Dogs which look like wolves

They can have longer or shorter coats, and are not officially recognized by the AKC. They should have plenty of room to roam, if you plan to bring one home. They are more docile and have lower energy levels than standard German Shepherds, making them a good fit for families. The American Alsatian is also a derived dog breed from the German Shepherd.

These dogs are typically leaner and taller than normal German Shepherds. These pups can weigh upwards of pounds when fully grown. From there other breeds were introduced, including the Great Pyrenees, and the Anatolian Shepherd to name a few. This gave the Alsatian some added size. Alsatians can have shorter coats, but can also have longer coats as well, depending on their genetics.

Their eyes tend to be amber in color, adding to their wolf-like appearance. Firstly, with the increasingly popular desire of welcoming a wolf-like dog into our homes, brings the rise of dodgy breeders. Dodgy breeders will claim to have domesticated wolves, rare wolf hybrids, or high content wolf dogs for sale. When in reality, they are probably just one of the wolf-like dogs listed above. Secondly, the famous Game of Thrones series has been blamed for popularizing the idea of a pet dire wolf, and people rushed out to get their hands on a wolf hybrid.

The puppy stages seem ok, and then when they hit their adolescent stage, things changed. Families quickly realized they were nothing like domesticated dogs. Most families cannot cope with a wild animal, and they then surrender them to wolf hybrid sanctuaries.

If you are still convinced that you want a wolf hybrid rather than a wolf-like dog, please do some more research before you get one and add to the wolf hybrid sanctuary problem. They are not like domesticated dogs at all, and they are not suited to the vast majority of families.

Wolf hybrid laws vary from state to state and different countries around the world. Most of the dog breeds above are wolf-like dogs, not wolf hybrids. The only 2 breeds on this list that may count as hybrids are the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog and the Saarloos Wolfdog. You will need to discuss with your breeder whether your dog is an official wolf hybrid. They will advise you accordingly. Also, be sure to research your local hybrid laws yourself as to whether the selling, importation, or ownership of wolf hybrids is allowed in your place of residence.

So there you have it, the top 18 wolf-like dog breeds that look seriously similar to wolves. Remember, if you are thinking about welcoming one of these guys into your home, be sure to warn your neighbors that you have a new pet pooch. And reassure them that he is nothing to worry about. Other than the two listed wolf hybrids in this list, who, after decades of breeding are now not so many hybrids, we do not advise getting a wolf hybrid as a pet.

Instead, respect and be in awe of them in their natural environment. And admire your wolf-like domesticated doggo as he sleeps and drools on your lap. What of the standard American Eskimo dog? It was not included in the list and in real sense, it looks just like the wolf. Kelly Wilson. Good pointing that out Elvis!

We will make sure to include that when we next revise this article! Emma Braby Last Updated: October 1, 14 min read. Leave a Comment Cancel Reply. Post Comment. Elvis May 17, at am. Kelly Wilson May 21, at pm. More From Breeds. Kughsas — also known as Amerindian malamutes — are a hybrid breed with an enigmatic history.

Accounts of their precise origin vary from source to source, and none appear especially authoritative. However, they look like big huskies and exhibit the drive, love for running, and stamina that huskies do, but, like many other wolf hybrids, they have quite an independent streak and assertive personalities.

Some report although without much in the way of citations or documentation that the breed name came about as a way to get around laws banning wolf hybrids. The Siberian husky is a familiar and lovely breed, who is well-suited for homes that are prepared to accommodate a heavily shedding, high-energy dog who loves to play, roam, and explore.

Although not as popular as the husky, the Alaskan malamute is another familiar breed, which you may encounter from time to time. Handsome, fluffy and bigger than the husky, the malamute was also developed as a sled-pulling breed and for hunting polar bears , of all things. Malamutes are pretty, lovable, and very trainable when compared with some of the other dogs on this list.

Like huskies, they have high energy levels, playful personalities and the ability to coat your entire home in a layer of their fur. German shepherds possess a distinct wolf-like aesthetic, but some clearly resemble wolves more than others do.

For example, German shepherds with long hair tend to look more like wolves, and the larger, bulkier individuals also project a more wolf-like image than the small, lean ones do. German shepherds are sometimes clad in very wolf-like colors, including lots of gray, white and black, which helps further strengthen the resemblance. Both German shepherds and less commonly wild wolves occasionally exhibit jet-black coats , which is also pretty neat.

Photo courtesy of Pets4homes. The Saarloos wolfdog line was initially developed by Dutch breeder Leendert Saarloos in the s. One of the breeds that is most distantly related to other domestic dogs , and likely the most wolf-like breed in the world, Saarloos wolfdogs not only have a wolf-like build, their facial expressions are said to closely mimic those of wolves. These dogs are said to be loving and smart, but, like most other wolf-hybrids, not particularly interested in pleasing their non-fur parent.

