10 Dog Breeds That Resemble Wolves in Looks and Spirit

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

Wolfdog
Ivan Babydov/Pexels

Dogs have been bred for thousands of years, and while their appearance and personalities vary, several breeds strongly resemble their wild ancestors: wolves. Some of these dogs were even intentionally bred to echo wolves, while others have evolved to look strikingly similar. These breeds possess the majestic, wild appearance of wolves and often exhibit spirited, independent traits that make them both fascinating and lovable companions. Let’s look at ten dog breeds that resemble wolves in looks and spirit.

1. Siberian Husky

purebred Siberian Husky on grass
Julissa Helmuth/Pexels

The Siberian Husky is one of the most recognized breeds resembling wolves, with its thick double coat, erect ears, and stunning blue or multi-colored eyes. Originally bred in Siberia as sled dogs, Huskies have a strong work ethic and require regular exercise, often demanding one to two hours of activity each day. Their playful, energetic nature makes them a great fit for active families or owners, though they may not be suitable for those with limited time for outdoor adventures. Huskies’ pack mentality also means they may not enjoy being left alone for long periods.

2. Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamute standing on snow
MOHANN/Pixabay

The Alaskan Malamute, a large and powerful breed, shares many physical traits with the wolf. Historically used as a sled dog in the Arctic, Malamutes are known for their strength and endurance, capable of pulling heavy loads over long distances. With their thick double coats and striking facial markings, they look the part of a wild creature. However, their temperament is far more gentle, making them loyal, affectionate, and great companions for experienced pet owners. Malamutes are energetic and need plenty of exercise but should be kept cool in warmer months to avoid overheating.

3. Alaskan Klee Kai

dog with blue eyes
Davidahuas/Reddit

The Alaskan Klee Kai, often called the “Mini Husky,” shares the same wolf-like features as its larger relatives but in a more compact form. These dogs, weighing around 25 pounds, were bred from Alaskan Huskies, Siberian Huskies, and smaller breeds like the Schipperke and American Eskimo. Their alert, curious nature, and striking markings make them look like miniature versions of the Husky. While they are friendly and highly trainable, they can be wary of strangers, requiring early socialization to ensure they develop into well-rounded pets.

4. Czechoslovakian Wolfdog

Czechoslovakian Wolfdog resting on green grass
Alessandro Bonfiglio/Pexels

The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog is a direct product of breeding between German Shepherds and Carpathian wolves. Originally bred for military purposes, these dogs combine the intelligence and strength of their parent breeds, making them versatile and highly trainable. Their appearance is unmistakably wolf-like, with long, coarse fur and a strong, athletic build. However, their independent nature and high energy levels make them best suited for active and experienced pet owners who can provide ample physical and mental stimulation.

5. Saarloos Wolfdog

SarloosWolfdog
Arawolf/Pixabay

The Saarloos Wolfdog is another breed with direct wolf ancestry, originating from a German Shepherd and European wolf mix. Known for their loyalty and intelligence, these dogs require consistent training and socialization from an early age. While they are affectionate, they can also be independent and sometimes aloof, exhibiting behavior reminiscent of their wild ancestors. Their wolf-like appearance is enhanced by their strong, athletic frame and thick, dense coat, which makes them well-suited to colder climates. These dogs thrive in homes with active owners who can provide the stimulation they need.

6. Utonagan

Utonagan looking fearce
chickenbunny/Pexels

The Utonagan is a newer breed created by crossing Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and German Shepherds, resulting in a dog that closely resembles a wolf both in appearance and temperament. Utonagans are known for their intelligence and strong, independent nature. They are energetic and thrive on mental and physical challenges, so interactive play and stimulating activities are essential. Though affectionate with their families, they are also quite vocal, often barking or howling. Due to their hunting instincts, early training is key to ensure they remain well-behaved.

7. Northern Inuit Dog

Northern Inuit Dog
DejaVu Designs/Freepik

The Northern Inuit Dog, originally developed in the UK, was bred to resemble wolves. Similar to the Utonagan, the Northern Inuit is a mix of Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and German Shepherds. This breed is known for its affectionate and loyal nature, making them excellent family pets. Despite their wolf-like appearance, Northern Inuits are often calm and gentle, especially with children. However, they can be prone to separation anxiety, and it’s important to provide them with ample exercise and attention to prevent destructive behaviors.

8. Tamaskan Dog 

Tamaskan
DavidReed/Pixabay

The Tamaskan Dog is a newer breed that has quickly gained popularity due to its striking wolf-like appearance and friendly nature. A mix of Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and other breeds, Tamaskans are known for their sociable, outgoing personalities. While they enjoy physical activities like hiking and running, they are also content to relax indoors with their family. This breed’s gentle temperament makes them an ideal choice for households with other pets or children. Despite their wolf-like look, Tamaskans are not wild at heart and are known for being affectionate and loyal companions.

9. Finnish Lapphund

Finnish Lapphund on a snowy forest path
Sidde/Pexels

Though the Finnish Lapphund was originally used for herding reindeer in Lapland, its wolf-like features make it an appealing choice for those looking for a dog with a wild appearance. With a thick, weather-resistant coat and pointed ears, the Finnish Lapphund shares several physical traits with wolves. They are highly affectionate and make great family dogs, especially in households with children. However, they are also known for their independent streak, so early training and socialization are important. Their high energy levels and love for the outdoors make them a great fit for active families.

10. Samoyed

A white samoyed standing in water
leah/Pixabay

The Samoyed is another breed with striking wolf-like features, particularly its thick white coat, which helps it endure cold climates. Originally bred by Siberian nomads, the Samoyed was used for herding reindeer and pulling sleds. Despite their wild look, Samoyeds are known for their affectionate and gentle nature, making them excellent companions for families. They are particularly good with children and have a playful, friendly temperament. Samoyeds are also quite social and enjoy spending time with their owners, requiring regular exercise and grooming to maintain their iconic fluffy coats.

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