The Persistent Issue Of Keeping WolfDogs: Pros And Cons
Keeping Wolfdogs is a decision you’ll need to take after careful consideration.
Adding an animal of any kind to your home is a very important decision indeed. You’ll need to consider every aspect of the good and bad, pros and cons of your decision.
What Exactly Is A WolfDog Anyway?
A wolfdog is a cross between a gray wolf and a domestic dog breed. Usually, the most commonly used dog breeds are German Shepherds and Malamutes among others. The wolf content varies; from as low as one-quarter up to three-quarters.
So, you’re most likely to find them in three-quarters or half Malamute or German Shepherd and half or one-quarter wolf.
Today, the most recognized wolfdog types are:
- The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog
- The Saarloos Wolfhond
- American Tundra Shepherd
- The Kunming Wolfdog.
Because keeping wolfdogs is such a popular topic these days, you may be thinking about getting one for your home.
The following are some pros and cons you’ll seriously need to consider for the well-being of your family, yourself, and the animal in question.
Pros And Cons Of Keeping WolfDogs
Pros
Wolf-Dogs Versus Domestic Dogs
Just like your typical domestic dog, wolfdogs are very affectionate. Also, they are generally stronger health-wise than even the strongest of domestic breeds. They display surprising stamina and they live longer than even the strongest dogs too.
They Are Trainable
If you are careful to train them early on while they are still puppies, you are guaranteed a loyal and very attentive companion for many years to come.
Wolfdogs display surprising stamina and can outlive even the strongest domestic dog breeds.
Cons
A WolfDog Requires Plenty Attention
They are strong, highly intelligent, and cautios creatures. But, their wolf side is independent and can be very unpredictable. This creature will demand a lot more of your time than your average dog.
The Dominant Treat
Even when raised from a puppy, as they age their natural tendency to be dominant becomes obvious. Because of this tendency you must establish your authority as the “Alpha” in the wolfdog’s life early on.
Don’t be surprised if at maturity you see a very stark personality change. Your once playful puppy suddenly wants to be an Alpha: that kind of wolf can be terrifying to live with.
You Must Be Very Careful Around Small Children
Many experts are of the opinion that because there is no guarantee that this animal can ever be 100 percent docile, it’s not worth the risk keeping it as a family pet. Especially in a home with very young children.
However, a few homes have been able to raise them without incidents.
They Can Be Dangerous To People And Other Pets
They can easily be mistaken by people for wild wolves. Also, wolfdogs can be even more dangerous to humans than wild wolves because the dog side of them has lost that natural fear of humans. But, they still have the inborn predatory instinct from their wolf blood.
If they are untrained, they can be very dangerous to other pets especially cats and smaller pets.
They Are Not Bred For Captivity
There is no point getting such an animal then keeping it caged or chained for most of its life. The dog will be miserable. You’ll need quite some space to allow it run around and get as much exercise and fresh air as possible. If you live in an apartment block, for example, keeping wolfdogs may not be in anyone’s best interests.
They Are Not As Docile As Most Domestic Dogs
Don’t expect a wolf to behave like a dog. Especially in a wolfdog with high wolf content. Unlike a domestic dog, a wolfdog will likely not tolerate hitting or raised voices.
Many Vets Will Not Treat Them
Many vets will not accept to treat exotic animals like these. Even if you are lucky to find one that will, they may not have the right resources, training and medication to do so. Your best bet would be to get an exotic pet specialist.
All things considered, keeping wolfdogs can seem pretty daunting indeed. Also note that if at any point you decide you can no longer cope with caring for a wolfdog, you can’t just send it off to a shelter.
Most of them are too full already and the majority of wolf sanctuaries will not accept a wolfdog. How would you cope emotionally if the only option is to euthanize your pet?
In any case, with adequate training, continuous monitoring and some good old luck, keeping a wolfdog could be the best choice of companion and guard you could ever wish for.
If you are sure you can keep up with the requirements and it’s legal to own one where you live, then by all means go ahead.
