A wolfdog is a hybrid animal that is a cross between a domestic dog and a wolf. Wolfdogs are also known as wolf hybrids. These animals can vary widely in terms of their appearance, behavior, and temperament, depending on the breed of dog and type of wolf that is involved in the crossbreeding. Wolfdogs can have physical and behavioral traits that are characteristic of both wolves and dogs, and they can range from low-content to high-content animals. Wolfdogs can make challenging pets, as their behavior can be unpredictable and they require specific care and attention. In some places, it may be illegal to own a wolfdog due to concerns about their behavior and potential danger to humans and other animals. Wolfdog hybrids as a pet are illegal in 12 states and regulated by local laws in 27 others.
Meet Our Wolfdog Hybrids
AKEYLAH
Akeylah came to us from a private owner in the Spokane area. She was kept chained up in her owner’s yard and frequently escaped her lead. For fear of being shot by neighbors, while also suffering from an inflamed wound caused by her chain and having gone untreated, she was handed over to us in spring of 2018 when long-term treatment was provided for her. Although she seems very dog-like, she still has the capacity to cause significant damage and is treated with the utmost precaution here at Cat Tales. Born 2011.
Akeylah’s DNA (top 5) is 28% Wolf, 22% Alaskan Malamute, 20% Siberian Husky, 8% German Shepherd Dog, 7% Chow Chow.
FANCY
Fancy arrived by airplane from across the United States in May of 2022, Cat Tales Wildlife became Fancy’s fourth (but now permanent and forever) home. As is the case with many of this cross breeding, the puppies are adorable but soon grow into their wolfiness. Illegal in many places, wolfdogs often are bounced from one home to the next. This constant change in ownership causes behavioral issues that are common in hybrids. In Fancy’s case she is timid and just re-learning trust. Now that she lives side by side with the other wolfdogs she is finding her comfort zone and allowing some keeper tactile contact on Fancy’s own terms. Born March 8, 2019.
Fancy’s DNA (top 5) is 29% Siberian Husky, 24% Alaskan Malamute, 17% Wolf, 11% Border Collie, 4% Chow Chow.
GRAE
Grae was born in a wolf-hybrid rescue center in Oregon. Her 3rd owner contacted us after visiting Cat Tales and heard about our northwest native species exhibit. She knew Grae was not suited for living in a residential situation and hoped that she could be an addition to our exhibit or somewhere in our facility where Grae could have a better home more suited to her genetics. Born June 13, 2015.
Grae’s DNA is 50% Gray Wolf, 25% Siberian Husky, 12.5% Alaskan Malamute, 12.5% German Shepherd Dog.
THE GRAY WOLF – Canis lupus
Habitat: North America and Eurasia;
Lifespan: In the Wild 6-8 years; In Captivity 12-16 years;
Diet: Carnivore;
Status: Endangered in the United States;
Interesting and little-known facts about wolfdogs:
Wolfdogs are a hybrid cross between a domestic dog and a wolf. The percentage of wolf DNA in a wolfdog can vary widely, from just a few percent to as much as 99%.
Due to their wolf ancestry, wolfdogs often exhibit behaviors and characteristics that are different from those of domestic dogs. They may be more independent, territorial, and prone to roaming.
Wolfdogs are often used as service animals for people with disabilities, as they can be highly intelligent and trainable.
In some Native American cultures, wolfdogs are seen as sacred animals and are believed to have spiritual powers.
Wolfdogs are often used in movies and TV shows to portray wolves, as they can be trained to perform behaviors that are difficult to elicit from wild animals.
Myths and misconceptions about wolfdogs:
Myth: Wolfdogs make good pets.
Fact: While wolfdogs can be loving and loyal companions, they can also be challenging to live with. Their wolf instincts can make them difficult to train, and they may be prone to destructive behavior if not properly exercised and stimulated.
Myth: Wolfdogs are wild animals that should be kept in the wild.
Fact: Wolfdogs are a domesticated animal and have been bred in captivity for generations. They often lack the skills needed to survive in the wild and may be at risk of being killed by other animals or humans.
Myth: Wolfdogs are illegal to own.
Fact: Laws governing the ownership of wolfdogs vary by state and country. Some areas prohibit ownership of wolfdogs altogether, while others require permits or special licenses.
Myth: Wolfdogs are more dangerous than domestic dogs.
Fact: While wolfdogs may exhibit different behaviors than domestic dogs, they are not inherently more dangerous. As with any animal, their behavior depends on their individual personality and how they are raised and trained.
Myth: Wolfdogs are a recent phenomenon.
Fact: Humans have been breeding wolves and dogs together for thousands of years, and wolfdogs have been mentioned in literature and mythology for centuries. However, the practice of intentionally breeding wolfdogs as pets is a relatively recent development.
