American wolfdog

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog american wolfdog!

Here, you will find all the useful information about american wolfdog. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

The American Wolfdog is a fascinating breed of dog that combines the majestic appearance of a wolf with the loyalty and intelligence of a dog. Originating in the United States, this hybrid breed is the result of a cross between sled dogs and grey wolves.

The history of the American Wolfhound dates back to the 1960s, when American breeder Harry Wheeler set out to create a breed that would retain the appearance of a wolf but have a more predictable and docile character. By crossing Siberian sled dogs with wild wolves, he succeeded in creating the first individuals of the breed. Over the decades, selective breeding programmes were put in place to stabilise the breed's characteristics and improve its temperament.

As far as morphology is concerned, the American Wolfdog is a large, robust animal. They are powerful, muscular and well proportioned. Its head is broad with a slightly elongated muzzle. Its ears are pointed and erect. Their almond-shaped eyes are generally yellow or amber in colour. Its coat is dense and can vary in colour from grey to black, red and white.

In terms of size and weight, males are generally larger than females. On average, males measure 76 to 86 centimetres (30 to 34 inches) at the withers, while females measure 71 to 81 centimetres (28 to 32 inches). In terms of average weight, males generally weigh between 38 and 57 kilograms (85 to 125 pounds), while females average between 30 and 45 kilograms (65 to 100 pounds).

In terms of character, the American Wolfdog is known for its loyalty to its family. They are intelligent, attentive and have a strong protective instinct. They are generally very affectionate towards their loved ones and can be excellent companions for busy people and families. However, because of their wolf heritage, they also have a strong predatory instinct and require appropriate socialisation and education from an early age.

As far as FCI recognition is concerned, it is important to note that the American Wolfdog is not currently recognised as a breed by the FCI. However, it is recognised by other dog organisations and clubs, such as the American Rare Breed Association (ARBA) and the American Alsatian Club, which work to promote the breed, set standards and support responsible American Wolfhound breeders.

In conclusion, the American Wolfdog is a captivating breed that combines the impressive appearance of the wolf with the loyalty and intelligence of the domestic dog. Its history can be traced back to the desire to create a pet with wolf-like traits but with a predictable, docile temperament. With its powerful morphology, protective character and attachment to its family, the American Wolfhound can be a wonderful companion for people who are active and experienced in managing dog breeds with wolf heritage.

Awareness of acquiring an animal

Each animal is a sensitive being, deserving love, attention and care.
When you choose to adopt an animal, you take on the responsibility of ensuring its health and well-being throughout its life.

To learn more about animal welfare, we invite you to consult our FAQ by clicking the button below:

Awareness of animal welfare

Origins

The American Wolfdog, also known as the American Wolfdog, is a hybrid breed resulting from the crossbreeding of wolves and domestic dogs. This breed appeared in the United States during the 20th century, mainly due to the growing interest in exotic animals and crosses between dogs and wolves. The first crosses aimed to combine the wild qualities of the wolf with the loyalty and trainability of domestic dogs. Dog breeds often used include the Alaskan Malamute, the Siberian Husky, and the German Shepherd.

History

The history of the American Wolfdog dates back to the mid-20th century in the United States, when breeders began crossing wolves with domestic dogs to create a breed that combined the attributes of both wolves and dogs. These crossings were initially motivated by an interest in exotic animals and the hope of producing dogs with the endurance and robustness of wolves, while retaining the loyalty and docility of dogs. Over the decades, the breed has gained popularity, although its breeding and ownership are strictly regulated in some regions.

Standard

There is no universally accepted breed standard for the American Wolfdog due to the large genetic variation among individuals. However, generally, these dogs are large in size, often measuring between 60 and 90 cm at the withers and weighing between 30 and 50 kg. Their appearance is strongly influenced by their percentage of wolf lineage, with a dense and double coat that can vary in color, ranging from gray to black, to white and brown. They often have almond-shaped eyes, which can be yellow, amber, or blue.

