So You Want a Wolfdog?

All pets are a major responsibility. Wolfdogs more so than most. Before you even consider bringing a wolfdog into your home, there are some critical things you need to understand.

The Reality of Wolfdog Ownership

To illustrate: we once had a recuperating wolfdog named Tanner. Despite being a low-content wolfdog, he repeatedly escaped from a crate, eventually chewed a massive chunk out of a solid wood door, and destroyed a baby gate in under 15 minutes. This is not unusual behavior for a wolfdog.

There are very few placement options if ownership becomes untenable. Most shelters will euthanize a wolfdog immediately. Sanctuaries are almost always at capacity. You need extensive prior knowledge, a reliable backup care plan, and proper containment — we're talking 8-foot fences with lean-ins and dig guards at minimum.

Recommended Reading

Before making any decisions, we strongly recommend these books:

• Living with Wolfdogs by Nicole Wilde — wolfdog-specific care guide
• Wolfdogs A-Z by Nicole Wilde — comprehensive wolfdog behavior reference
• Culture Clash by Jean Donaldson — perspective on dog behavior
• The Other End of the Leash by Patricia McConnell — human-animal interaction

Consider Adopting an Adult

If after thorough research you decide wolfdog ownership is right for you, we encourage pursuing adult rescues rather than puppies. Past behavior provides better predictability of temperament and needs. While Refuge Ridge doesn't adopt out wolfdogs, we suggest contacting local sanctuaries about available animals.