Wolf packs typically consist of related individuals, including a breeding pair and their offspring. When a wolf reaches maturity, it may disperse and form its own pack, or it may remain in its natal pack and help to raise the next generation of pups.
In rare cases, a wolf may join a new pack if it is accepted by the pack's alpha male and alpha female. This is most likely to happen if the wolf is a young, healthy individual that is able to contribute to the pack's success. The wolf may also be accepted if it is related to the pack's alpha pair.