Saarloos wolfdog
 |
| Saarloos wolfdog |
| Other names |
Saarloos Wolfhound |
| Country of origin |
Netherlands |
|
|
| Classification and standards |
| FCI |
Group 1 Section 1.11 #311 |
standard |
| UKC |
Herding Dogs wolf/dog hybrids |
standard |
|
| Dog (Canis lupus familiaris) |
The Saarloos wolfdog (Dutch: Saarlooswolfhond) is an established breed of a wolfdog hybrid.
History [edit]
In 1921, Dutch breeder Leendert Saarloos started cross-breeding a German Shepherd Dog male to a female Mackenzie Valley Wolf (Canis lupus occidentalis). Although he was passionate about the German Shepherd, he found most dogs to be too "domestic" and wanted to breed in more natural properties in order to get better working dogs. The result wasn't entirely what Mr. Saarloos hoped for. This breed is cautious, reserved and lacks the ferocity to attack. Until Leendert Saarloos died in 1969, he was in full control over the breeding of his "European wolfdog". The Dutch Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1975. To honour its creator they changed the name to "Saarloos Wolfdog". In 1981 the breed was recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). In the past, some Saarloos wolfdogs were trained as guide dogs for the blind and as rescue dogs, but most dogs of this breed are currently kept as "family dog".
Size & Appearance [edit]
The Saarloos wolfdog is a fairly large dog, up to 76 cm at the shoulder and weighing up to 40 kg. It is an athletic dog in build, with medium bone, and a strong and muscular body. They move lightly on their feet and have an elegant march. Its coat is short and dense, providing good protection from the weather. There are 3 colours; wolf-grey / red / white. Because the wolf-grey genes are dominant, this is the most common colour. Genes for white colour are recessive, making this uncommon although this colour is accepted. The Saarloos has wolf-like expressions, as well as a wolf-like head.
See also [edit]
External links [edit]