Photo courtesy of Nisociety. However, this big white dog breed appears to have been created by mixing husky, malamute, and German shepherd lines. However, those who are familiar with the breed describe them as fairly husky-like in terms of personality and temperament. Photo courtesy of Petguide. Tamaskans are another breed that was reportedly produced by crossing — wait for it — malamutes and huskies, as well as a few other sled dogs. They may also have wolves in their recent family trees.

Tamaskans are pretty similar to huskies in terms of temperament and abilities, and they reportedly make good pets for families that can handle high-energy pooches. Tamaskans — like some wild wolves — occur in both grey and black color forms. Photo courtesy of Pedigreedatabase. Another wolf-hybrid that is recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale, Czechoslovakian wolf dogs were initially developed for the Czech military. Because this breed was deliberately created as part of a scientific study, their history is a little better documented than some other wolf-hybrids and mixed breeds.

This is especially true of those breeds and hybrids that directly descend from wolves. Different jurisdictions enforce these rules and regulations in different ways, but hard-ass municipalities may not only fine you for owning a wolf-hybrid, they may confiscate and euthanize your pet as well. It is also important to understand that many of these wolf-like breeds are very challenging to manage.

Many of them have incredible exercise requirements, and they get bored and therefore destructive very easily. Even huskies and malamutes — two of the more suitable pet breeds detailed above — are a handful, and many owners are disappointed with their aloof demeanor. So, be sure that you do your homework before running out and buying a wolf-like breed. Any of the breeds listed above should fit the bill, just be sure to pick the one that has a personality and temperament that is compatible with your own.

Have you ever owned a wolf-like dog? Tell us about the breed particularly if you owned one of the less-common varieties — we know what huskies are like and your experiences in general.

Ben is the senior content editor for K9 of Mine and has spent most of his adult life working as a wildlife educator and animal-care professional.

Nice article! Enjoyed it a lot. My wife and i are proud owners of a beautiful Hokkaido Ken lady. She is as wolf-like as most of the breeds mentioned above. I would suggest to explore all the less known Japanese breeds for everyone who loves wolf-like breeds. My dog is a 4 month old Alusky. She is half Alaskan Malamute and half Siberian Husky. She looks a lot like a wolf, but she is all white. I think crossing Malamutes and Shepherd is a good idea and develope a new breed that is very wolf like.

This is a large breed that looks like a wolf better than other dog cross breed. She straining well but stubborn. Just had first seAson and temperament defo changed great with kids very clean, moults everywhere and a good guard dog. Unfortunately she is incredibly nervous of strangers and has begun to show aggression to people entering the house. She has been socialised but due to covid19 this is less so atm She loves water and her job as chief rock collector.

We currently own a workline Samoyed. He basically is the fluffball with a lot shorter hair and, if you ignore the tail, looks nearly exactly like a white wolf of legends. So if you could let me know where I could get me another one. I would so appreciate it more then I could ever Express to you. Sincerely Melanie. I have two loyal to the bone akitas that resemble a wolf.

My female Japanese akita gave in to me being owner at a small puppy stage but my American male akita challenged me up until months of age it started getting quite scary but now he knows whose leader of the pack. Both are every loving, loyal, and protective but still stubborn wolf like animals. I have owned three malemutes still have one. All of my mails have been wonderful pets. They need exercise but nothing like a husky. All were good with small kids and other non aggressive dogs.

Shedding happens spring and fall good brushing is the answer. Mine have been gentle loving pets. They need firm training but accept consistent rules. A Malamute attracts slot of attention as they be are not a common breed. I had to rewash clothes.. I be here talking about her all day long.. German Shepherd? You could add the Calupoh instead which is a dog that comes from the gray wolf. You should look it up!

A real one. My boy was a wolve hybrid. He was mixed with an Alaskan Malamute. He was loyal, smart and loving. I miss him dearly. I am tired of hearing that wolve hybrids are unpredictable. There are many dogs that look like wolves, with long pointed muzzles, thick fur and bushy tails. And the good news is that they make great family pets. They're quite energetic and love long walks and playing games with their owners. The striking looks of Siberian Huskies have made them one of the most recognisable canines out there.

Their stunning eyes, compact bodies and upright ears remind us of their wolf ancestors, but their playful and friendly personality helps them make fast friends with anyone. Siberian Huskies are athletic, full of energy and love to have a job to do. That's no surprise considering they used to be reliable sleigh dogs. So before taking a Husky home, make sure you have a solid plan for daily exercise, fun games and brain-teasing challenges to keep them occupied. Another strong-headed dog that looks like a wolf, the Alaskan Malamute is just as handsome as the Husky.

