27 Dog Breeds That Closely Resemble Wolves in Looks and Temperament

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By Andrea Wright

Explore the world of dog breeds that bear a striking resemblance to wolves, both in appearance and spirit. These breeds captivate with their wild allure and loyal nature.

Alaskan Malamute

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With a powerful build and majestic presence, the Alaskan Malamute is a true embodiment of the wild north. Known for its strength and endurance, this breed is often used in sledding.

Their thick, plush coats and striking facial masks give them an unmistakable wolf-like appearance. Friendly and affectionate, they thrive in active households.

Their independent spirit can make training a challenge, but with patience, they become devoted companions. Originating from Alaska, they were originally bred by the Inuit people for hauling heavy freight.

Siberian Husky

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The Siberian Husky, with its striking blue or multicolored eyes, is a captivating breed. Known for its energetic and playful nature, they require plenty of exercise.

Their wolf-like appearance is enhanced by their thick double coat and distinctive facial markings. Friendly and outgoing, they are known for their mischievous antics.

Bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia for sled-pulling, they have a rich history of endurance. Their howling sounds can be reminiscent of their wild ancestors.

Tamaskan

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The Tamaskan is a relatively new breed, designed to look like a wolf while being a family-friendly companion. Their striking resemblance to wolves is uncanny with their long muzzles and bushy tails.

Despite their wild looks, they are known for being gentle and sociable. They make great family pets due to their friendly disposition and intelligence.

Originating from Finland, they are a mix of sled dogs and other Northern breeds, carefully bred to maintain their wolf-like appearance. Their loyalty and warmth are unmatched.

Northern Inuit Dog

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Originally bred to resemble wolves, the Northern Inuit Dog is a strikingly beautiful breed. Their appearance has made them popular for film and television roles.

They are known for their affectionate and loyal nature, making them excellent family pets. However, they require early socialization due to their independent streak.

Developed in the United Kingdom, they are a mix of several breeds, including the Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute. Their playful nature makes them wonderful companions.

Utonagan

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The Utonagan is a captivating breed with an appearance reminiscent of a wolf. They were bred to combine the appearance of a wolf with the temperament of a dog.

Known for their friendly and gentle nature, they are excellent companions for families. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, though they require consistent training.

Developed in the UK, they are a blend of several dog breeds. Their stunning looks and kind demeanor make them a favorite among those seeking a wolf-like companion.

Czechoslovakian Wolfdog

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The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog is a breed born from a unique experiment involving German Shepherds and Carpathian wolves. Their appearance is undeniably wolf-like.

Known for their intelligence and courage, they excel in roles such as search and rescue. Their loyalty to their handlers is profound and unwavering.

Bred in Czechoslovakia for military purposes, they possess a combination of wild and domestic traits. Their striking looks and brave nature make them a fascinating companion.

Saarloos Wolfdog

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The Saarloos Wolfdog boasts a natural and wild appearance, due in part to its wolf ancestry. This breed is known for its strong and independent character.

They form deep bonds with their families but require early socialization to thrive. Their wolf-like howls are both captivating and haunting.

Created by Leendert Saarloos in the Netherlands, they are a mix of German Shepherds and European wolves. Their unique blend of domestic and wild traits makes them a remarkable breed.

Canadian Eskimo Dog

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Renowned for its strength and resilience, the Canadian Eskimo Dog is a true testament to the Arctic wilderness. This breed thrives in frigid environments.

Their thick coats and powerful build are reminiscent of their wild ancestors. Known for their loyalty and courage, they are reliable working dogs.

One of North America’s oldest and rarest breeds, they have been used by Inuit people for centuries. Their history and fortitude make them a breed of both beauty and purpose.

Greenland Dog

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The Greenland Dog is a breed with a rich history intertwined with Inuit culture. Their robust build and thick fur make them well-suited for polar climates.

Known for their hardworking nature, they have been used for sled pulling for generations. Their wolf-like howl adds to their captivating aura.

Originating from Greenland, they are one of the oldest sled dog breeds. Their loyalty and endurance make them indispensable to those who venture into harsh terrains.

Samoyed

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The Samoyed, often known for its perpetual smile, is a breed that exudes warmth and joy. Despite its fluffy appearance, its strength is well-suited for life in cold climates.

Their playful nature and sociability make them delightful family pets. Known for their gentle demeanor, they are wonderful with children.

Originating from Siberia, they were used by the Samoyedic people for herding reindeer and pulling sleds. Their cheerful disposition and stunning appearance make them a beloved breed worldwide.

German Shepherd

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The German Shepherd is a breed known for its intelligence and versatility. Their strong, muscular build and wolf-like features make them an imposing figure.

They excel in roles such as police and military work due to their trainability and loyalty. Their protective nature makes them excellent guard dogs.

Originating from Germany in the late 19th century, they are one of the most popular breeds globally. Their combination of strength and intelligence makes them exceptional companions.

Shikoku

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The Shikoku, a native of Japan, is a breed known for its agility and keen senses. With its fox-like face and curled tail, it bears a striking resemblance to wolves.

They are known for their spirited and alert nature, making them excellent hunters. Their loyalty to their owners is unmatched.

Bred for hunting in the mountainous regions of Shikoku Island, they are agile and intelligent. Their distinctive appearance and vibrant energy make them a unique companion.

Akita Inu

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The Akita Inu is a breed that exudes dignity and power. Known for their loyalty and courage, they are revered as protectors.

With their thick fur and curled tail, they share many physical traits with wolves. Their independent and strong-willed nature requires experienced handling.