Physical characteristics

The American Wolfdog has an impressive physique, combining the wild traits of the wolf and the characteristics of large dog breeds. They have a strong and muscular body, a deep chest, and strong legs. Their fur is thick and dense, suited for varied climates, and can come in colors ranging from silver gray to black, through shades of brown and white. Their almond-shaped eyes, often yellow or amber, add to their piercing and intelligent expression. The ears are usually erect, reminiscent of those of the wolf.

Character

The American Wolfdog is known for its complex and unique character. They are generally very intelligent, curious and alert, combining the wild traits of wolves with the loyalty of domestic dogs. They can be independent and reserved, but also very affectionate with their human family. Their pack instinct is strong, requiring early and ongoing socialization. Due to their hybrid nature, they can sometimes be more difficult to train than purebred dogs and require an experienced owner who can handle their energy and instinct.

Life expectancy

The life expectancy of the American Wolfdog is generally 12 to 14 years, although this may vary depending on their specific lineage and genetics. This longevity is relatively typical for large dog breeds. To maximize their lifespan, it is crucial to provide them with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper veterinary care. Paying special attention to their specific needs, such as mental and physical stimulation, as well as prevention of common diseases, can also help extend their lifespan.

Exercise and activity needs

The American Wolfdog has high exercise and activity needs due to its lupine heritage. They require long daily walks, running sessions, and mental stimulation activities to stay healthy and happy. Interactive games, hikes, and dog sports such as agility are ideal for them. Their pack instinct and energy must be channeled in a positive way to avoid boredom and destructive behaviors. An active environment and physical challenges are essential for their well-being.

Recommended diet

A balanced diet is essential for the American Wolfhound. They require protein-rich food to support their muscles and energy. High-quality kibble, specially formulated for active large breeds, is ideal. Supplementing their diet with lean meats, vegetables, and whole grains can be beneficial. Portions should be tailored to their weight and activity level to avoid obesity. Fresh water should always be available, especially after intense exercise to prevent dehydration.

Training and obedience

The American Wolfdog requires patient and consistent training, using positive reinforcement methods. Due to their intelligence and wild instinct, they can be independent and require a firm but gentle approach. Early socialization is crucial to expose them to various people, animals, and environments. Training sessions should be short and varied to maintain their interest. Early and ongoing education is needed to channel their energy and pack instinct in a positive way, thus ensuring balanced behavior.

Behavior with children

The American Wolfdog can get along well with children, especially if socialized with them from a young age. They are usually affectionate and protective towards family members, including the younger ones. However, due to their size and energy, it is important to supervise interactions with young children to avoid unintentional accidents. Teaching children to respect the dog and interact with it appropriately is essential for a harmonious and safe cohabitation.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The compatibility of the American Wolfdog with other pets can vary considerably depending on its socialization and hunting instinct. Although they can live with other dogs, especially if raised together, their wolf-like instinct can pose challenges when it comes to small animals like cats or rodents. Proper introduction and constant supervision are necessary to ensure a harmonious cohabitation. Each dog is unique, and some may get along better with other animals than others.

Grooming needs

The American Wolfdog has a dense and thick coat that requires regular maintenance. Weekly brushing is essential to remove dead hair and prevent knots, especially during seasonal shedding. Baths are only necessary occasionally, unless they get dirty. It is also important to regularly check their ears to prevent infections, trim their nails to avoid them becoming too long, and maintain good dental hygiene to prevent gum and teeth problems.

Health

The American Wolfdog is generally robust and healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain hereditary conditions. Common problems include hip dysplasia, heart issues, and some genetic disorders related to their wolf ancestry. Regular veterinary check-ups and special attention to their diet and exercise can help prevent and manage these issues. It is also crucial to keep their vaccinations up to date and provide regular parasite treatments to ensure optimal health throughout their life.

