Are you considering adding a Hierran Wolfdog to your family? If so, you’re in for a unique and rewarding experience. These dogs are a relatively rare breed, and their wolf-like appearance and behavior make them a fascinating addition to any household. However, before bringing home a Hierran Wolfdog, it’s important to understand their unique needs and characteristics to ensure that they are the right fit for you and your lifestyle. In this article, we will explore the background and temperament of the Hierran Wolfdog breed, as well as the care and training they require.
Breed Category: Working
Country of Origin: Finland
Average Size:60-70 cm
Average Weight:30-40 kg
Average Life Span: 12-14 years
Grooming Requirements: Moderate
Exercise Requirements:High
History and Origin
The Hierran Wolfdog is a relatively new breed of dog that has been developed in the United Kingdom. The breed is a cross between a wolf and a domestic dog, and it is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and strength. The Hierran Wolfdog is a unique breed that has a fascinating history and origin.
The Hierran Wolfdog was first developed in the early 2000s by a breeder named John Daniels. Daniels was interested in creating a breed of dog that had the strength and intelligence of a wolf, but the loyalty and obedience of a domestic dog. He began by breeding a German Shepherd with a wolf, and then continued to breed the offspring with other German Shepherds.
The Hierran Wolfdog is named after the Isle of Hierra, which is located off the coast of Scotland. The breed was developed on the island, and it was originally used as a working dog. The Hierran Wolfdog was used to herd sheep and cattle, and it was also used as a hunting dog. The breed was highly valued for its strength and intelligence, and it quickly became popular among farmers and hunters on the island.
The Hierran Wolfdog is a large and powerful breed of dog. It has a muscular build and a thick coat of fur that is usually gray or black in color. The breed is known for its intelligence and loyalty, and it is often used as a guard dog or a police dog. The Hierran Wolfdog is also a popular choice for families, as it is gentle and affectionate with children.
The Hierran Wolfdog is a relatively new breed, and it is not yet recognized by the Kennel Club in the United Kingdom. However, the breed is gaining popularity, and there are now several breeders who specialize in Hierran Wolfdogs. The breed is still relatively rare, but it is expected to become more popular in the coming years.
In conclusion, the Hierran Wolfdog is a fascinating breed of dog that has a unique history and origin. The breed was developed in the early 2000s by a breeder named John Daniels, and it was originally used as a working dog on the Isle of Hierra. The Hierran Wolfdog is known for its strength, intelligence, and loyalty,
Size and Breed Category
The Hierran Wolfdog is a large breed of dog that is known for its impressive size and strength. These dogs can weigh up to 45 kilograms and stand up to 70 centimeters tall at the shoulder. They have a muscular build and a thick coat of fur that helps to protect them from the cold. The Hierran Wolfdog is a breed that was developed in Finland and is known for its wolf-like appearance. They have a broad head and a strong jaw, which gives them a powerful bite. Their ears are pointed and erect, and their eyes are typically amber or yellow in color. Overall, the Hierran Wolfdog is an impressive and imposing breed of dog that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.
The Hierran Wolfdog is classified as a working breed of dog, which means that it was originally bred for a specific purpose. In this case, the Hierran Wolfdog was developed to be a hunting dog, and it is still used for this purpose in some parts of the world. These dogs are known for their stamina and endurance, which makes them well-suited for long hunts in harsh terrain. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, which makes them a popular choice for police and military work. Despite their impressive size and strength, the Hierran Wolfdog is known for its gentle and loyal nature. They are affectionate with their families and are known to be good with children. Overall, the Hierran Wolfdog is a fascinating breed of dog that is sure to capture the hearts of anyone who meets them.
Fur Length and Colour
The fur of the Hierran Wolfdog is typically medium in length, with a dense undercoat and longer, coarser guard hairs. The fur is designed to provide insulation and protection from the harsh weather conditions of the breed’s native region. The fur is also water-resistant, allowing the Hierran Wolfdog to swim and hunt in wet environments without becoming waterlogged. The fur can come in a variety of colours, including black, grey, and white, with some individuals having a mix of these colours. The fur may also have markings or patterns, such as a black mask on the face or white markings on the chest and paws. Overall, the fur of the Hierran Wolfdog is an important adaptation that allows the breed to thrive in its natural environment.
The colour of the Hierran Wolfdog’s fur can vary depending on the individual and the region in which they live. In general, the breed tends to have a grey or black base colour, with white or cream markings on the face, chest, and legs. Some individuals may have a solid black or white coat, while others may have a mix of colours and patterns. The colour of the fur is not just for aesthetic purposes, but also serves as camouflage in the wild. The Hierran Wolfdog’s natural habitat is often rocky and mountainous, and the colour of their fur helps them blend in with their surroundings and avoid detection by prey or predators. Overall, the colour of the Hierran Wolfdog’s fur is an important adaptation that allows the breed to survive and thrive in its natural environment.
