The Saarloos Wolfdog, a breed that truly captures the wild spirit of its wolf ancestors while possessing the domestic traits of a dog, often sparks curiosity. Also known as the European Wolfdog, this captivating breed is a hybrid, born from the deliberate crossing of a German Shepherd and a Eurasian Grey Wolf. Leendert Saarloos, a Dutch breeder, dedicated himself to creating this breed, aiming to bring back a touch of wildness to domestic dogs. The result is a dog that embodies the striking appearance of a wolf, combined with the intelligence, loyalty, and inquisitive nature often associated with German Shepherds.
While the Saarloos Wolfdog is classified as a domestic breed, they retain a significant portion of their wolf heritage. This manifests in their independent nature, their inherent strength, and a naturally reserved demeanor, particularly around unfamiliar individuals. If you’re drawn to the allure of a wolf and considering welcoming one into your home, the Saarloos Wolfdog might seem like the closest and most responsible option. But Are Saarloos Wolfdogs Good Pets for the average owner? Let’s delve deeper into the characteristics of this unique breed to understand if they are the right fit for your lifestyle.
Breed Overview
| Height: | 24–28 inches |
| Weight: | 70–90 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10–12 years |
| Colors: | Grey, red, white |
| Suitable for: | Experienced dog owners, active families, and singles |
| Temperament: | Active, energetic, loyal, reserved, independent |
Primarily developed as working animals, Saarloos Wolfdogs excel in roles that demand stamina, energy, and strength. However, with consistent training, early socialization, and ample exercise, they can also thrive as devoted companions. It’s important to note that their high energy levels, considerable power, and substantial size make them unsuitable for apartment living. They are happiest in environments where they have access to a large, securely fenced yard where they can roam and expend their energy.
If the idea of sharing your life with a dog that possesses a wolf-like presence has always appealed to you, the Saarloos Wolfdog presents an intriguing option. Continue reading to explore the distinct characteristics of this fascinating hybrid and determine if a Saarloos Wolfdog is the right pet for you.
Saarloos Wolfdog Characteristics
Understanding the specific characteristics of a breed is crucial in determining if they will integrate seamlessly into your life. Here’s a closer look at key traits of the Saarloos Wolfdog:
Energy:
- High-energy dogs like the Saarloos Wolfdog require significant mental and physical stimulation daily to maintain their well-being. Matching a dog’s energy level to your lifestyle is vital for a harmonious relationship.
Trainability:
- Saarloos Wolfdogs are not considered easy-to-train due to their independent nature. They require experienced owners who understand canine behavior and can employ consistent, patient training methods.
Health:
- While generally healthy, Saarloos Wolfdogs are predisposed to certain genetic health issues. Being aware of these potential issues and providing proper care, nutrition, and exercise is essential for their longevity and quality of life.
Lifespan:
- With a lifespan of 10-12 years, Saarloos Wolfdogs offer a significant companionship commitment.
Sociability:
- Saarloos Wolfdogs are known for being less social with strangers, often exhibiting a reserved and cautious demeanor. Early and ongoing socialization is paramount to help them become well-adjusted members of society.
Saarloos Wolfdog Puppies
Saarloos Wolfdog puppies, despite their wolf heritage, inherit desirable traits from German Shepherds, contributing to their potential as companions. However, their inherent aloofness, reserved personalities, and independent spirit necessitate experienced dog owners who can provide dedicated training and socialization from a young age. These puppies have substantial exercise needs and require owners who can commit several hours daily to training and physical activity. If you are frequently away from home or lack the time for consistent engagement, a Saarloos Wolfdog puppy might not be a suitable choice for you.
Temperament & Intelligence of the Saarloos Wolfdog 🧠
Saarloos Wolfdogs undeniably possess a wolf-like appearance, closely resembling their Grey Wolf ancestors. However, their temperament often differs from what one might expect. Contrary to the assertive nature Leendert Saarloos initially aimed for, the modern Saarloos Wolfdog typically exhibits a reserved and somewhat aloof temperament. Despite their imposing stature, they are generally gentle dogs, rarely displaying aggression towards people or other dogs. This wolf-like appearance, however, can be advantageous for those seeking a natural deterrent, as their presence alone can be quite formidable.
