German Shepherd Wolf Mix: A Guide for Potential Owners
Do you intend to acquire a German shepherd-wolf hybrid? If so, you may be curious about what makes this breed of dog unique and what you should know before bringing one home. In this article, we’ll explore What is a German shepherd wolf mix and offer some advice on how to take care of them.
What is a German shepherd wolf mix?
A mixed breed dog that is a cross between a wolf and a German shepherd is known as a German shepherd wolf mix. This indicates that they exhibit the characteristics of both of their parents. Wolf shepherds and wolfdogs are other names for German shepherd-wolf mixes.
Large dogs, including German shepherd wolf mixes, can weigh between 50 and 100 pounds and range in height from 20 to 26 inches. Their thick, double coat comes in a variety of colors, including black and tan, sable, white, red, brown, and mottled gray. They also have a long, tapered muzzle, pointed ears, strong, wide bodies, and long tails.
What is the history of the German shepherd-wolf mix?
A relatively new breed that emerged in North America in the late 1990s is the German shepherd-wolf mix. To create a dog that possessed the best traits of both breeds, breeders sought to cross the German shepherd and the wolf. They desired a canine companion that was not only devoted, perceptive, and guarding, but also looked wild and majestic.
The American Kennel Club does not recognize German shepherd-wolf mixes; these canines are categorized as hybrids. However, they can be registered with other organizations such as:
- The Dog Registry of America (DRA)
- the American Canine Hybrid Club
- The International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR)
Some German shepherd wolf mixes may end up in shelters or rescues because of their wolf heritage. Some people may not want them or may not be able to care for them properly. If you are interested in adopting a German shepherd-wolf mix, you should check your local shelters or look for wolfdog rescues online.
What is the temperament of the German shepherd wolf mix?
Loyal and watchful, German shepherd wolf mixes can make good guard dogs. They can make wonderful family pets because they are affectionate, entertaining, and friendly dogs. They are simple to train because they are intelligent and eager to please their owners. Additionally, they are very active and require a lot of play and exercise.
Although German shepherd wolf hybrids are not typically aggressive or violent, they do have a strong instinct to chase and guard their prey. This means that in order to learn how to act around other animals and people, they need early socialization and positive reinforcement training. To keep them from becoming arrogant or stubborn, they also require their owners to exercise firm and constant leadership.
German shepherd wolf hybrids get along well with kids and can develop close relationships with them. However, they should always be watched around young children as they might play too rough or accidentally knock them over.
What are some health issues of the German shepherd wolf mix?
German shepherd wolf mixes are generally healthy dogs that can live up to 14 years. However, they can have some health problems that are related to their parent breeds. Some of these include:
- Hip dysplasia: This condition results in pain and difficulty moving because the hip joint does not fit snugly into the socket. It is typical of big, heavy breeds like wolves and German shepherds.
- Degenerative myelopathy: This condition involves the spinal cord’s gradual deterioration, which results in weakness and paralysis in the back legs. In German shepherds, it is typical.
- Bloat: When the stomach overflows with gas and twists on itself, it can be painful and even fatal. Large, deep-chested breeds like German shepherds frequently exhibit it.
- Eye issues: German shepherds and wolves may experience vision issues as a result of eye issues like cataracts, glaucoma, or progressive retinal atrophy.
To prevent or treat these health problems, you should take your German Shepherd wolf mix to the vet often, give them shots, keep them free of bugs and feed them good food. You should also avoid breeding your dog too much or with close relatives, as this can increase the chance of bad genes.
How to care for a German shepherd wolf mix puppy?
If you want to get a German shepherd wolf mix puppy, you need to be ready for the work of raising them well. Here are some tips on how to look after your new furry friend:
Pick a good breeder:
You should research the breeder before purchasing a puppy from them to ensure that you get a healthy and good puppy. You should request documents that detail your puppy’s family and medical history. Visit the location where the breeder keeps the dogs and meet the parents of your puppy there as well.
Train them well:
As soon as you bring your puppy home, you should begin training him or her how to sit, stay, and use the bathroom. To encourage good behavior, use kind words, treats, and toys. Additionally, refrain from yelling at or hitting your puppy because these actions might frighten or enrage them.
Exercise them enough:
German shepherd-wolf mixes are very active dogs that need at least an hour of exercise every day. You should do different things with them like walking, running, playing fetch or tug-of-war. You should also give them things to think about like puzzles or games.
Feed them well:
German shepherd-wolf hybrids require nutritious food that satisfies their needs. You should choose a dog food that is appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and level of activity. Feeding them human food could be harmful to them.
Groom them often:
German shepherd wolf hybrids require weekly or biweekly brushing of their thick, double coat. Additionally, you should give them a weekly cleaning, a weekly nail trim, and daily tooth brushing. Only bathe them when necessary because frequent bathing can dry out their skin.
Love them always:
German shepherd wolf mix dogs are devoted, loving animals that crave human contact. Every day, you should spend time playing, cuddling, and conversing with your puppy. You should also give them a comfy bed, toys, and water all the time.
Conclusion
Beautiful dogs, German shepherd/wolf mixes make wonderful friends for anyone who can take good care of them. They have the traits and features of both German shepherds and wolves. They are loyal, playful, and friendly dogs that can make great family pets.
To get this puppy, educate yourself on breeders and get ready for the job. With love and respect, your German Shepherd wolf mix will be your best friend for life.