Termperament and Trainability
The Hierran Wolfdog is a breed that is known for its high energy and strong-willed temperament. They are intelligent and independent dogs that require a firm and consistent hand in training. Due to their wolf-like appearance, they can be mistaken for being aggressive, but with proper socialization and training, they can be loyal and affectionate companions. They are not recommended for first-time dog owners as they require an experienced handler who can provide them with the necessary mental and physical stimulation. The Hierran Wolfdog is a breed that thrives on challenges and enjoys learning new things, making them an excellent choice for activities such as agility and obedience training.
The Hierran Wolfdog is a breed that requires a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They have a strong prey drive and may chase after small animals, so it is important to keep them on a leash or in a secure area. They are not recommended for apartment living as they require a large space to run and play. The Hierran Wolfdog is a breed that is known for its loyalty and protective nature towards its family. They can be wary of strangers and may require early socialization to prevent any aggressive behavior. Overall, the Hierran Wolfdog is a breed that requires a dedicated owner who can provide them with the necessary training and exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
Known Health Conditions
The Hierran Wolfdog is a breed that is prone to certain health conditions. One of the most common issues that these dogs face is hip dysplasia. This is a condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and discomfort for the dog. It can also cause arthritis and mobility issues later in life. To prevent this condition, it is important to ensure that Hierran Wolfdogs are bred from parents with good hip scores and to provide them with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Another health condition that Hierran Wolfdogs may experience is bloat. This is a serious condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood supply to the organs. It can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention. To reduce the risk of bloat, it is recommended to feed Hierran Wolfdogs smaller, more frequent meals and to avoid exercise immediately after eating. Additionally, it is important to monitor their behavior and seek veterinary care if they show any signs of discomfort or distress.
Openness to Strangers
The Hierran Wolfdog is a fascinating canine that is known for its openness to strangers. This breed is highly sociable and enjoys interacting with people, making them a popular choice for families and individuals alike. They are known to be very friendly and approachable, often seeking out attention and affection from those around them. This makes them an excellent companion for those who are looking for a loyal and loving pet.
In addition to their friendly nature, the Hierran Wolfdog is also known for its intelligence and adaptability. They are quick learners and are able to adapt to new situations and environments with ease. This makes them an excellent choice for those who are looking for a dog that can keep up with their active lifestyle. Whether you are looking for a companion for outdoor adventures or simply a loyal friend to share your home with, the Hierran Wolfdog is an excellent choice. With their friendly nature and adaptability, they are sure to bring joy and companionship to your life.
Playfulness Level
The Hierran Wolfdog is a highly energetic and playful breed of canine. They are known for their love of play and their ability to keep their owners entertained for hours on end. These dogs are always on the go, and they love nothing more than to run, jump, and play with their human companions. Whether it’s a game of fetch or a romp in the park, the Hierran Wolfdog is always up for some fun.
One of the things that makes the Hierran Wolfdog so playful is their natural curiosity. These dogs are always exploring their surroundings, and they love to investigate new sights, sounds, and smells. They are also highly intelligent, which means that they are always looking for new challenges to keep their minds engaged. This combination of curiosity and intelligence makes the Hierran Wolfdog a highly entertaining and playful breed of dog that is sure to bring joy and laughter to any household.
Suitability as a Pet for Children
Hierran Wolfdogs are a highly active and intelligent breed, making them a great choice for families with children who have plenty of energy to keep up with them. They are loyal and affectionate towards their owners, but can be wary of strangers, so early socialisation is important. With proper training and socialisation, Hierran Wolfdogs can make excellent family pets, but they do require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviour. It is important to note that they have a strong prey drive and may not be suitable for households with small pets.
Exercise Needs
Hierran Wolfdogs are highly active and energetic dogs that require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. These dogs have a strong instinct to run and explore, and they thrive in environments where they can engage in activities such as hiking, running, and playing fetch. Owners of Hierran Wolfdogs should be prepared to provide their pets with at least 60-90 minutes of exercise per day, which can be broken up into multiple sessions if necessary. It is important to note that these dogs are not well-suited for apartment living or sedentary lifestyles, as they may become bored and destructive if they do not receive enough physical and mental stimulation.
In addition to regular exercise, Hierran Wolfdogs also benefit from training and socialization to help them develop good behavior and manners. These dogs are intelligent and independent, which can make them challenging to train at times, but with patience and consistency, they can learn a variety of commands and tricks. Socialization is also important for Hierran Wolfdogs, as they can be wary of strangers and other dogs if they are not exposed to them early on. Owners should make sure to expose their Hierran Wolfdogs to a variety of people, animals, and environments to help them become well-adjusted and confident pets.
Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family
Hierran Wolfdogs have a reputation for being independent and strong-willed. They are known to be loyal to their owners and protective of their territory. When it comes to other pets, Hierran Wolfdogs can be unpredictable. