People have been in love with wolfdogs for hundreds of years.
Kids press their faces up against glass windows to catch a glimpse of a wolf at the zoo. We even watch nature documentaries to get insights on the lives of these mythical animals.
People have even tried to breed wild wolves and dogs to create wolf hybrids. But, this almost always ends up bad for both the owner and the wolf dog.
These mixes can have a wild and dangerous temperaments. Some states even outlaw owning dog-wolf hybrids altogether!
To avoid the dangers of welcoming home a dog-wolf hybrid, we have compiled a list of 15 dog breeds that look like wolves! You can bring home one of these wolf-like dogs, without the behavioral and legal issues of a wolfdog.
Table of Contents
Dogs That Look Like Wolves
1. Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is an incredibly popular dog breed that many dog owners hold near and dear to their heart.
These wolf-like dogs have the same fierce, piercing eyes that wolves have but with a much more cuddly, goofy personality than an actual wild animal. They also have the perked ears, long snout, sculpted body, and feathered tail that are all characteristic traits of a wolf.
Siberian Huskies were originally bred as endurance runners to pull sleds across cold, icy terrains.
Huskies are still used for sled pulling today; however, we see the majority of Siberian Huskies as beloved household pets that need lots of exercise and have a tendency to make their owners laugh with their strange vocalizations.
2. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are often mistaken for Siberian Huskies as they are very similar in appearance, but they are a less commonly recognized breed.
Malamutes share the same long snout, pointed ears, and feathered tails as the wolf-like Husky, except their eyes are much kinder and they have fluffy, pillowy fur that hides their muscular body.
Because of their adorable, fluffy looks and calm personality, they quickly became a beloved household pet. They are exceptionally loyal and loving towards family members but are a bit aloof when meeting new people or dogs.
Coupled with the looks of a wolf, Malamutes have the strength of a wild animal too.
These body builders originated in Alaska and were responsible for faithfully pulling heavy sleds over short distances.
3. Northern Inuit Dog
The Northern Inuit Dog is a relatively new breed that was first bred in 1980. Also known as the Utonagan they are bred by crossing German Shepherds, Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes.
By taking three dogs that look like wolves, and breeding them together, the result was a mix that looks like an actual wolf. These dogs are so wolf-like they were featured in Game of Thrones as wolf replacements!
Their feathered tails, triangular ears, long snouts, and multi-color coats all look like a wolf. However, these dogs definitely inherited the kind eyes and fluffy coat of an Alaskan Malamute, so they look much less intimidating.
Northern Inuits are wonderful family pets that act and look very much like a Blue Bay Shepherd. They are energetic, a bit stubborn at times, but overall friendly and love their families.
4. Tamaskan
The Tamaskan has striking yellow eyes, a wolf-shaped head, pointy ears, a feathered tail, and muscular limbs. All of these features contribute to their wolf-like appearance and can cause someone to mistake your dog for a wolf.
‘Tamaskan’ translates to ‘mighty wolf’ in Northern American Indian languages. So, it is really is no surprise that this dog looks like its wild ancestors.
This breed originated in Finland as a result of crossing the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, and various other sled-dog breeds.
Tamaskans are fast learners and eager to please; they were bred to be working dogs. They have a calm disposition that makes them levelheaded, and their highly teachable personality makes them suited for many jobs, including therapy work and serving as a gun dog.
5. Kugsha
A Kugsha is so wolf-like they are almost identical to a wolf.
Kugshas are a new breed that were originally called the American Husky. However, this name was not well received, so the names Kugsha or Amerindian Malamute are much more commonly used.
The Kugsha has the same multi-color coat, piercing eyes, alert ears, and long face that is characteristic of a wolf in the wild.
This breed has a murky history; however, it is known that this breed was created by crossing an Alaskan Malamute with other dog breeds, likely sled dogs.
Their hard-working personality makes them a very dominant and stubborn dog that would likely push first time dog owners to their limits. Kugshas are extremely loyal and hate being separated from their owners, so busy individuals should not welcome this wolf-like dog into their home.
6. Canadian Eskimo Dog
The Canadian Eskimo Dog is an extremely large breed that can intimidate people with just its sheer size. This breed averages around 105 pounds and its fluffy white coat makes them look even bigger.
Canadian Eskimo dogs are a very rare breed, so it is very unlikely you will ever meet one.
This ancient breed was bred 4,000 years ago as a working dog to pull sleds, but only 300 currently remain in existence. Their rarity makes them even more mythical!
These dogs have yellow, intense eyes that give them a wolfdog appearance and pointy, alert ears to match.
