Lupine Definition

Commonly known as wolfdogs, lupines are dogs that have some wolf blood in them. They may be the product of a full-blooded wolf and a dog, or the offspring of a dog and a lupine.

  1. Hybrid vs. Mix

    • Because dogs are considered a variant of the gray wolf, lupines are not true hybrids but mixed-breed animals, the same as if you crossed a beagle and a poodle.

    Common Crosses

    • Wolves are usually crossed with dogs that have a wolf-like appearance, such as Siberian huskies, German shepherds or Alaskan malamutes.

    High Content

    • A high-content lupine is one that has a high percentage of wolf DNA.

    Temperament

    • Wolves are known to be shy, timid creatures, and many lupine temperaments reflect this. Wolves, and the breeds with which they are commonly crossed, do have a strong need to pursue prey, and they are pack animals. They need to be taught their place in the family and carefully supervised around children and other animals.

    Considerations

    • In many places it's illegal to own a lupine; in some areas, owners are required to purchase a permit. Lupines, like their wolf relatives, like to howl. They require plenty of room to run around, and a tall fence to keep them contained. Pups need to be socialized to people early.