What Are the Differences Between Dogs and Wolves?

According to National Geographic Magazine, wolves and dogs are the same species and have nearly identical DNA. According to Psychology Today, dogs are simply a domesticated form of wolves, chosen by humans in the path for their lack of aggression. Dogs and wolves share many characteristics. However, dogs and wolves are not the same. While most dogs can be domesticated with little problems, wolves always remain a bit wild, even in captivity. When you start to look closely, there are actually many differences between the two species.

  1. Characteristics

    • Wolves have much stronger teeth than dogs. Dogs are made to chew smaller foods, while wolves can break bones and tear flesh. Wolves and dogs run differently. Dogs run with a loping, almost casual gait. Wolves run in a springing motion, with force from the hind legs propelling them forward. Wolves shed their fur once a year to grow in a winter coat. Dogs shed a little fur throughout the year. Wolves are much fiercer than dogs. Wolves do not bark like a dog. They typically howl for communication and are often silent for extended periods, according to a 2010 documentary by PBS' "Nova" program.

    Appearance

    • Even though wolves and dogs have similar DNA, the outward appearance of wolves and dogs is markedly different. A wolf's skeleton is higher and has a more arched spine. The wolf's legs are much longer, and its head sits at a sharper angle on the spine than a dog's head. Dogs have much longer tailbones than wolves. Wolves have shaggier fur and always have pointed ears. A wolf's fur is designed to help it blend with the surroundings and survive harsh conditions. A dog's fur is mainly used for warmth. Humans have changed the appearance of a dog's fur through extensive breeding.

    Maturity and Socialization

    • Dogs and wolves act differently. According to National Geographic, wolves have a strong pack mentality. There is only one alpha wolf, and the alpha wolf will kill any challengers. Wolves have a strong sense of government, and every wolf in the pack has its place. Dogs have a more juvenile attitude at any age, possibly because ancient humans looked for playfulness and a lack of aggression in early dogs, according to Psychology Today. Dogs are sensitive to human gestures and emotions as well as human social cues.

    Instincts

    • Domesticated dogs can breed two or three times a year. Wolves typically breed only once a year. A wolf has a strong drive to mate and procreate throughout life. Dogs try to mate, but they can loose interest in the right conditions, according to the ACT Companion Dog Club. Wolves have a much stronger instinct to survive than dogs, according to the ACT Companion Dog Club, and are able to sense danger better than dogs. Wolves and dogs are territorial, but wolves will defend their territory to the death, while most dogs will only growl or bark at intruders.