How to Breed a Wolfdog

Dogs are called "man's best friend" and throughout history, working dogs have played a major role in civilization. Some dogs make great friends while others are a challenge to live with. For those who have experience and a passion for dogs, and are interested in a wolf-dog hybrid, there are a few things to keep in mind when breeding your animals.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Understand what a wolfdog is. Also called s wolf-dog hybrid, the animal is a cross between a domestic canine and a pure wolf, or a hybrid and a pure wolf. The better domestic breeds to interbreed are Huskies, German Shepherds, Malamutes and other large-framed dogs.

2. Locate a suitable breed to mate with wolf stock, such as a herding dog, shepherd or large-framed dog. If you have access to a relatively tame wolf, introduce the domestic canine slowly to build a familiarity. These two have to get along in order to sire pups.

3. Wait for nature to take its course. Once the bitch is impregnated, provide a safe and comfortable place for her to deliver and rear her pups. Consult your local veterinarian if complications arise. Wolfdogs require vast amounts of space--at least an acre of space.

4. Feed your wolfdog lean, raw meat. This is suitable as it provides iron and nutrients vital for health. This also caters to the ancient instinct inherent in wolves by feeding on raw meat. Consult your veterinarian about what sort of food is best as special dietary needs are presented.

5. Learn about the behavior of wolfdog hybrids. This information is crucial for success. If ignored it may present serious problems and consequences. Wolves are territorial, unpredictable and are highly attuned to a hierarchical society. Remember that there is a wild streak in your hybrid.

6. Keep your wolfdog hybrid away from neighbors or other visitors. Your wolfdog is part wild animal. Despite how loving it may be to you, it may attack or kill other animals or people it comes in contact with, simply out of instinct.

Tips & Warnings

• They are hearty and thrive in different weather conditions. Like most large breeds, hip dysplasia is a common malady. The life span is 12 to 16 years.
• Wolves are wild animals and as such, are not tamable. Despite how much work you do, there is no way to breed out that wild streak in them. Be ready for this type of animal.
• Wolfdog hybrids are challenging in many respects. Feeding routines are different than those of domestic animals. Diet, maintenance and character are different. The wolf hierarchy is prominent and these hybrids quickly achieve this in the presence of other dogs or hybrids. You, as the owner, must be the "alpha" in the relationship or you will have difficulties with your hybrid.

Resources

• Browse a dog training Internet website
• Find information about breeding wolfdog hybrids
• Home cooked chow is recommended

[BlondieRHS02]

on 8/28/2009 I think people should leave this breed to breeders who actually know what they are doing. There are many breeders (that are good) who breed wolf hybrids. If you don't know what you are doing, then don't do it based on an article. I have nothing against hybrids, I own one. Which is even more of the reason why I think they should be in proper hands.