Wolves are dog breeds too, right? Well, not exactly. Even though it’s believed that domesticated dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are descendants of the gray wolf (Canis lupus), wolves are their own breed. And they don’t look like any other dog out there! However, some dog breeds come close to looking like wolves. This blog post will list the top dog breeds that look most similar to a wolf. These dogs may be your best bet if you’re looking for a more independent dog with a strong personality.

Are you interested in a specific breed that looks like a wolf? Then use the table of contents below to jump to the most relevant section. And you can always go back by clicking on the black arrow in the right bottom corner of the page. Also, please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. For more details, check the Disclosure section at the bottom of the page. 

American Alsatian

The American Alsatian, also known as the German shepherd dog in America, is bigger and leaner than a German shepherd, weighing around 85 to 110 pounds. The breed is a cross between the German Shepherd and the Alaskan malamute. The wolflike appearance of these dogs is complemented by their cool amber eyes.

Alaskan Malamute

This is another dog that looks like a wolf. They are big and fluffy, and Alaskans will be able to ride them in a sled. But if you do not have one, they will be happy to make you proud by running, hiking, and exploring the world. Despite their double coat, these wolf dogs are such pleasant and amusing pets that you will quickly forgive them for the additional housework.

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Caucasian Shepherd

The Caucasian Shepherd is a Russian dog breed that has the name “Russian Bear Dog.” These fluffy dogs are a very hairy wolflike dog breed, and much of it is due to their long, shaggy coat. These are some of the greatest guard dogs due to their resilience to harsh cold mountain weather. These dogs are bred to withstand some of the most rigorous winter temperatures. They’re utilized on farms and do best in cooler temperatures. Caucasian Shepherds require a lot of space to explore, and males can be pushy and protective. These pups are not for first-time dog owners and will need strong leadership throughout puppyhood.

Czechoslovakian Wolfdog

The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog is a wolflike dog breed. He is also known as the Czechoslovakian Vlack, developed in the 1950s as a Czech military experiment to breed a more aggressive alternative to its previous hybrid wolf/dingo bloodline named Lupo Dogi. He was created to be a bloodthirsty and vicious combat dog during the Cold War. The outcome was quite different, and while he is watchful and suspicious of strangers, he is more cuddly and loving than his domesticated parent.

 Canadian Eskimo Dog

There are fewer than 300 Canadian Eskimo Dogs left on earth, making them one of the rarest dog breeds in the world.

It’s a medium-sized dog that weighs about 100 pounds when not utilized as a working dog. The dog has yellow eyes, giving him an even more wolflike appearance than the Alaskan malamute, a larger breed weighing over 100 pounds when not in use.

Finnish Lapphund

The Finnish Lapphund is a Nordic dog breed with a fluffy outer appearance and a Spitz-like face. He also resembles a wolf, and his head and coat are pretty similar, albeit in a smaller size. His startle reflex is strong, as it was in his wild days. So be careful when rousing him; he may jump and snap. He’s quick and nimble, which makes him a fantastic agility course participant. This is a fantastic method to demonstrate how brilliant and obedient your dog is. Finnish Lapphunds are loving with their family but cautious of strangers. He finds the company of his family more pleasant than being the center of attention.

 German Shepherd

A natural hero, the German Shepherd, is both intelligent and loyal. German Shepherds like having a goal in life. They’re up to anything when it comes to overcoming any challenge. This popular dog breed resembles a wolf but acts like the most loyal friend you’ll ever have. Their vigilant nature will blend in well with families, and they’re excellent dogs for older kids. They will be the exuberant canine reminding you why you adore dogs if enough is going on. If there isn’t much for them to do, they will quickly turn to mischief, so make sure you have lots of toys and activities for them to do.

Kugsha

We don’t know much about the Kugsha’s background, but we do know it descends from the Alaskan malamute and may have been crossbred with wolves. If this is true, then Kugsha’s development occurred many decades ago. Thus it isn’t a wolf hybrid.

It’s a medium-sized breed that resembles the malamute in terms of size. Still, they are considerably more independent and difficult to train. They aren’t the greatest match for novices. Kugshas are also independent and prefer to be left alone, so if you want one in your house, make sure you can devote enough time to it.

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Northern Inuit

The Northern Inuit Dogs were a project to create a wolflike breed with the personality of a dog. It’s thought this dog came from the UK in the 1980s, when Malamutes, Siberian huskies, and German Shepherds were mated. The Stark family, a prominent House in the Game of Thrones series, comes across a litter of “wolf puppies,” which are actually Northern Inuit dogs.

These are large, strong dogs. They are energetic and have a lot of personality, sharing many characteristics with the husky. These dogs are also wonderful protective buddies for youngsters.

Saarloos Wolfdog

The Saarloos Wolfdog is a cross between an African wild dog and a wolf. Breeders and wolf experts believe that the facial expressions of this breed are almost identical to those of a wild wolf. He was bred in the 1930s by a Dutch breeder, and he is also a composite of European wolves and German Shepherds.

The Saarloos Wolfdog is friendly with his humans and likes to sit at your feet in the evening – making him perfect for those who do not like lapdogs. Again, he is not for the first time owner, and he requires several hours of intense exercise to keep his body and mind happy.

Samoyeds

Samoyed dogs, another wolflike pup. They have a beautiful, thick double coat that needs more attention. It’s well worth the time and effort required to groom them. Samoyed puppies will welcome everyone from family members to complete strangers with open arms.

Although they are not suitable for guard dog work, they are vocal in expressing their affection. They are very loving, making them excellent family pets. They are the bright type with a mind of their own, and if left alone too much, they may begin to rearrange the backyard.

Shikoku

Shikoku is a Japanese dog breed named the Kochi Ken or Japanese Wolfdog. His head resembles that of a wolf’s, and he used to hunt wild boar in Japan’s mountainous regions.

Its face mask patterns are similar to the Arctic sled dogs, and his coat is likewise. The major distinctions between him and other Siberian Huskies are his curly Akita-like tail and smaller pointed ears. He is now commonly found in family homes, patrolling the premises while guarding the family. He is eager and joyful to snuggle down at night after a hard day’s work defending his family.

Siberian Huskies  

Siberian Huskies are energetic, full of life, and enjoy having a purpose of accomplishing. It’s not unusual, given that they were once reliable sleigh dogs. So, before adopting a Husky, make sure you have a good strategy in place for daily walks, fun games, and mental challenges to keep them occupied.

The beautiful looks of Siberian Huskies have made them one of the most recognized canines on earth. Their wolf ancestry can be traced in their brilliant eyes, tiny frames, and erect ears. Still, their cheerful and friendly nature makes it easy for them to make friends with everyone. 

Swedish Vallhund

The size of a Corgi, yet the appearance of a wolf, this dog has it all. With a wonderful personality to go with their dual looks, you’ll get the best of both worlds. The Swedish Vallhund’s herding heritage makes them a bright dog always on the lookout, announcing visitors well ahead of time. They’re also wolflike wolf dogs in search of hugs wherever they may be found.

Tamaskan

The tamaskan was created when malamutes and huskies mixed. The major worldwide breed registries won’t recognize this breed, but a few breed clubs have formed around these wolf-life canines.

Tamaskans are a good alternative for huskies regarding disposition and skill. Still, they require the same amount of experience and dedication as their northern relative. Suppose you have the skills and desire to put in the effort with training and exercise. In that case, tamaskans can make excellent family pets.

Credits: thanks for the cover photo to Canva.

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