Saarlooswolfhond

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Breed Attribute

Breed Details

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Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Saarlooswolfhond is a wolf-like dog hybrid that has a Dutch origin. The dog is unmistakably like a wolf in appearance. The dog was able to retain it's strong pack instinct which means owners will need to have firm handling due to the dog's large size and strong-willed temperament. The Saarlooswolfhond is also known to be called as Saarloos Wolf Dog.

These dogs not only look like a wolf but also have an attitude that resembles that of the wolf. They are not friendly and their family is not as important to them as their pack is. These dogs still enjoy being inside the house and being with their family members despite being wolf-like in nature. They should not be left outside or forgotten as they need human companionship and interaction too.

The dog is a wonderful guard and watch dog. They are also good around with children but these children must be around since the dog has been raised to not have problem with socialization. Strangers should approach or move with caution when it comes to these dogs.

Color

The dog's coat colors can vary from Wolf-gray, Agouti and Wolf-Brown with limited White markings.

Coat

The dog's summer coat differs greatly from the winter coat. In the summer, the dog's guard hair of the topcoat predominates. With the winter coat, the dog's undercoat predominates mostly. Together with the guard hair of the top coat forms a coat that is profuse. The change in season and temperature can have a big impact on the undercoat. However, the disposition to this should always be present. The belly, the inside of the upper thighs and the scrotum are essentially covered by hair.

Personality

The Saarlooswolfhond even after several crosses still has a wolf-like attitude. Children and strangers should be more watchful around this not very friendly dog. Early socialization and training may help this breed to be more social. The dog enjoys being in the house with their family and should never be left outside for too long. The dog makes an excellent guard dog. Their wolf-like facade will surely discourage intruders. The dog is very agile and muscular with a strong bite. These dogs are very loyal of their owners and can be extremely protective of them as well as of the whole family. The dog will also tend to prey on smaller animals as their hunting instincts kick in. Proper leadership and sufficient socialization should also be provided to make these dogs a delight to have in the household.

Care

The dog's weather proof coat only needs regular combing and brushing. Bathing should only be done whenever necessary to avoid losing the skin's natural oil. The breed is known to be generally healthy and free from any genetic diseases. They can be prone to hip dysplasia, spondylosis of the spine and other health and temperament problems. Casual breeding is discouraged to avoid these problems from occurring. Given proper nutrition and care, sufficient exercise and regular visits to the vet, these dogs can live up to 10-12 years on the average.

Training

Training for this dog requires firmness, consistency and lots of patience. The breed is extremely strong-willed which also means that they don't take well into obedience. Early socialization for the dog would be beneficial as with most large dogs.

Activity

These dogs require plenty of regular exercise everyday. Play will take care of most of their exercise needs but as most dogs, they will need to fulfill their primal instinct to migrate which is walking or jogging. Owners should always emphasize that the dog is a pack member by heeding them beside or behind the handler and should enter and exit doors after the humans. This dog is a wonderful companion taken on a daily, long, brisk walk or jog. They can also be taken alongside the handler while biking or skating if handler can manage it. They enjoy hikes and woodland related activities. The dog will require plenty of space to run around and play. Thus, they will not do well in an apartment or small space living. A large, securely fenced yard would be most appropriate. These dogs are well-suited for cold climates and can live outdoors.