Dog Breeds That Look Like Wolves

Although all dogs are descended from wolves, it is a fact that some breeds have retained aspects of their predecessors. So, in this text, we’re going to talk about which dogs look the most like wolves. These are similarities that are not necessarily genetic or ancestral, but that are related to different crosses.

Which dogs look like wolves?

With common ancestors, wolves and dogs are closely related. It is the same species that ended up “split” centuries ago. One part remained wild and the other domesticated. Over time, those trained by men have crossed with each other and, today, there are about 800 different breeds of dog.

While there are visible differences in size, muzzle, ears and fur , there are also dogs that look like wolves. Which are they? The following:

1. Wolfdog

As its name implies, it is a wolf-dog combination made by man, through breeders. There are even three sub-breeds, according to the genetic percentage coming from the wild species (less than 49%, between 50 and 75% and more than 75%). It is a “hybrid” animal, which is banned in many countries, but which, for example, in the United States, is chosen as a pet. Instead of barking, they howl or growl.

2. Alaskan Malamute 

It is one of the oldest breeds of dog in existence, and they were bred in the Arctic area to drag sleds. It looks like the Siberian Husky, but its eyes are not clear. It is a dog resistant to low temperatures, noble, loyal and hardworking. With long, long, strong fur and a broad, deep head, the Alaskan Malamute is very quiet and sociable.

3. Tamaskan 

It is one of the longest-lived dogs that look like wolves (they can live up to 20 years), due to its genetic purity. Originally from Finland, it is a cross between the Alaskan Malamute and the Siberian Husky. It has a very imposing appearance and its appearance makes us think twice before deciding if it is a dog or a wolf. It measures 70 cm and weighs 40 kg (adult males). It has been used since the beginning for dragging sleds and as a snow working dog.

4. Czechoslovakian wolf dog

By its name, we can already define it well. It is a very new breed, more precisely from 1955, when the German Shepherd and the European Wolf crossed paths. This hybrid has the temperament, entertainment, and mentality of the former, along with the stamina, strength and physique of the latter. It looks a lot like the Carpathian Wolf , can live up to 16 years and usually suffer from hip dysplasia.

5. Siberian Husky

Among dogs that look like wolves, the Siberian is the most famous. Large in size (although smaller than the Malamute), it can measure 60 cm and weigh 30 kg. The thick fur allows it to withstand the extreme climates of northern Russia. It is necessary to comb it periodically to eliminate the dead hairs. He prefers to live in a herd (like wolves) and cannot stand society. Although not very obedient, the Siberian Husky is very affectionate, friendly and active (needs a good dose of exercise per day).

6. Utonagan

To create this wolf-like dog, three breeds were crossed: German Shepherd, Alaskan Malamute and Siberian Husky. The result is an animal that has not yet been recognized by any official club, of British origin, and whose name comes from a traditional tale of the Chinook Amerindian tribes, meaning “wolf spirit”. It is a very large animal (76 cm tall and 42 kg) and gets along well with children, and can live up to 15 years.

Other dog breeds that look like wolves are: Canadian Shepherd or Qimmig, German Shepherd, Saarloos Wolf Dog (Netherlands) and Samoyed (Russia).

Main image source: SCMW