German Shepherd Wolf Mix Exercise
How to exercise a German Shepherd Wolf mix?
Given that obesity is a major issue for Wolf dog hybrids, getting proper exercise appears to be a no-brainer.
Wolf dogs cannot be walked or played with in the same way as dogs can.
Puppies can walk on a leash until they are large and powerful enough to disregard you and pull you over to chase a squirrel.
Because they cant be walked or trained, most Wolf dog hybrids end up living in an outside pen.
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Wolf Hybrid Puppies For Sale Near Me
A wolf hybrid puppy will cost between $1000 and $3000 and entails much more of a commitment to research and care than other dog breeds. You should look for the same qualities as you would a purebred dog if you are set on owning a wolfdog. Choose pups that are bright-eyed, alert, and active. Make sure there is no evidence of diseases such as diarrhea, coughing, poor body condition, or discharge from the eyes or nose. However, wolfdog pups may not be as social as domesticated puppies, and wariness is common. Many breeders put their pups through extensive socialization, but they can still have inherent fear.
Hybrid German Shepherd Wolftraining
Its likely your german shepherd wolf puppies will be intelligent, but if they favour the wolf side of their heritage they will be stubborn.
If they favour their German Shepherd parentage, they will be eager to please and be easily trainable.
Either way, you should be training your dog with positive reinforcement. Give them rewards when they follow your command or when they stop unwanted behaviour.
Many people believe that dominance training is the way forward with this dog as wolves are pack animals, but studies show that this training method leads to further aggression and reduces the quality of your relationship with your doggy friend.
This Hybrid German Shepherd Wolf Breed is for someone who has experience training strong-willed dogs before you need to be firm and consistent. Do not let them think they are the boss of you.
Socializing a dog like this is very important as the wolf can be reserved and unpredictable.
Make sure to socialize your Hybrid German Shepherd Wolf Mix with a range of people and different situations. Also, make sure they know its a positive experience by giving them encouragement and plenty of treats.
Mental stimulation is very important if you do not want your Wolfdog to get bored and chew everything in sight. You can give them lots of toys and play with them, playtime can decrease their stress levels and make them more confident.
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Should You Adopt A German Shepherd Wolf Mix Read Before Buying
German Shepherd Wolf Mixes are popular wolf dogs. As the name indicates, a wolf dog is a hybrid resulting from the cross breeding of a domestic dog and a wolf. These breeds cannot be considered purebreds and are usually referred to as mutts. While wolf dogs can be trained to become beautiful, affectionate and loving companions, they are not the perfect choice of pet for average dog owners.
Keep in mind that such breeds are illegal to own in several areas, hence if you were to lose your dog and he ended up at a local shelter, chances are you might not get your furry friend back. Heres everything you need to know about the breed if you are considering adoption:
What Is A German Shepherd Wolf Mix Breed Combinations
The first hybrid of a Wolf and German Shepherd was done in 1932 by Leendert Saarloos, and certain studies actually show that they existed in Teotihuacan a long time ago.
Not all German shepherd and wolf mixes for sale are a half-German shepherd and half wolf. Some may be three-quarter GSD and one-quarter wolf.
This would mean that one parent is a full German Shepherd and the other parent is half wolf and half GSD.
Some mixes are sold where the wolf is a great-grandparent or even a great-great-grandparent. The more dog DNA in the mix, the better if you want a companion animal that can be taught basic obedience.
Unfortunately, they may all be considered wolves under the law.
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German Shepherd Wolf Mix Health
All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems as all breeds are susceptible to some things more than others. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. If they wont do this, then look no more and dont consider that breeder at all. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition.
In general, wolf dogs are exceptionally healthy animals and are not prone to common genetic health problem, like most dog breeds.
Do not purchase a puppy from a breeder who cannot provide you with written documentation that the parents were cleared of health problems that affect the breed. A careful breeder and one who truly cares about the breed itself, screens their breeding dogs for genetic disease and breed only the healthiest and best-looking specimens. One of the most common health problems with dogs is obesity. Keeping this under control is your responsibility.
Are Wolf German Shepherd Mix Health Issues Common
As we mentioned above the life expectancy of a German Shepherd Wolf Mix is up to 14 or even 15. However, the German Shepherd breed is vulnerable to serious genetic diseases that can get passed down to this particular Wolfdog hybrid.
- Hip Dysplasia: A painful hip joint deformity that causes loss of mobility and lameness.
- Elbow Dysplasia: A joint deformity that affects the elbows and can cause pain and loss of mobility.
- Bloat: A build-up of gas in the stomach that can cause it to twist and lead to shock or even death.
- Cancer: Abnormal cell growth that can spread throughout the body.
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How Can You Tell If Your German Shepherd Is Part Wolf
If youve never seen past family or medical records of your German Shepherd, you will be happy to know that your dog will not be part wolf.
German Shepherds were never bred with wolves when the breed was standardized in Germany in the 1890s, which means that there is no element of wolf in their DNA.
