7….is their third litter mate. The three are inseparable and have slept played and been raised together as besties since she was 2. The bond between these three is magical. They all protect each other play together and sleep together. It’s refreshing to finally read a blog about the positive perspective of these beautiful dogs…what you wrote about their generalizations is 100% correct. They are by far the most intelligent and loyal dogs I have ever had…with different personalities and levels of spunk and spite to boot. Not a mean bone in their Bodies…and genuine and loyal. Destructive as hell if left alone hahaha. As a puppy…Anja dug her “den” under my bed into the carpet…and to this day although she doesn’t fit under there anymore…her head sleeps under my bed with all her “treasures “ she has thieved over the years. Hahaha. I’m 66 years old now and these two will most likely be my last…but who knows. If one is willing to raise a dog like you would raise a child…with patience and discipline and love and unconditional loyalty….this is the dog for you. If you want an easy uninteresting lap pup with an IQ of a 3 yo? Get a beagle. Haha. ✌️❤️🤩
Exactly!! I want a life partner and. I think intelligent animals are the way to go!
Thunder grew up with my 2 daughters.
We lived in New Hampshire for 10 of his 13 years. We had 4 miles of woods behind our home for him to run in.
His mom was half wolf and his dad was German Shepherd and husky.
I miss him greatly.
Your article is well thought out and accurate advice from my experience.
Thank you
Steve
I’ve been a dog sitter for 17 years, since I was 12. All kind of breeds and I have been looking into more breeds that are loyal, protective yet extremely friendly and that’s when I started reading into wolf hybrids and wolf dogs. My first dog that I lived with in my house was my brother’s dog a boarder collie and my my first actual dog that I own myself is a pointer mix. I was looking for a reputable breeder for a long time but I decided to go to a shelter first to see how well I would do and I’m doing better than expected, my dog is actually a rescue and it was a challenge because we had no idea if she was going to be aggressive and she was at first until she got to know me which took about 2 months to fully gain her trust and now she doesn’t leave my side. She also likes to wander and sniff her whereabouts but she’s quick to come when I call out to her. So now I’m in the process of looking for a puppy to raise with her, she’s lonely and when I leave even for an hour she gets lonely. She’s getting better with it as it’s been a year and a half now but I try to take her everywhere I go anyway. She use to growl at people and now she’s more social with other people and dogs. She even built the courage to tell another dog to back off without fighting. I hope to get a wolf hybrid in her lifetime so she can have a companion until I no longer have the privilege to care for her. Then I plan to continue getting dogs in pairs to serve them a fulfilling life. One definitely being a wolf dog. The information you gave us is very helpful and I will definitely continue to read more about them to be well adverse so I can find a reputable wolfdog breeder. If they’re gonna be forced to be cared by us then I definitely want to make sure I can help as many as I can 🙂 thank you.
There are so many things I have to disagree with here. My Yukon was 85 artic timber wolf 15 malmute.
135 lbs. He was the most loyal and affectionate and intelligent animal I ever encountered. His pack consisted of myself, my daughter, cats, chihuahua and Italian greyhound which anyone of them he would protect with his life. Yes the first 3 years were a challenge to establish who was the alpha. He adored my 18 month old great niece. I had him for 14 wonderful years.
We all have different experiences with our wolf-dogs. It’s hard to put them in a box and say they will behave in a certain way. Thank you for sharing, sounds like you had a close bond with your pup.
Thank you for an honest and true post of what these critters are like!
I have long been involved with wolves and wolfdogs and have raised several.
I had a pack of 7 with 4 wolfdogs of various content along with Shepherds and a
Husky. I currently have 2 wolfdogs and 2 dogs. You really do have to change your life a bit
and it is a real commitment. Please, if you’re thinking of getting into this do a lot of research first!
Hi Adrienne, thank you so much for your kind words and for sharing your experience with wolves and wolfdogs. It’s amazing to hear that you’ve raised several and had a pack of 7 with different breeds! I completely agree that research is essential before getting involved with wolves or wolfdogs. Thank you for your valuable insights and for being a responsible owner!
