How to Train Wolf Hybrids

Canis lupus, or the wolf, is the largest of canine breed in the wild. These fierce predators live and hunt in a pack that contains a complicated social system, dominated by a single wolf known as the alpha. Dogs that are cross-bred with wolves often keep this pack instinct, as well as the more dangerous instincts of hunting and biting. Owning a wolf hybrid is an extremely large responsibility. The only way you will be able to train this hybrid is to establish yourself as the pack's alpha.

Things You'll Need

  • Leash
  • Snacks
  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Begin training wolf hybrids as early as two weeks old. Training must begin at an early age, before wolf instincts begin to show themselves.

    • 2

      Socialize your hybrid with other animals, adults and children, as soon as training begins. If possible, train two hybrids together, or a hybrid with another large dog breed. Hybrids need to get used to loud noises, changing situations and other variations in the world around them, or the hybrid will become skittish and dangerous, as it gets older.

    • 3

      Take your hybrid on a pack walk daily, to show your dominance as alpha. Keep the hybrid on a short leash and make it heel or walk behind you as you stroll, so that it understands that you are in charge. When the hybrid sees you as alpha, it will respect your authority and instructions more quickly.

    • 4

      Keep a small snack for yourself near the hybrid's dish. Always eat before you feed your hybrid. In the pack, the alpha always eats first; make sure it sees you eating before it is allowed to eat. When you put its food on the floor, the hybrid must wait until you tell it to eat. If the hybrid tries to bolt for the food, block it with your body and tell it to "wait" in a strong, stern voice.

    • 5

      Give commands like "sit" or "stay" in a strong voice. Reward the hybrid for following directions with a small treat and positive praise; do not reward it or let it play with toys if it does not follow instructions. This method of giving and withholding reinforcement will teach the hybrid that it must follow your commands.

    • 6

      Decide where and when your dog is allowed to go into the house. The most comfortable place is reserved for the alpha; if you want to let the hybrid sit with you on the couch or the bed, you must sit first and then invite it to sit. You should also lead the way through doorways and up or down stairs, so that it knows that you decide where it goes.

    • 7

      Teach your hybrid from a young age not to nip or mouth at humans or other dogs. As soon as it tries to, give it a stern "no" and withhold all positive reinforcement and affection; the hybrid will gradually understand that this behavior is bad. If you do not train the hybrid not to mouth or nip at a young age, it may think this is okay to bite as it gets older.