5 minute read
Wolfdogs
from DQ Magazine Issue 8A
by hqmagazine
CROSS-BREEDING BETWEEN WOLVES AND DOGS
In 1989, the South African police force decided to create a more aggressive dog, so it crossed their trained dogs with wolves in a bid to create a wolfdog hybrid. This was possible because both dogs and wolves belong to the genus Canis, and both their bodies are made up of 78 chromosomes grouped into 39 pairs, making them close relations.
Yet, while this effort was deliberate, hybridisation is occurring in the wild with no human intervention at all, and interbreeding is a growing concern for the wolf population; it is even threatening the wolf as a separate species.
The main concern is that hybrids are affecting the genetic pool, leading to fewer 'pure' wolves. The problem arises as wolves find themselves in closer and closer proximity to pet dogs, as human habitats encroach on natural spaces. Scientists worry that this breeding between the two will remove some of the inherent traits of wolves. These hybrid animals have been seen to lose their wild instinct, threatening their survival ability, and become unpredictable and dangerous. Added to this is the fact that there is no rabies vaccine for wolfdogs yet.
NOTE: It's important to note that not all dogs with wolf-like appearances are wolfdogs. Some breeds, such as the Alaskan Malamute or Siberian Husky, naturally resemble wolves but are domestic dogs with no wolf ancestry.
About wolfdogs
Wolfdogs are canines that result from mating a domestic dog with a wolf (Canis lupus). These hybrids can vary widely in their appearance, behaviour, and characteristics, depending on the percentage of wolf and dog genes they inherit. The term 'wolfdog' is often used to encompass the whole range of hybrids with varying degrees of wolf ancestry.
Physical characteristics
Wolfdogs can exhibit a wide range of physical features. Their appearance may include wolf-like characteristics such as a thick coat, erect ears, and a bushy tail. However, there can be considerable variation, and some may closely resemble domestic dogs.
Behaviour
Wolfdogs may display a combination of wolf and dog behaviours. Wolves are generally more reserved and territorial than dogs, which can influence wolfdogs' behaviour. They may be more independent, less predictable, and potentially challenging to train compared to
Challenges of ownership
Wolfdogs can present unique challenges for owners. Their behaviour may be less predictable, and they often require specialised care and handling. Meeting their socialisation and environmental needs can be demanding, and they are certainly not suitable pets for
Health considerations
Wolfdogs may be prone to certain health issues common to both wolves and dogs. These can include genetic conditions, joint problems, and dietary needs that are different from those of standard domestic dogs.
Other canine hybrids
What happens when domestic dogs start to encroach on wild canine territory? Hybridisation is a serious threat to populations of coyotes, dingoes and, of course, wolves, as already mentioned.
Coyotes and dogs are genetically close enough to produce a fertile canid hybrid. This is a common occurrence, and coyote DNA is becoming increasingly dog-like over time. The Eastern Coyote, for example, is a hybrid made up of 62 per cent Western Coyote, 14 per cent Western Wolf, 13 per cent Eastern Wolf and 11 per cent domestic dog.
Dingo hybrids
There has been so much hybridisation between the dingo and the domestic dog that the vast majority of dingoes are now mixed-breed. This has proven to be a real threat to the future of the species, as there are only a few 'pure' dingoes left with solely dingo heritage. This has led to an increase in the variety of colour patterns and build, blurring the species' typical characteristics.
Hierran Wolfdog
The origin of this wolfdog is unknown, but it originated on the Canary Island of El Hierro. It bears many similarities to wolves, including its erect ears and strong build.
Saarloos Wolfdog
Dutch breeder Leendert Saarloos crossed a male German Shepherd with a European Wolf in the 1930s, creating a reserved canine with long legs, ears like a dog and a very strong pack instinct.
Czechoslovakian Vlcak
This breed was formed by crossing a German Shepherd with a Carpathian Wolf. This wolfdog has become useful in search and rescue operations. It has the physical breed, head and hair of a wolf.
Final thoughts
Wolfdogs, whilst popular, are a growing cause of concern for scientists across the globe. It is anticipated that legislation around these hybrids will tighten in coming years, hopefully keeping these wild species around for many generations to come.