My son and I are raising 3 wolf dogs. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE them so much. They are siblings, two boys and a girl. These are the most affectionate dogs I have ever had. They are so much like raising children. Very smart, a mind of their own, they like to occupy their time destroying pillows and stuffed animals. They can make me crazy because they are definitely high maintenance, but at the end of the day all they want is our time and love. Patience is definitely a must. They are so bonded with my son and I, they don’t like being alone, even though they are with each other. They are a commitment with high costs for sure but I wouldn’t trade that for the world.
Hi Vivian! It’s wonderful to hear that you and your son are enjoying raising your three wolf dogs! They sound like they are full of personality and bring you a lot of joy. I completely agree that these types of dogs require patience and a lot of love, but it’s all worth it in the end. Thank you for sharing your experience!
We have one she’s 3 best pet ever but big-time responsibility can be your best friend she sleeps with us!
Hi! What do you use as a flea treatment for your baby? My wolf dog reacted badly to Credelio, almost like an ataxia attack and now I’m scared to try another flea treatment. We are first time wolf dog owners and no vets around us are familiar with wolf hybrids so I’m desperate to find something safe and affective for her.
Hi, Great article. We have Shelby. I know she’s a hybrid, haven’t done any DNA testing to verify. Shelby is fiercely independent, a tad possessive and seems to have the need to be top dog. Especially with other females. That being said, she’s the best friend I have ever had. She has a long story and we are her third home as far as we know. I have had her for four of her eight years and just love her. She’s loyal, loving, hilarious, and sweet (minus the lady dogs she meets). I recommend a hybrid if you can devote the time they deserve.
It was super enjoyable reading a page about wolfdog and knowing it to be completely true. I have a Sarloos Wolfdog and he’s such a darling. He’s super friendly unlike his siblings and always wants to play, as he’s just 8 months old now. He’s already bigger than most big dogs and still growing…phew. Best decision i ever made in last many years and thanks for this page.
I have just become an owner of a wolf dog. It showed up on my farm and would stay at least 40 yds from me. I never tried to approach it. I have a half pit female that is spaid. She usually don’t allow any dog on our property but she would just watch it close but at a distance. Didn’t even bark at him. I tried social media with no luck on finding the owner. My dog and the wolf dog became friends and after about 5 days I could take it no owner and had to feed it
I never approached the wolf dog, I let it come to me. Now he comes to me when I call him and sleeps outside under the porch.
He loves for me to love on him and I believe he is still a young dog no matter his size. He’s just now getting used to the lawnmower now but loves to run along on 4wheeler rides.
I have never known anything about wolf dogs but learned alot from your msgs. Please give me any advice I need. He has about 30 acres to run free on
The picture I sent was before he was ever fed or touched.
Thank you
I have two mid-content wolfdogs, a brother and sister from the same litter. They are four now, and while they have different personalities, all their wolf traits are shared and so similar to each other. They walk with me everyday, side by side with their tails touching. It’s a team effort for any activity, especially playtime and exercising their noses.
Virtually everything you hear about wolfdog temperament depends wholly on the attitude and leadership qualities of the humans in their lives. My two successfully live in town, do not run off from the back yard or try to escape, are always socialized daily, so give kisses to strangers and are currently being trained as service animals. Yes, even a wolfdog can do it, but there are varying legalities there, too.
Success with these animals comes from the hours spent with them, they ideally want 24/7 access to their human or pack, which can not be met by every caretaker or pack leader. Even with siblings, they will still howl and break items if not crated when left alone or taken to daycare with their friends.
Yes, they can be socialized brought to be in daycare, too.
One of the biggest challenges in socialization, however, has been same-sex aggression. It takes longer for these two to adjust to new dogs in their space, than would be a lab or just about any other dog. Once they acclimate, they form their own packs at the park.
Occasionally, we run into other wolfdogs, which is always a treat, because they will express different behaviors and modes of play, usually with lots of vocalization and jousting. They even have games with intricate rules that they will teach to one another.
Such great and smart creatures, and totally misunderstood by the general population.