Saarloos Wolfhond
Saarloosův vlčák
Key facts
| FCI group | 1. Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs (except Swiss Cattle Dogs) |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | Netherlands |
| Category | Large |
| Height at withers | 60–75 cm |
Recognition features
- Strongly built dog with a wolf-like frame and long limbs
- Winter and summer coats differ greatly; heavy ruff in winter
- Reserved with strangers, independent, with a wolf-like avoidance of unknown situations
Purpose
A Dutch companion with a wolf-like look and manner, created by crossing a German Shepherd with a she-wolf.
History
Leendert Saarloos (1884–1969) wanted to restore natural qualities to the German Shepherd. In 1932 he mated a German Shepherd male with a she-wolf of the Siberian branch of the European wolf, and breeding back gave a base of animals with a quarter wolf blood. The breed was not created for a particular use.
Coat
Dense coat forming a distinct ruff; summer and winter coats differ greatly; wolf-grey (light to dark black-tipped game colours) or brown-tipped game colour; typical wolf markings are light creamy white to white.
Similar breeds
- Czechoslovakian Wolfdog · Compare
- German Shepherd · Compare
- White Swiss Shepherd Dog · Compare
- South Russian Shepherd Dog · Compare
Learn to recognise this breed and many more
In the Dogtice quiz you practise breeds on photos and see the differences between look-alike breeds.
The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard. Report a photo or rights.