Average price

The average price of an American Wolfdog puppy can vary significantly depending on the breeder, the puppy's lineage, and the percentage of wolf lineage. Generally, one can expect to pay between 1000 and 3000 euros (1100 to 3300 dollars) for a quality puppy. Puppies with a higher percentage of wolf lineage or from champion lineages can cost more. It is crucial to choose a responsible breeder who conducts health tests on their breeding dogs and raises their puppies in optimal conditions, ensuring the health and well-being of the animals.

Expenses

The annual expenses for an American Wolfdog include food, veterinary care, health insurance, accessories, and grooming. On average, you can expect to spend between 1200 and 1800 euros (approximately 1300 to 2000 dollars) per year. This estimate includes high-quality food, regular veterinary visits, vaccines, parasite treatments, and other common expenses. Expenses may vary depending on the specific needs of the dog and regional costs, but this estimate provides a good overview of the costs to expect to maintain a healthy and happy American Wolfdog.

Name ideas

For an American Wolfdog, names can reflect its wild nature and noble appearance. "Luna" means moon, evoking their connection to the night. "Shadow" can refer to their agility and discretion. "Zephyr" evokes the wind, symbolizing their speed. "Blaze" for their fiery energy. "Dakota" means friend or ally. "Raven" reminds of their mystery. "Thor" for their strength. "Echo" for their loyalty and resonance in nature. "Frost" evokes their endurance in the face of the elements. "Aspen" for their resilience and natural beauty.

Legislation and regulation

The American Wolfdog is subject to strict regulations in certain countries and regions due to their wolf ancestry. Some states and countries prohibit the possession of wolfdogs or require special permits to own them. It is essential to check local laws before acquiring an American Wolfdog. These regulations aim to ensure public safety and animal welfare, due to their semi-wild nature and specific challenges related to their ownership. There are no universal bans, but local compliance is crucial.

Official recognition

The American Wolfdog is not officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) as a distinct breed, largely due to genetic variability and challenges associated with standardizing the breed. However, clubs and specialized registers in the United States, such as the American Wolfdog Association, are working to promote and responsibly manage this breed. These organizations aim to establish breed standards and educate owners on proper care and legal requirements related to owning these hybrid animals.

Pedigrees

Pedigrees for the American Wolfdog can be available through specialized registries and breed clubs such as the American Wolfdog Association. A pedigree provides detailed information about a dog's ancestors, ensuring its lineage and origins. These documents are essential for breeders and serious owners as they allow tracking of hereditary traits and potential genetic diseases. Pedigrees also help plan breedings to maintain or improve desired breed characteristics, ensuring the health and quality of puppies.

Destination and usage

The American Wolfdog, with its distinctive features and hybrid heritage, is primarily used as a companion animal by experienced owners who understand their specific needs. Their intelligence, energy, and imposing appearance also make them candidates for working roles such as search and rescue, under appropriate supervision. However, their semi-wild nature requires careful management and a deep understanding of their behavior. They are not recommended for novice owners due to their complex needs and pack instinct.

Prohibitions

The American Wolfdog is subject to prohibitions and strict regulations in certain regions due to their wolf ancestry. Some states in the United States and other countries completely ban the possession of wolfdogs or require special permits to own them. These restrictions are aimed at ensuring public safety and animal welfare, given their semi-wild nature and specific challenges related to their ownership. Before acquiring an American Wolfdog, it is crucial to check local laws and ensure compliance with all current regulations.

Breeders ofamerican wolfdog

No ofamerican wolfdog breeders are currently registered on Preeders.
If you’re a breeder, sign up for free now and be the first to appear on this page.

Classified Ads ofamerican wolfdog

No ofamerican wolfdog classified ads are available on Preeders.
If you’re a breeder, sign up for free now and be the first to post a classified ad

Breed clubs ofamerican wolfdog

No ofamerican wolfdog breed clubs are currently registered on Preeders.
If you would like to highlight your breed club, sign up for free now and be the first to appear on this page.