How to Tell Wolf Tracks From Dog Tracks

Both wolves and dogs are part of the same animal genus, and because they are so closely related, they can interbreed across species, which was not thought possible in higher mammals. Because of the closeness, their tracks look similar. When trying to determine the species, look at the size of the paw print, the intergroup distance, where the hind print falls in relation to the front paw and the overall appearance of the entire animal path.

Things You'll Need

Ruler

Instructions

- 1
  Determine if both dogs and wolves use the area. In remote areas, such as the middle of the wood far away from civilization, you have a greater chance of finding a wolf print than a dog print. Near civilization, you might find more dog prints.
- 2
  Measure the size of the print. If it is smaller than 4 inches, then it is likely a dog or coyote. Wolf prints measure larger than 4 inches and can measure up to 6 inches. If you do not have a ruler, place your hand over the print. If the print is nearly the same length, it could be a wolf, but some dog breeds leave large prints.
- 3
  Measure the intergroup distance of the prints. To measure the intergroup distance, find a grouping of two paw prints and measure from the front of the furthest forward print to the rear of the furthest back print in the next grouping of paw prints. Wolves measure greater than 26 inches. The intergroup distance of a dog varies, but if it is under 26 inches, then it is likely a dog.
- 4
  Look to see if the hind prints fall directly in line with with the front print --- the front print measures slightly smaller. Because a wolf has a narrower chest than a dog, its front and hind prints line up. A dog leaves front prints that do not align.
- 5
  Examine the overall trail. Dogs tend to meander and wolves follow a straight line.
- 6
  Add up all your data points. Because the prints looks so similar, you may need a positive determination on several points to confirm the species.