Canadian Eskimo dogs may look scary, but they are known for making excellent family dogs. They are loyal, loving, and very snuggly with their favorite people.
7. Shikoku
This breed is known for their loveable personality.The Shikoku dog is a Japanese breed that goes by many names including the Kochi Ken or the Japanese Wolfdog. These wolf dogs have a head shape similar to that of a wolf and have the dark, mixed coat color that wild wolves are famous for.
Unlike a wolf, these dogs have curled tails and small, pointed ears that make them look like teddy bears. They have a strong resemblance to the Shiba Inu.
They were originally outdoor dogs who lived in Japan’s mountains with the task of hunting wild boar.
Their lifestyle is much tamer now as they are more commonly seen in households as highly affectionate pets. They can, however, have dog aggression if not properly trained, which is very common in other Japanese breeds.
8. Seppala Siberian Sleddog
The Seppala Siberian Sleddog used to be considered a Siberian Husky, but overtime, this beautiful dog became its own breed. These dogs have a distinct look and temperament that makes them very different than the average Siberian Husky.
Seppala Siberian Sleddogs look more wolf-like than a Husky as their bodies are leaner and taller. They also have ears that are closer together and more pointed.
These pups are much more relaxed in the home than Huskies, but they are still bursting with energy and need lots of physical activity during the day. They settle down nicely at the end of the day and love to cuddle.
9. Caucasian Shepherd
Caucasian Shepherds have the appearance of a wolf and bear crossed together. They have the long snout and face of a wolf, but the fluffy body and soft eyes of a bear. They have long, gorgeous fur that was designed to keep them warm even in the coldest climates.
These giants were originally bred to be livestock guardian dogs.
Caucasian Shepherds may be adorable and cuddly, but they are known for being hard-headed.
They also have a tendency to protect their family members. They need an experienced owner who can overcome their stubborn nature and keep their aggression in check.
10. Shiloh Shepherd
The Shiloh Shepherd is a beautiful, wolf-like breed that was bred to be a giant German Shepherd. German Shepherds were first crossed with Alaskan Malamutes, and later Canadian White Shepherds and Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs, to produce a large working dog that looks like a wolf.
Shiloh Shepherds have a long snout, perky ears and a very similar color to wild wolves with a gray, black, and tan coat. The only physical trait that ruins their disguise as a wolf is their massive ears! Their ears are tall and proud like that of a rabbit.
Shiloh Shepherds make great family dogs as they are slightly lower energy than a typical German Shepherd. They are still hard workers, but they know how to unwind at the end of a long day.
11. Pomsky
The Pomsky is essentially a miniature wolf or a wolf-like puppy! Owners love this permanent puppy look.
This designer breed is bred by crossing a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky.
Pomsky pups have piercing wolf-like eyes, a muscular body, fluffy tail and perked ears. They just so happen to be in a much smaller body.
Despite being very adorable, Pomskies can be very high-strung dogs.
Their parent breeds are two historically stubborn breeds, so these pups demand the best. They can also be very nervous around large groups of people, other dogs, or children. These dogs do very well with single adults or couples. Don’t let their tiny body fool you, they still have plenty of energy and are ready to go on adventures.
12. Native American Indian Dog
The Native American Indian Dog is a rare breed whose popularity has recently grown.
These rugged, magnificent dogs look incredibly similar to a wolf and could easily be mistaken as one! They have a beautiful coat of different colors including gray, black, tan, and brown. They also have a wolf-like face, complete with pointy ears.
However, their personality proves that they are anything but wild. Native American Indian Dogs love to please their owner and learn quickly due to their intelligence. They are hard workers with a gentle, calm disposition.
Native American Indian Dogs are incredible family dogs that tolerate kid behavior and will watch over your children like another parent.
13. American Alsatian
The American Alsatian is a unique dog breed bred from Alaskan Malamutes, German Shepherds, Great Pyrenees and Anatolian Shepherds.
These dogs were selectively bred to have a wild, wolf-like appearance but with a calm temperament. Their strong, amber eyes, and lean, muscular build helps them to look like wolves.
The American Alsatian is a lovely, relaxed breed that is quiet and easy-going. They like to exercise but are also happy spending a day inside chewing on a bone or snuggling with their owners. They are, however, a very large dog, weighing between 90 to 100 pounds, so make sure you have a big enough home!
14. Greenland Dog
Greenland dogs have an uncanny resemblance to a wolf.
As a hard-working breed, these dogs have a wild look to them in addition to wild behavior. Their eyes are much less intense than a wolf’s, but all the other features are almost identical.