Still, they are part of the Canidae family in the same way as other domesticated dogs are.
However, you can still commit to a genetic test to see if your German Shepherd has come from a family that attempted to breed a wolf into the genetic line.
Also, when buying or adopting your GSD, the seller should make you aware of if the dog is part wolf.
Still, if the genetic test proves that no parent was either a wolf of part wolf hybrid, its highly unlikely that your German Shepherd is part wolf.
How To Exercise A German Shepherd Wolf Mix
Since obesity is an issue for wolf-dog hybrids, getting sufficient exercise is vital to their health.
However, this can become quite complicated since wolf-dogs cannot be walked and played with like normal dogs.
Puppies may be able to walk on a leash in the beginning. But there will come a day when theyre strong enough to ignore you and pull you across the street to go chasing a squirrel.
Sadly, a lot of wolf-dog hybrids wind up staying permanently in an outdoor pen because they cannot be walked or trained.
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There Is No Breed Registry For Wolf Mixes
Not only are wolf mixes not recognized by the AKC or other licensing organizations, but theres no registry for them at all. That means theres no reputable way to prove that your German Shepherd Wolf Mix has any actual wolf in them at all.
In fact, theres some dispute as to what a wolf mix actually is. Most experts would contend that a wolf mix is one with a purebred wolf in its bloodline within four or five generations. Others dispute that claim, however, and have their own metric for calling something a wolf mix.
Regardless of which metric you ultimately use, however, theres really no way to know if your German Shepherd Wolf Mix is a wolf mix at all. Its just another thing to keep in mind if youre considering purchasing one of these animals.
How Large Can A German Shepherd Wolf Hybrid Get
A German Shepherd Wolf mixs size is not the smallest, despite the fact that almost everything about them is unpredictable.
They can be as small as a German Shepherd for 49 pounds, or as large as a large male Mackenzie Valley Wolf, the largest known Wolf species, for 180 pounds.
Females are smaller and heavier than males, as they are in all Wolves species and most canine breeds.
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How Large Can A Gsd Wolf Hybrid Get
Despite the endless unknowns surrounding a GSD wolf mix, their size is actually predictable.
The smallest hybrids will be as small as a GSD roughly 49 pounds.
The largest will be about 180 pounds, which is the size of a large male Mackenzie Valley wolf, the largest known wolf species.
As is common in most wolf species and dog breeds, females tend to be smaller. Neutering doesnt seem to impact how large a GSD or a GSD wolf-hybrid will become.
GSDs are as tall as small wolves, but wolves can actually reach heights of 34 inches tall at the shoulders.
Why Wolves & Wolf
Dogs have been bred for thousands of years to do what people want them to do.
Its in their genes to not only please people but to watch them constantly to see if the person is going to ask them to do something. They also ask people for affection.
Wolves are just the opposite and many wolf-dog mixes also suffer from this character flaw, especially if theyre half-wolf.
They often wont look at a person and dont solicit affection from people. Since they have no drive to please people, they wont.
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German Shepherd Wolf Mix Personality
As with any breed, the temperament and disposition will vary according to the ancestry. This is not going to be a typical dog by any measure. They are going to be more aloof and stubborn than a typical non-hybrid breed. Overall, the German Shepherd Wolf Mix can grow up to be a friendly pet. With time, the dog is likely to become attached to the owner and with other pets residing in the same house. However, because of their strong prey drive, it is best you keep your dog away from small pets, such as rabbits, hamsters and cats.
These large energetic dogs tend to get destructive. Leaving your dog unsupervised for several hours may cause him to get into mischief. In some cases, your dog may exhibit consistent wolf like characteristics. Unfortunately, there is not much you can do as the dog will remain destructive, aloof and fearful, no matter how much time you spend on training. Another major concern regarding wolf dogs is whether they can be trusted or not.
Hybrid German Shepherd Wolftemperament
The temperament of the Hybrid German Shepherd Wolf can only be described as unpredictable this is especially true in frightening or new situations.
Because of their wolf instincts, the Wolfdog may be aggressive and react unpredictably when they feel threatened.
These instincts can be slightly modified through early socialization so better to have a young German Shepherd Wolf mix puppy, but this will be difficult for new owners. because it takes hard training with the German Shepherd Wolf mix puppy.
This Wolf-Shepherds breed thats also very protective and therefore correct introductions with other people and pets is necessary.
The German Shepherd Wolf mix is known for howling.
This should come as no surprise due to their pack animal instinct inherited from wolves. Howling is one of the most common forms of the Wolf to wolf communication.
Unnecessary and problematic howling may arise if this Mixed Breed is left alone for prolonged periods of time. This trait makes this dog undesirable to busy individuals.
This Hybrid German Shepherd Wolf Mix also has a very high prey drive. Therefore, we do not recommend they living in homes with smaller animals such as cats, rabbits, or hamsters. They may get along with other dogs, but they should definitely be watched and introduced to otherdog breeds at a young age.