They are generally considered even-tempered and good-natured, often described as quiet and reserved animals, albeit with high energy levels. Saarloos Wolfdogs form deep and powerful bonds with their families, demonstrating unwavering loyalty and protectiveness. Their pack animal instincts mean they thrive on companionship and can experience distress if left alone for extended periods. While their alertness and protective nature make them excellent watchdogs, they are typically not aggressive and prefer to avoid confrontations. When feeling threatened, a Saarloos Wolfdog is more likely to retreat and hide rather than engage in conflict.
A Saarloos Wolfdog’s personality can be characterized as reserved and aloof, especially around strangers. Yet, towards their families, they exhibit a level of loyalty and devotion comparable to any other dog breed. Understanding this nuanced temperament is key to appreciating if Saarloos Wolfdogs are good pets for your specific household.
Are These Dogs Good for Families? 🏡
Saarloos Wolfdogs can be wonderful family pets when raised in the right environment and with proper handling. Consistent training and thorough socialization are essential from puppyhood. These dogs thrive under the guidance of a firm and consistent pack leader and benefit from clear boundaries and structured training. When provided with this foundation from a young age, they can integrate beautifully into family life and become devoted family members.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that Saarloos Wolfdogs are generally not recommended for families with very young children. Their inherent athleticism, combined with their size and potential for unintentional clumsiness, could pose a risk of accidental injury to small children. Older, more robust children who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs can often form strong and positive relationships with a Saarloos Wolfdog.
Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets? 🐶 😽
Saarloos Wolfdogs possess a strong prey drive, a natural instinct inherited from their wolf ancestry. This can manifest as a tendency to chase smaller animals, including household pets like cats, if given the opportunity. However, this instinct can be effectively managed through dedicated training and early socialization. If raised with cats from puppyhood and properly trained, Saarloos Wolfdogs can often learn to coexist peacefully with feline companions.
As pack animals by nature, Saarloos Wolfdogs generally thrive in multi-dog households. They can happily coexist with other dogs, establishing a pack dynamic within the home. Careful introductions and ensuring balanced pack leadership are important factors in successful multi-dog households with Saarloos Wolfdogs. Whether Saarloos Wolfdogs are good pets in a home with existing animals largely depends on proactive training and socialization efforts.
Things to Know When Owning a Saarloos Wolfdog
Owning a Saarloos Wolfdog is a unique experience that comes with specific considerations. Prospective owners should be well-informed about their needs to ensure a harmonious and fulfilling relationship.
Food & Diet Requirements 🦴
Saarloos Wolfdogs, being medium to large-sized dogs with high energy levels, require a diet that adequately fuels their active lifestyle. Generally, they need approximately 2–3 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily, ideally divided into two meals. Supplementing their diet occasionally with lean meats or high-quality canned food can provide added nutritional benefits. Given their wolf lineage, Saarloos Wolfdogs thrive on a diet rich in animal protein. When selecting dog food, carefully examine the ingredient list to ensure that a named animal protein source is listed as the primary ingredient.
It’s advisable to minimize or avoid dog foods that contain excessive fillers or high amounts of grains like wheat, soy, and corn, as these can be less digestible and offer limited nutritional value for this breed. Consistent access to fresh, clean water is also crucial for their overall health and hydration. Meeting these dietary needs is a part of responsible ownership and contributes to answering the question of are Saarloos Wolfdogs good pets in terms of care commitment.
