Moisture Missile wrote:
Don't take this the wrong way Nog, I'm seriously asking because I want to learn about them - but why mess with wolf anything? What is the advantages besides the novelty factor?
They are not a "
novelty" MM. they require an
IMMENSE amount of work. Basic requirements are a lot of room, a lot of patience, a lot of love, and a lot of attention.
Don't believe anyone looking for a "novelty" item could stand up to all those tasks.
They are
THE most intelligent "
Dogs' you will ever encounter. Almost
Frighteningly so. In the doggie world, they are True Super Einsteins!
That comes with it's own baggage. They learn incredibly quickly, and as Fishaholic suggested, with patience and careful training, they can be molded into almost any type of dog you desire. One of mine was a Pheasant Champion, actually taking the field trials in Alberta two consecutive years! NOT what one would expect from a Wolf Hybrid!
I train mine to be "
People Friendly" and start the pups out on that same program. So when someone gets a new puppy from us, it starts off with the right mindset. Of course we carefully screen all those who apply, it takes a certain type of person to nurture these pups into what they should be.
Mine are also trained as Protection Animals. If we invite you into the pack, they will probably lick you to death. If we haven't and you are a stranger, it is a damn good idea to stay out of their reach! I am away a LOT, and do so comfortable in mind while away. Although my Missuz can shoot, it is extremely doubtful any intruder would be subjected to that. Have to get through our Buddies to do so, and that would indeed be a feat!
The only downside with the intelligence is they will sometimes balk at commands. They
KNOW what
you want, but decide they will do it if and when
they want to. Independent is the word. This takes time and reinforcement to overcome. And will require gentle reinforcement for much of their lives if they display that.
Besides the intelligence, they are downright
GREAT looking animals! Loyal to the extreme, they very much BOND with their people, considering them "equals" Thus it is important to establish and maintain dominance from an early age. That must be done gently, you do not want to break their spirit.
I lead a vigorous outdoor-oriented life. And I am the most comfortable out there with one of my Companions by my side. Much more
Buddies than
pets per-see. A Buddy who loves me, is good company, sharp as a whip, not afraid of anything in the bush, and big enough to help me if I get into a situation where that might be required.
Been raising Wolf Hybrids for over 30 years now. Can't possibly imagine being without one, or going back to any standard bred dog.
Hope that helps with the understanding...
Cheers,
Matt