Muscle Structure of a Wolf

Wolves are canines, and the basic ancestor of all dog breeds known today. As such their muscular system is similar to a dog's musculature. The muscles in the wolf's body can be broken down categorically by its structure and movement.

  1. Smooth

    • Smooth muscles are found in internal organs. These muscles are involuntary, they move without the effort of conscious thought. These muscles are essential to body function, and are necessary for the digestive, respiratory and circulatory system to function properly.

    Skeletal

    • These muscles are voluntary, they move by nervous control and conscious thought. They connect to bone and allow the animal to move about as it needs or wants to. The skeletal muscular structure of the wolf is built for endurance rather than speed.

    Cardiac

    • Cardiac muscles are similar in density and texture to skeletal muscles, but are controlled involuntarily. These muscles attach to, surround and make up the heart. They control the heart's ability to beat and pump blood.

    Size

    • In wolves, the skeletal muscles account for about half the animal's weight. The rest of the weight is made up of internal organs, bone structure, soft tissues and waste.

    Purpose

    • The muscular structure of the wolf is built for survival. Different muscle groups equip the wolf to stalk prey, run, jump and fight.