| Training | |
| Sensitivity to strangers | |
| Affection for family | |
| Suitable for first-time owners | |
| Ease of grooming | |
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The Saarloos Wolfdog os also known as Saarloos wolfhound or Saarlooswolfhond.
The Saarloos Wolfdog is a dog breed that originated in the Netherlands, which, according to the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale), is classified in group 1, shepherd dogs and herders (excluding Swedish herders). This group also includes the Maremma Shepherd, the Belgian Shepherd, and the Border Collie.
The Saarloos Wolfdog is not a very well-known and widespread dog breed in all countries, although recently it has been increasingly appreciated. Little by little specimens grow in number, and in a few years, there probably will be more. These specimens will stand out due to their elegance, and graceful trot on the streets.
From what we know, in England and the United States there are Saarloos Wolfdogs breeders (known internationally), but there are also some breeding institutions that can be found with patience in Canada, South Africa, and Australia.
Saarloos Wolfdog: Origins
The Saarloos Wolfdog was born thanks to a great dog lover (the German Shepherd in particular), who later became the breeder of this breed: the Dutch Leenndert Saarloos (1884-1969). Saarloos crossed a German Shepherd with a female wolf, from Siberia. Afterward, he crossed the offspring with the father and ended up with dogs with 1/4 of wolf blood.
He continued to breed and created a new canine breed called Europese Wolfhond or European Wolfdog. Specimens that belonged to this new canine breed had outstanding results as guide dogs for blind people, and initially one could think it would be used for that purpose. However, by later “adding” the wolf blood, certain traits were lost and the breed was no longer adequate for this purpose.
The breed was officially recognized in 1975 and, in honor of its creator, it received the name it now has: Saarloos Wolfdog. Nowadays, meticulous breeding carried out by professional breeders has made it an excellent companion dog.
Saarloos Wolfdog: Physical Characteristics
The Saarloos Wolfdog is a large dog: males usually weigh between 80 and 90 lb (36-41 kg), and their height may oscillate between 25 and 30 inches (65 and 75 cm). Females, on the other hand, are smaller: they weigh around 66-77 lb (30-35 kg) and may be 23-27 inches tall (60-70 cm).
This dog has a harmonious build, with well-developed muscles. The chest is slightly bigger and taller at the withers. Its head has a unique lupoid shape, well proportioned in comparison to the rest of the body. The cranium is wide and flat, it stands pretty lightly.
The snout is black in grey wolf specimens. In white ones, although a black snout is preferred, a meat-colored one is allowed. The teeth are sharp, and the denture is complete and powerful. The body is muscular and tends to become progressively wider at the chest.
Its ears are erect, meaty, and medium-sized. The base is quite wide, but they end up almost pointy- They are also covered with hair within.
Its eyes are almond-shaped and are medium-sized. Golden yellow is the preferred color. Its look is pretty attentive and intelligent. The paws are rather long, but never give the impression of a vertically disproportionate dog. Its trot is light and natural.
The tail hangs really low, when it is resting it is shaped like a sabre. It is carried elevated when the animal is in action or if it tries to intimidate someone.
The Saarloos Wolfdog’s hair is strong, hard, and erect (“like sticks”). Permitted colors range from light black to dark grey, light brown to dark brown, and from light cream to white.
Saarloos Wolfdog: Temperament
The Saarloos Wolfdog is an energetic dog, characterized by its pride and independence. Being submissive is not a part of its nature: it is very smart and learns commands quite fast. Although one should know that it rarely behaves with absolute obedience. It really loves its owner, but with strangers, it always tends to maintain a certain discretion and distrust, but they would never attack a person. It can coexist peacefully with other animals and this is very easy to manage.
If you want a well-balanced adult specimen, it is integral that it can be socialized since early puppyhood and this must be done properly. This will imply that gradual but continuous exposure to various environmental stimuli will be necessary, like other dogs, animals, children, environmental sounds and noises, like traffic, for example, etc.
It loves to move and long walks with its owner. This is why it is necessary to guarantee that it has daily free walks. Therefore, it is not fit for a lazy or sedentary owner or owners who for one or another reason cannot be present.
Saarloos Wolfdog: Use
In the past, the Saarloos Wolfdog was known as a rescue dog and was used y civil defense in the Netherlands. Nowadays, this dog is considered an excellent guide dog with a calm and kind character.
Among other aspects, we may mention that it is a very independent dog, that becomes especially attached to its owner and protects him or her diligently and with dedication, so much that it can be considered an amazing companion dog.
Saarloos Wolfdog: Care
The Saarloos Wolfdog is a rustic and robust dog, that generally has excellent health and an average life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. It does not need special care. Due to its Nordic origins, it suffers mainly from heat and not cold. In any case, it can adapt really well to any environmental temperature.
When it comes to its coat, periodical brushing will be enough. As regards its diet, you can read our articles on dog feeding.
Saarloos Wolfdog: Breeders, Price, and Puppies for Sale
The price of this breed’s puppies bought from a certified breeder is considered to be high. We are talking about a starting price of about 1200 dollars or 900 English pounds.
When you adopt a puppy, a reliable breeder provides you with an official veterinarian certificate, in which it is formally stipulated that the animal is in perfect health and dewormed, besides you will have the security that your puppy has been:
- Raised to have good character and good health;
- Carefully selected (its parents were chosen without any genetic diseases);
- Properly socialized, so that it is not too aggressive or fearful;
- Vaccinated and well-cared for.
Now that we have mentioned the most important aspects, you can go to your new four-legged friend, who is certainly waiting for you.
You may be interested in reading another article related to other dog breeds such as:
- Eurasier
- Bergamasco Sheepdog
- Saarloos Wolfdog
- Akita
- Landseer
- Kuvasz
- Fila Brasileiro
- Dogue de Bordeaux