Greenland dogs are a strictly working breed, this means that if they do not have a job to do, they will get frustrated quickly and will likely channel this frustration into destructive behaviors or possibly even aggression.
They are highly skilled and are great at whatever role you train them for, just make sure they have a job.
15. Alaskan Klee Kai
The Alaskan Klee Kai is very similar to the mighty Pomsky. However, the difference between these two breeds, is that the Pomsky is a mixed breed, while the Alaskan Klee Kai is a purebred dog. They also do not have the fluffy appearance of a Pomsky and look more like a miniature husky.
Alaskan Klee Kais are beloved for their wolfdog look and piercing blue eyes. They love to explore the great outdoors and absolutely adore a good hike with their family.
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a much better family pet than a Pomsky.
They are very people oriented and bond closely to their family members. However, they do have the same anxious behavior Pomskies have around new people or dogs, so they need extensive socialization to overcome their introverted nature.
Wolf-Like Dogs vs Wolves Comparison
Keeping a dog that looks like a wolf will give you the pleasure of having a “wolfdog” without all the complications that accompany wolf hybrids.
The 15 dog breeds above are not wolf hybrids. They have no wolf in their blood.
Wolf hybrids are created when a breeder mixes a wolf with a domesticated dog. Typically, breeders use Gray Wolves as this particular species mates most easily with domesticated dogs.
These hybrids will be scared of most people and will likely be very skittish rather than outgoing and loving. They are also much more difficult to train because of their independent nature, so you can expect lots of peeing in the house, digging in the yard, hunting small pets and destruction.
Wolf hybrids typically act out with aggression to protect themselves.
In addition to their unpredictable nature, there is a lot of questionable breeding practices. Getting a wild animal to mate with a dog is not an easy process.
Finally, wolfdog hybrids are banned in many cities and places of residence in America. They are also banned in the U.K by the Dangerous Wild Animals Act.
Many dog lovers who adopt wolfdogs end up surrendering them because they are simply too difficult to keep. Many shelters will not accept these dogs either.
| Dog | Wolf Hybrid | |
|---|---|---|
| Personality | Much more outgoing because they were bred to be companions over thousands of years. | Fear humans because they have instincts to protect themselves and run away from danger. Most wolves have never had any contact with a human, so they are much more likely to act skittish or aggressive. |
| Strength | Gentle and docile. They do not have to fend for themselves… that is why they have their humans. | Wolves had to evolve to have more body strength and strength in their jaw to handle the pressures of intense hunts and ripping up meat. |
| Survival | It is nearly impossible for a domesticated dog to survive on its own in the wild. Dogs were selectively bred to thrive in the companionship of humans. They rely on them for food, water, shelter and warmth. | Completely self-sufficient and only need their pack to survive. They have the skills to hunt, the heartiness to live, and the strength to fight off anyone that may want to harm them. |
| Diet | Dogs are omnivores meaning they eat both meat and plants. Their bodies are designed to process things such as carbohydrates that a wolf couldn’t. | Carnivores and only eat meat. They also eat an incredible amount of food at once because they eat less frequently. They go long periods of time without eating because they have to hunt and work for their food. |
| Growth | Puppies can rely entirely on humans to keep them safe, so they have nothing to worry about! They can stay in their childhood phase much longer and get away with puppy antics. | Wolf pups have to mature much faster than dog puppies. Wolves have to learn how to survive in the wild at an early age. Their parents can protect them, but they also have to have strong instincts and problem-solving skills to stay alive. |
| Play | For dogs, play is just a fun part of childhood and adulthood too! It is a way to be social with other dogs and learn some manners. | Play is essential for survival. Play helps teach wolf pups skills like hunting, discipline and respect. |
Summary
Owning a wolf may seem like a dream come true. Yet, this dream is far from reality. A wolf is much better when admired from afar, rather than being trapped in the confines of your home.
We do not recommend adopting a dog-wolf hybrid, no matter how magnificent they look.
Wolf dog hybrids can have many behavioral issues that are almost impossible to remedy. They are also banned in many states.
The better option is to adopt one of these 15 dogs that look like wolves! These wolf-like dogs have friendly personalities, yet keep the ‘wild’ look that many owners want.
They may all look wolf-like, but they all have different temperaments, exercise levels, and needs. It is important to research any wolf-like breed to make sure it is a good fit for you.
Did you decide to adopt on of these wolf-like dogs? If so, make sure to check out our 350 top wolf names and let us know which one you chose in the comments.
The better option is to adopt one of these 15 dogs that look like wolves! These wolf-like dogs have friendly personalities, yet keep the ‘wild’ look that many owners want.