Originating from Japan, they have a noble history as hunting and guard dogs. Their regal appearance and steadfast loyalty make them a cherished breed in their homeland.

Alaskan Klee Kai

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The Alaskan Klee Kai is a small breed with a big personality. Resembling a miniature Husky, they have a striking, wolf-like appearance.

Known for their alertness and energy, they are perfect for active families. Their intelligence and curiosity make them quick learners.

Bred in the United States as a companion dog, they retain the sled dog spirit. Their compact size and lively nature make them a delightful addition to any household.

Finnish Lapphund

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The Finnish Lapphund is a breed known for its friendly and sociable nature. With their thick coats and bushy tails, they have a distinct wolf-like look.

They are excellent herders, having been used by the Sami people for reindeer herding. Their playful and gentle demeanor makes them wonderful family pets.

Originating from Finland, they are well-suited for cold climates. Their affectionate nature and striking appearance make them a beloved breed in Nordic countries.

Swedish Vallhund

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The Swedish Vallhund is a small but sturdy breed with a strong herding instinct. Their wolf-like markings and expressive face give them a unique charm.

Known for their intelligence and agility, they excel in dog sports and herding. Their playful nature makes them wonderful companions.

Originating from Sweden, they have a rich history as working dogs. Their lively spirit and distinctive appearance make them a delightful breed to have around.

Norwegian Elkhound

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The Norwegian Elkhound is a breed with a proud and robust stature. Known for its hunting prowess, it has been used for elk hunting for centuries.

Their thick coat and curled tail give them a wolf-like appearance. They are courageous and loyal, making them excellent watchdogs.

Originating from Norway, they have a rich history and are considered one of the country’s national treasures. Their strength and keen senses make them exceptional hunting companions.

Keeshond

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The Keeshond is a breed known for its friendly nature and striking appearance. With their thick fur and expressive faces, they have a unique and memorable look.

They are known for their affectionate and playful demeanor, making them excellent family pets. Their intelligence and alertness make them quick learners.

Originating from the Netherlands, they have been popular as companion dogs for centuries. Their warm nature and stunning looks are sure to capture hearts.

Kugsha Dog

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The Kugsha Dog, often referred to as the Amerindian Malamute, is a breed with a mysterious and captivating presence. Their wolf-like appearance is striking and elegant.

Known for their strong and independent nature, they require experienced handling. Their loyalty and protective instincts make them excellent guard dogs.

Little is known about their origins, but they are believed to be a cross between various sled dogs. Their enigmatic charm and strength make them a fascinating breed to study.

Shiloh Shepherd

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The Shiloh Shepherd is a breed known for its gentle and calm temperament. Resembling a larger German Shepherd, their size and strength are impressive.

They are known for their intelligence and are often trained in therapy and assistance roles. Their loyalty and protective nature make them excellent family companions.

Developed in the United States, they were bred for their gentle nature and large size. Their combination of strength and kindness makes them a unique and cherished breed.

East Siberian Laika

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The East Siberian Laika is a breed known for its hunting prowess and resilience. With their wolf-like features, they are both stunning and functional.

Their independent and spirited nature requires a firm yet gentle hand. They are loyal to their owners and excel in hunting roles.

Originating from Siberia, they are well-suited for cold and harsh climates. Their strength and intelligence make them exceptional working dogs.

West Siberian Laika

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The West Siberian Laika is a breed with a strong hunting instinct. Their wolf-like appearance is both captivating and functional.

Known for their independence and intelligence, they excel in tracking and hunting. Their loyalty to their owners is unwavering.

Originating from Siberia, they are well-adapted to cold environments. Their combination of strength and agility makes them exceptional hunters and companions.

Yakutian Laika

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The Yakutian Laika is a breed known for its versatility and adaptability. Their wolf-like features and sturdy build are a testament to their origins.

They are known for their friendly and playful nature, making them great companions. Their intelligence and agility make them excellent sled dogs.

Originating from the Yakutia region in Russia, they have been used for herding and sledding. Their resilience and friendly demeanor make them a beloved breed in colder regions.

Jämthund (Swedish Elkhound)

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The Jämthund, or Swedish Elkhound, is a breed known for its strength and hunting ability. Their wolf-like appearance is both striking and functional.

They are known for their courage and determination, making them excellent hunting companions. Their loyalty to their owners is profound.

Originating from Sweden, they have been used for hunting large game like moose. Their robust build and keen senses make them a respected breed in their homeland.

Alabai (Central Asian Shepherd Dog)

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The Alabai, or Central Asian Shepherd Dog, is a breed known for its imposing presence and protective nature. Their wolf-like features are both powerful and commanding.

They are known for their loyalty and courage, making them excellent guard dogs. Their independent nature requires experienced handling.

Originating from Central Asia, they have been used for guarding livestock for centuries. Their strength and protective instincts make them a revered breed in their region.

Karakachan Dog

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The Karakachan Dog is a breed known for its guardian instincts and strength. Their wolf-like appearance is enhanced by their thick coats and strong build.

They are loyal and protective, making them excellent livestock guardians. Their calm and steady nature is a testament to their history.

Originating from Bulgaria, they have been used for protecting livestock in mountainous regions. Their unwavering loyalty and strength make them a treasured breed among shepherds.

Yakut Laika

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The Yakut Laika is a breed known for its adaptability and resilience. With their wolf-like features, they are both striking and functional.

They are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them excellent family pets. Their hunting instincts and intelligence make them versatile workers.

Originating from the Yakutia region in Russia, they have been used historically for sledding and herding. Their spirited nature and loyalty make them a beloved breed in their homeland.