Exercise 🐕
Saarloos Wolfdogs are undeniably high-energy dogs with exceptional stamina. Regular daily exercise is non-negotiable for their physical and mental well-being. At a minimum, they require 60 minutes of vigorous exercise each day, with 90 minutes being even more beneficial. This exercise can encompass activities like running, brisk walking, cycling alongside you, or exploring hiking trails. In addition to structured exercise, access to a large, securely fenced backyard is essential, providing them with space to play, roam, and expend energy freely.
Beyond physical exertion, Saarloos Wolfdogs are highly intelligent animals that also require significant mental stimulation. Engaging their minds is just as important as tiring their bodies. Incorporate regular training sessions, interactive games, and puzzle toys into their routine to keep their minds sharp, prevent boredom, and deter potential mischief arising from pent-up energy. Adequate exercise and mental enrichment are fundamental aspects of responsible Saarloos Wolfdog ownership and directly influence whether Saarloos Wolfdogs are good pets for a particular owner’s lifestyle.
Training 🦮
Training a Saarloos Wolfdog requires a firm, consistent, and confident approach. They need a clear pack leader who establishes boundaries and provides structure. Without this leadership, they may attempt to assume the dominant role themselves, which can lead to training challenges. This inherent need for strong leadership is a primary reason why Saarloos Wolfdogs are generally not recommended for novice dog owners.
Their somewhat aloof and independent nature can sometimes present training hurdles. However, they are also highly intelligent and, when motivated correctly, eager to please their owners. Employing positive reinforcement techniques, patience, and consistency are crucial for successful training. With the right approach, experienced owners can find them to be quick learners, capable of mastering a wide range of commands and tasks.
Early socialization is paramount for Saarloos Wolfdogs. Exposing them to a variety of sights, sounds, people, and other animals from a young age helps them develop into well-adjusted and confident adults. Furthermore, ensuring they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation is intrinsically linked to successful training. A well-exercised and mentally fulfilled dog is invariably more receptive to training and exhibits better overall behavior. Effective training is a cornerstone of responsible ownership and a key factor in determining if Saarloos Wolfdogs are good pets capable of thriving in a domestic environment.
Grooming ✂️
Saarloos Wolfdogs possess a moderately dense, straight coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. Regular brushing is necessary to remove loose hair, prevent matting, and maintain a healthy coat. While they are moderate shedders, consistent brushing helps manage shedding and keeps their coat in good condition.
Bathing should be infrequent, only when genuinely necessary, such as when they become excessively dirty. Over-bathing can strip their coat and skin of natural oils, potentially leading to dryness and skin irritation. Generally, Saarloos Wolfdogs are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming. Regular nail trimming is needed to prevent overgrowth, especially if their nails don’t naturally wear down through activity. Dental hygiene is also important; brushing their teeth at least once a week helps prevent dental disease and maintain oral health. Their relatively straightforward grooming needs are a practical aspect to consider when evaluating if Saarloos Wolfdogs are good pets in terms of everyday care.
Health and Conditions ❤️
Saarloos Wolfdogs are generally considered a relatively healthy breed overall. However, like many breeds, they are predisposed to certain genetic health conditions that prospective owners should be aware of. Due to their size and active nature, they are susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, conditions affecting the joints. Degenerative myelopathy, a progressive spinal cord disease, is another condition to be mindful of. It’s crucial to avoid over-exercising Saarloos Wolfdog puppies while they are still developing, as excessive strain on their joints at a young age can increase the risk of joint and spinal issues later in life. Intensive exercise before they reach one year old should be avoided.
Minor Conditions:
- Allergies
- Obesity
- Bloat
- Cataracts
Serious Conditions:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Pituitary dwarfism
Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for these conditions, minimizing the risk. Understanding these potential health concerns is part of being a prepared owner and contributes to the overall consideration of whether Saarloos Wolfdogs are good pets in terms of long-term health management.
Male vs. Female
Generally, male Saarloos Wolfdogs tend to be slightly larger and more muscular than females. Anecdotally, they are often reported to be more overtly affectionate and attached to their owners. While both sexes can exhibit the breed’s characteristic aloofness, females are often described as more independent and content to do their own thing. Males, maturing somewhat slower than females, may be slightly more challenging to train initially due to a potentially higher susceptibility to distractions.
Spaying females and neutering males is generally recommended for Saarloos Wolfdogs. Neutering reduces the likelihood of males wandering in search of mates and eliminates the risk of unwanted pregnancies in females. Spaying also significantly reduces the risk of mammary cancer and pyometra (uterine infection) in females. These procedures can also mitigate some hormone-driven behavioral differences between sexes, often contributing to a more even-tempered dog overall.
However, it’s essential to remember that individual temperament is shaped more by upbringing, training, and environment than by sex alone. Regarding spaying and neutering in Saarloos Wolfdogs, due to their large to giant breed status, veterinary recommendations often suggest waiting until they reach approximately 2 years of age to allow for complete skeletal maturity before undergoing these procedures. Consulting with your veterinarian is crucial to determine the optimal timing for your individual dog. The Association of Saarlooswolfhond Lovers (AVLS) actively works to maintain breed health and genetic diversity and may have specific recommendations for owners. Understanding these nuances related to sex differences contributes to a well-rounded perspective on are Saarloos Wolfdogs good pets and what responsible ownership entails.
3 Little-Known Facts About the Saarloos Wolfdog
Adding to the intrigue of this unique breed, here are three fascinating, lesser-known facts about Saarloos Wolfdogs:
1. The breed was first developed in 1932.
Saarloos Wolfdogs have a history spanning back to the early 1930s. Dutch breeder Leendert Saarloos embarked on his breeding program long before the surge in popularity of designer dog breeds. While various wolf hybrids exist today, the Saarloos Wolfdog stands out as one of the earliest deliberately developed and recognized breeds of its kind.
2. The breed was created with a wolf obtained from a zoo.
Driven by his belief that German Shepherds had become overly domesticated, Leendert Saarloos sought to infuse more “wild” traits and a stronger work ethic back into the breed. To achieve this, he acquired a female Eurasian Grey Wolf named Fleur from the Rotterdam Zoo. Fleur became the foundation of the Saarloos Wolfdog breed when Saarloos bred her with his German Shepherd, Gerard.
3. They are only roughly ¼ wolf.
To achieve his desired balance, Saarloos intentionally bred the offspring of his initial wolf-dog cross back to German Shepherds. His goal was to create a breed that retained approximately ¼ wolf bloodline, ensuring a wolf-like appearance without excessive independence or untrainability. The resulting Saarloos Wolfdog exhibits the striking looks of a wolf while possessing a temperament more akin to the German Shepherd, making them potentially more manageable as companions.
Image By: A Saarloos Wolfdog standing majestically on river stones, showcasing its wolf-like appearance and noble bearing.
Conclusion
The Saarloos Wolfdog offers a remarkable opportunity to experience the captivating presence of a wolf in a domestic setting. These dogs are undeniably powerful, majestic, and deeply loyal to their families. Despite their imposing appearance, they are often affectionate and loving companions within their close circle. Their high energy levels and active nature necessitate a home with a large yard and owners committed to providing substantial daily exercise.
Their inherent aloofness and independent streak require experienced owners who can provide firm, consistent training and socialization from an early age. Therefore, Saarloos Wolfdogs are generally not considered suitable pets for novice dog owners. However, for experienced individuals or families who can meet their specific needs, their intelligence and desire to please can make them surprisingly receptive to training.
In conclusion, are Saarloos Wolfdogs good pets? The answer is nuanced. For the right owner – one who is experienced, active, and dedicated to training and socialization – the Saarloos Wolfdog can be an extraordinary and rewarding companion. If you are seeking a dog with a wolf-like aesthetic combined with the potential for deep companionship, and you are prepared for the responsibilities involved, the Saarloos Wolfdog could be a truly wonderful choice. They offer a unique blend of wild beauty and domestic loyalty, making them a captivating breed for those prepared to embrace their distinct nature.
