Wolamute Dog Breed

The Wolamute, as a Timber Wolf-Malamute cross, is not a member of any official breed category--though this crossbreed has physical and behavioral traits of dogs in the Working group. Wolamutes are believed to be one of the oldest known hybrid breeds in existence, and have been used as working dogs in arctic and sub-arctic regions for thousands of years; as such, these dogs are best for people living in colder climates, though they can adapt to warmer weather. Wolamutes are best suited for sled-pulling and other cold-weather activities, though they can make good pets (particularly if they inherit more traits from their domesticated Malamute parents).

A few breed facts: Wolamutes are extremely large-sized (height at the shoulders averages 28 inches, and weight averages 150 pounds), with medium-length, thick fur that normally has the classic "wolf" colors. Here are some advantages and drawbacks to owning this large crossbreed:

PROS:

• Excellent work ethic
• Intelligent
• Loyal and protective
• Easily trained
• Little grooming required
• Can be affectionate and playful
• Low barking tendency
• Good health

CONS:

• Temperament often difficult to predict
• Constant socialization with humans and other animals is a must
• Can be standoffish and defensive
• Frequent exercise required
• Extremely high prey drive; will chase and harm smaller pets
• Large outdoor space needed
• Will turn destructive if bored or restless
• Not suited for first-time owners
• Thorough research recommended before obtaining/purchasing

Few people have been able to truly domesticate a purebred wolf--but owning a Wolamute is likely the next best thing. As is their breeding, these large dogs can be pretty primitive in both looks and behavior; much of their demeanor depends on how much of each of their Malamute and Timber Wolf parents' traits they've inherited. A majority of available Wolamute information is from owners of dogs that inherit more dog characteristics than wolf, as the more wolf-like animals are simply too unpredictable.

The most important factor in determining a Wolamute's success as a domesticated animal is socialization--and specifically, when in the animal's life it is introduced into a domestic environment. Wolamutes that are brought into a home as pups, and are raised around humans and other pets, are typically affectionate, playful, and very loyal. These dogs are extremely intelligent, and if raised in a home are extremely teachable. Keep in mind, though, that Wolamutes are part wolf, and still have semi-feral instincts, which can lead to shyness, defensive behavior, and aggression. Canine experts highly recommend that potential Wolamute owners thoroughly research the dog's breeding and behavioral history before bringing one home.

The experts also agree that Wolamute owners will need a large (fenced!) outdoor area in which the animal can roam. Wolamutes are active, strong, and have incredible stamina, so they will need constant exercise.

Each individual Wolamute can display various behavioral traits of both the domesticated Malamute and the wild Timber Wolf; thus the animal's temperament can vary widely depending on how much of each parent's demeanor is inherited. Regardless of a Wolamute's behavior, if raised from puppyhood these crossbreeds are typically affectionate, even-tempered, and playful. They will, however, need a great deal of attention, as they will turn destructive if left alone for long periods.

They will also require a great deal of socialization with children and other pets. Wolamutes can be very territorial (part of their wolf instinct), and may be dangerous around small children; in regards to other pets, they might be extremely protective with their food and living space.

If a Wolamute is domesticated from a young age, it will typically respond well to training--provided the teacher uses firm, consistent training methods. But Wolamutes don't make very good watchdogs, as their wolf instincts normally mean they are very standoffish towards strangers, and they usually won't warn owners about a intruder's presence.

Overall, Wolamutes are considered quite healthy and hardy. Still, these hybrids can be subject to some health problems, especially structural issues like hip and/or elbow dysplasia, arthritis, and bone cancer.