All about the Saarloos Wolfdog: Wolf-Like Breed Guide

Many dog lovers are equally fascinated by the majestic wolf, though keeping a wolf as a pet in the UK is heavily restricted without a special licence. For enthusiasts who admire the wolf’s appearance but want a domestic dog, the Siberian Husky and the Northern Inuit Dog are popular choices. However, for those truly committed to owning a breed that shows actual wolf heritage, the Saarloos wolfdog is unmatched.

The Saarloos wolfdog is a wolf/dog hybrid breed originally developed by Dutch breeder Leendert Saarloos in 1935, combining a male German Shepherd with a female Eurasian grey wolf. Over generations, the breed has balanced wolf genetics with domestic traits, typically featuring around 25% wolf DNA. Ownership of high-wolf-content Saarloos wolfdogs is rare and regulated in the UK due to temperament and legal restrictions, but well-bred Saarloos wolfdog puppies offer a unique and striking companion for experienced owners committed to responsible care. Finding a Saarloos wolfdog puppy from reputable breeders ensures healthy lineage and compliance with UK pet laws.

The origins of the Saarloos Wolfdog

Leendert Saarloos, a Dutch zoologist and breeder, sought in 1935 to create a dog that preserved the natural, vital instincts of the wolf while maintaining the domestic qualities of the German Shepherd. He bred a male German Shepherd to a female European wolf from Rotterdam Zoo. The aim was to produce a superior working and guarding dog with fierce instincts. Surprisingly, the resulting wolfdog hybrids were more reserved and less aggressive than expected, retaining much of the German Shepherd's personality but with a distinctive wild appearance.

Though the breed did not fulfil the original working dog vision, it is considered fully domesticated today and valued as a loyal companion. The Saarloos wolfdog remains relatively uncommon outside the Netherlands but is recognised for its unique blend of nature and nurture. It is sometimes trained to assist people with special needs, showcasing its intelligence and trainability.

Physical appearance

The Saarloos wolfdog’s hallmark is its striking wolf-like appearance, resembling a European grey wolf with its powerful, athletic build and balanced features. They stand 60 to 75 cm tall at the withers and weigh up to roughly 45 kg (around 99 lbs), with males generally larger and heavier than females.

The coat is mid-length, usually featuring the dominant grey and white wolf colouration but also possible in reddish shades or pure white from a recessive gene. Their muscular yet agile frame allows them to move quickly and lightly, similar to wild wolves. Distinctive features include almond-shaped eyes that can be amber or brown and erect, pointed ears contributing to their alert expression.

Temperament and behaviour

Saarloos wolfdogs are known for their reserved and independent nature, reflecting their wolf ancestry. They form strong, loyal bonds with their family but often remain wary or aloof around strangers, requiring early and consistent socialisation to manage their natural shyness. Their pack instincts mean they thrive in households where they feel part of a family unit, and they do not do well as solitary dogs without regular canine companionship.

Due to their intelligence and will, they require firm but gentle training and lots of mental stimulation. The breed is generally quiet and not prone to excessive barking, though they may alert bark if they sense potential intruders. When kept with children, supervision and social integration are essential to ensure respectful behaviour, preventing dominance issues that can arise from misunderstanding pack dynamics.

Exercise and social needs

Exercise is vital for the Saarloos wolfdog’s wellbeing. They need multiple daily walks and plenty of off-lead playtime in secure, spacious areas. Their endurance and energy levels are high, so providing opportunities to run with other dogs is beneficial for socialisation and mental health.

The breed does not tolerate confinement well; restricting them to crates or small spaces can cause stress. Ample outdoor access, enrichment activities, and consistent interaction with other dogs help maintain a balanced temperament and prevent behavioural problems.

Health and longevity

The Saarloos wolfdog typically enjoys a lifespan of 10 to 12 years and benefits from hybrid vigour due to its wolf heritage. However, they remain susceptible to some ailments common in German Shepherds, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, eye disorders, and spinal conditions.

Prospective owners should seek Saarloos wolfdog puppies from reputable breeders who conduct genetic health screening, including tests for hyperuricosuria, degenerative myelopathy, and progressive rod-cone degeneration to promote healthy breeding practices and minimise inherited diseases. Regular veterinary care and a balanced diet further support their health longevity.

Where to find Saarloos Wolfdog puppies

Due to the specialized nature of this breed and legal considerations around wolfdog ownership, finding Saarloos wolfdog puppies requires patience and careful research. Reputable Saarloos wolfdog breeders adhere to responsible breeding standards prioritising health, temperament, and UK regulations.

If you are considering adopting a Saarloos wolfdog, ensure you understand the breed’s complex needs and behavioural traits fully. Ownership is best suited for experienced dog owners able to commit to a lifetime of social, physical, and mental care for this unique and beautiful breed.

Frequently asked questions about Saarloos Wolfdogs

Can Saarloos wolfdogs be kept as family pets?

Yes, but they require dedicated socialisation and supervision around children, given their strong pack instincts and independent nature to ensure safe and harmonious family life.

Do Saarloos wolfdogs bark a lot?

Generally, this breed is quiet and not prone to excessive barking unless there is a need to alert or defend their home.

Are Saarloos wolfdogs easy to train?

They are intelligent and trainable but need firm, consistent, and patient handling due to their strong-willed temperament.

Is the Saarloos Wolfdog a good breed for novice owners?

No, their independent and sometimes reserved nature means that they are best suited to owners with prior experience in handling strong-willed breeds and an understanding of their special socialisation needs.