Wolfdog (wd) is a general name for the different types of Wolfdogs.
They all have their own 'user manual'. We therefore name them per breed.
However, we can provide a common description of them below.
The positive sides!
1. Beautiful exterior that is reminiscent of the wolf.
2. A loyal comrade and sweet (can be a bit clumsy) for children.
3. A cuddle bear for their own family.
4. Fair to very tolerant towards other packmembers or pets, when they are well socialized from a young age.
5. They love to take long walks in nature and also can enjoy a lazy day.
6. Are very playful upto a high age and have funny character
traits.
7. overall the wolfdogs has few health problems if your wolfdog
comes from a respectable breeder.
See breeding and hereditary defaults.
Reasons enough to think again if all the advantages outweigh the lesser sides of the Wolfdog!
1. WD's are often late housebroken (1.5 years is no exception and some remain difficult to train).
2. Several females in the same pack often give considerable fights at a later age +1,
which often does not resolve like most males do. Many females live separated or are relocated for this reason.
3. Demolition is a real Wolfdog hobby. Therefore long walks and mind games are essential but also keep in mind that it is the owners job to provide in their needs.
Give them something to demolish on a regular basis. (cuddly toys, tree trunks, branches, towel, boxes, etc.)
4. Although they certainly can and want to learn, the Wolfdog decides for himself if he will be 'better off' and see the usefulness of it. Don't expect an obedient dog!!
5. You have to appreciate their shyness and natural/primal character, that many Wolfdogs have.
6. Many Wolfdogs are motion (car) sick in their first year. Vomiting, drooling and even diarrhea is common. (socialize well, adjust your driving style and be patient)
7. Wolfdogs often have an obsession with food and don't want you or another dog around. Even in a submissive position they will make it known by growling and showing teeth.
So in a low position, punishment is really out of the question. Please don't be stubborn!!(look at wolf puppies and adults) They have the right to defend what is theirs.
Build trust and learn to trait for something better.
8. At the age between 1 and 3 years old there behavior can change considerably towards other dogs and same sex aggression can occur. Many Wolfdogs are rehomed between 1 and 3 years of age .
Puberty with Wolfdogs starts at a later age than average dogs and lasts longer.
9. Wolfdogs shed all year long with 2 real moulting periods. Some go to the groomer.
11. To stay home alone is not something that a Wolfdog easily accepts. Good socialisation in the beginning gives no guarantees and a crate, kennel or inclosiour is not always the solution. They can harm themselves and are escape artists.
12. Like i said, they are escape artists!!
The enclosure must contain a high fence (2m.) that hels 45° inwards so that they can't climb ove it. Don't place anything near the fence for them to climb on and over the enclosure.
Also make sure that they can't dig there way out.
not shocked yet?You just might be a potential Wolfdog owner.
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