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What Happens If Your Gsd Wolf Mix Bites Or Attacks Anyone
If your German shepherd wolf mix does happen to attack anyone on or off of your property or does manage to kill someones beloved pet or valuable livestock, then youre in serious trouble.
Youre legally responsible for the actions of your GSD wolf mix, even if they havent left your property.
Not only will you have to pay restitution and possible court costs, but depending on your local laws, your GSD wolf mix may be confiscated and euthanized.
Your chances of appeal are very small, and will involve significant legal expenses.
Hybrid German Shepherd Wolf Price
Buying a German Shepherd Wolf Mix
If you believe this Hybrid German Shepherd Wolf is the right dog for you, and can fully commit to them, you should start researching where to buy a Hybrid German Shepherd Wolf.
You can look for private breeders or adopt from rescue centres that specialize in Wolfdogs.
Make sure you visit the breeder, meet them and ask them plenty of questions about the Hybrid German Shepherd Wolf breed. Ask them what this hybrid breed is like, what is a typical day like living with a Wolfdog?
A breeder that is trustworthy and that cares for the welfare of their pups will want to know more about you. Many breeders and adoption centres will give you questionnaires to assess if they want to give you one of their pups.
They do this because people adopt or buy a Wolfdog, not expecting how much work and effort you have to put into caring for them and then wind up taking them to a rescue centre. No good breeder wants this for their pups.
How Much Does A German Shepherd Wolf Mix Cost?A Hybrid German Shepherd Wolf will cost around $1000.
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A German Shepherd Wolf Mix Requires Plenty Of Training And Socialization From An Early Age
Any wolf dog like the German Shepherd Wolf mix is going to require plenty of training, socialization and mental stimulation beginning early in life.
As we did mention briefly above, the German Shepherd Wolf Mix can be unpredictable when it comes to a number of temperamental traits. For this reason, its especially important that you take time to train and socialize your German Shepherd Wolf Mix early on in his life.
As with all dogs, its ideal to begin socializing your German Shepherd Wolf Mix during puppyhood. Socialization will include introducing your dog to new environments, places, people, sounds, sights, smells, and animals as often as possible.
Try and help your German Shepherd Wolf Mix see these experiences as positive, and refrain from forcing your dog to do something that is clearly frightening or stressful for him. This could only exasperate fears down the road and lead to worsened behavioral issues or fear-based aggression.
Socialization should not stop when your German Shepherd Wolf Mix is an adult. He should be around his family as often as possible to help ensure he remains mentally and physically sound.
Along with socializing your German Shepherd Wolf Mix early, its also imperative to begin training as early as possible.
Although a German Shepherd Wolf Mix may not be as easy to train as a standard German Shepherd, he is trainable.
Instead, stick with positive reinforcement techniques that utilize treats, praise, and patience.
Final Thoughts & Our Youtube Video On The German Shepherd Wolf Mix
When it comes to owning a GSD wolf hybrid or mix, the negatives outweigh the positives.
Since youre not dealing with a purebred dog or purebred wolf, appearance, health problems, and behavior will be impossible to predict.
The only known factors are that this is a large animal with the ability to inflict serious damage on pets, livestock, wildlife, and people, especially children.
Wolf German Shepherd arent trainable animals because they have little to no desire to please people.
You may have to keep the animal in a pen for the rest of its life. You may never be able to find a vet willing to look after the GSD wolf mix.
You may have laws banning the ownership of such an animal where you live.
Then theres the potential legal issues if the GSD wolf mix attacks anyone visiting your home, or if the animal gets out and attacks someone.
A GSD wolf mix puppy or adult costs thousands of dollars. You will need plenty of land, fencing, and legal advice in order to keep it.
Its just not worth the hassle to you, your neighbors, and the community at large. When it comes to any wolf-dog mix, leave it alone. Get one of the safer German Shepherd mixes instead.
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Whats The Price Of German Shepherd Wolf Mix Puppies
If you want to buy a German Shepherd Wolf Mix, you can expect to pay at least $1,000. Some puppies will go for twice that much or more, depending on the breeder.
However, this is definitely a world where buyer beware reigns supreme. Many wolf-mixes dont actually have any wolf in them at all theyre just regular puppies whose parents bear a closer resemblance to wolves than other dogs. The breeder then uses this as an excuse to mark up the price.
Even if you do find one thats a true wolf mix, youll likely be dealing with breeders who are a bit unusual. It takes a certain kind of person to try to keep and breed wolves, and they may not be as easy to deal with as your average breeder.
Keep in mind that in the United States, its illegal to own a purebred wolf for any reason. The animals are endangered, not to mention dangerous, so if you come across a breeder who has actual wolves on their property, youre dealing with a criminal.
Also, in areas where wolf mixes are illegal, theyre often euthanized immediately after being confiscated. Ask yourself what kind of breeder would raise animals that are at such high risk of being slaughtered. If you still feel good about the person youre dealing with, then by all means proceed, but this transaction requires quite a bit more research than your average puppy purchase.