Bigger and slightly fluffier, Alaskans will also know their way around a sled. But if you don't have one, they will be happy to spend their energy doing plenty of running, hiking and exploring all the world has to offer. Their double coat might seem an unstoppable fur machine, but these wolf dogs are such friendly and joyful pets that you will quickly forgive them for the extra house work.

Their muscular build makes them very strong. After all, Alaskan Malamutes were bred to pull heavy weights for long distances. Keep this in mind when you walk them on a leash or they will end up pulling you along instead of the other way around. The German Shepherd is a natural hero. Intelligent and loyal, German Shepherds love to be on a mission.

Its range is primarily in the Southwestern United States and northern and central Mexico. Some mammalogists classify it as conspecific with the swift fox, V. The Arctic fox, also known as the white fox, polar fox, or snow fox, is a small fox native to the Arctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere and common throughout the Arctic tundra biome. It is well adapted to living in cold environments, and is best known for its thick, warm fur that is also used as camouflage.

Its most distinctive feature is its unusually large ears, which also serve to dissipate heat. The maned wolf is the largest canid of South America. Its markings resemble those of foxes, but it is not a fox, nor is it a wolf. It is the only species in the genus Chrysocyon. This list has some facts wrong.

Not to be confused with the American Rabbit Breeders Association. I just want to love puppy I feel so lonely ever time I don't know why but when I see any puppies I feel so happy deep inside of my heart I just love wolves and I was browsing for pics for my infographic about endangered wolves and came across this picture with the title saying "11 dogs similar to wolves" and HAD to check it out. Also some of these dogs are banned in other countries, So first check if the breed you are looking for is allowed to your place.

This is a very informative and detailed article, but the picture for the kugsha dog actually shows a Shikoku dog, which should also be on the list as it is basically a wolf-coloured shiba inu. I have white swiss shepard and it definitely looks like white wolf: That was one of the reasons i chose it : Btw I am from Slovakia and czechoslovak wolfdog is slovak breed.

But usually Wolves doesn't runaway so easily, by dogs chase and they are not 3 times are more bigger than dogs. Last night I was sleeping on the tramp with my friend. I have a dog black lab that is really big.

If it stood on its back legs it would be as tall as 5'3. We were talking when we heard my dog begin to bark Feroshisly. My dog only barks like that when there is something seems threatening. We look up to see this wolf like looking dog. My dog came out of her house and the wolf like creature began to growl. My dog being as big as she is, this animal was at least 10xs bigger. Thinking they were gonna fight, we knew who would win.

But my dog chased this massive beast away. We don't know what this animal was. It looked exactly like a black wolf but where we live wolves have only been spotted once or twice. We live on near a forest but have never seen any animal like it. I also don't know of anybody in our neighborhood with a massive black dog. Does anybody have any ideas of what it could be? German shepherds don't look like wolves.

If you like a wolf-like dog in India, then not easy to get. Also they need couple of aaprovals and certificate to own them. In that case, you may like "Husky" or the best recommended "Thai Bangakaev Dog". That's naturally created Jackal dog. And most suitable for Indian Climate. I love wolf type dogs. Their eyes are very bright. They are white,black grey in colour. They live in cold places. Me and my father want to buy a wolf type dog but, we can not buy because they live in cold places.

Usually when we get a dog comes to our family and not a specified breed. That's a gamble, and sometimes they do much better than expectation and better than pedigree breeds dogs. We had a dog out of Oregon that looked just like a wolf!! He was red like a malmute, had short ears like a wolf, but had long legs and long hair like a german shepherd.

The most loveable , great with children, dog we ever had. PS He chose us. We didn't chose him. Came to us through an adoption family.

Awesome dog.!! Excellent summary! Great pictures; really liked comparison and "cautions" to help educate potential owners. Many years ago my parents bought a husky and didn't know the traits and needs of the breed. Luckily they were able to find a good home with our uncle in the country. If they had seen an article like this I doubt they would have purchased the dog. I have a Tamaskan and they are lovely!

I'm on the committee for the breed and glad to know they're becoming more popular. They were bred for hunting boar, deer and sometimes bears. They are stubborn to train, but potty train easily. Aloof with strangers and independant. They need a lot of exercise and socialisation. I agree with you they look like Wolf and I had added them in video presentation.

I apologize Sorry for the misinformation. Great article! Just a small side note Since researchers can't agree on its appearance But it is beautiful nonetheless! Yes i agree, Tamaskan are new breed.. Interesting article; loved the photos of the beautiful dogs and wolves.

You say genus but I think you mean taxa. Genus is a taxonomic rank above species - e. Given the age of the lineage maybe you mean there is evidence that the species diverged 40 years ago? Good article but I caught one mistake. The dog you call a Kugsha is really a picture of a Shikoku a Japanese breed. I've seen that picture in many a dog magazine. It's from a Canadian kennel.

I really like the look of the Tamaskan. I think that breed looks the most like a wolf.