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Saarloos Wolfdog

Loved by 72% of pet parents

Striking and athletic, the Saarloos Wolfdog combines wolf-like looks with a loyal, reserved nature. Best suited for experienced owners who appreciate independent, sensitive companions.

Breed Characteristics

Friendliness

Energy

Trainability

Playfulness

Adaptability

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.

HEIGHT

65–75 cm (male)

60–70 cm (female)

WEIGHT

36–41 kg (male)

30–36 kg (female)

LIFE EXPECTANCY

10–12 years

Saarloos Wolfdog: Breed snapshot

Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance

Key Breed Characteristics

Kingdom

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Class

Mammalia

Order

Carnivora

Family

Canidae

Genus

Canis

Species

Canis lupus familiaris

Diet

Omnivore

"A Saarloos Wolfdog isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."

Temperament & personality

Understanding Saarloos Wolfdog's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.

Personality Overview

The Saarloos Wolfdog is typically reserved, loyal, and independent, often forming strong bonds with family while remaining wary of strangers. They are not naturally aggressive and tend to be sensitive.

Key Personality Traits

Friendliness

Wary of strangers, bonds closely with family

Intelligence

Quick learner, responds well to training

Energy Level

Very active, needs regular physical activity

Playfulness

Enjoys play but not overly exuberant

Adaptability

Struggles with new environments and changes

Strengths

Loyal to primary family members
High physical endurance and stamina
Rarely shows aggression toward people
Strong natural alertness and awareness
Minimal doggy odor and clean habits

Challenges

Prone to strong prey drive instincts
Difficult to train for novice owners
Needs extensive daily exercise and space
Tends to be aloof with strangers
Can develop separation anxiety if left alone

Protect your Saarloos Wolfdog

Saarloos Wolfdog are active and energetic, but they can develop hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.

Insure your pet

Intelligence & exercise needs

Saarloos Wolfdogs are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.

🧠 Intelligence & training

Trainability

Learns with consistency

Overall rating

This breed is intelligent but has a strong independent streak, which can make training challenging. Consistent, patient training and early socialization are important for effective learning and cooperation.

Trainable Tasks:

Recall training

Leash walking manners

Scent tracking exercises

Search and rescue basics

Boundary training

Socialization with strangers

🏃 Exercise & energy levels

Daily Exercise

90–120 minutes daily

recommended per day

Saarloos Wolfdogs have high energy levels and need significant daily exercise, including long walks and mental stimulation. They thrive with activities that engage both their minds and bodies.

Recommended Activities:

Long-distance hiking

Canicross running

Tracking scent trails

Agility obstacle courses

Off-leash exploration

Interactive scent games

Is this breed right for you?

Saarloos Wolfdogs are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Saarloos Wolfdog would fit well in your home.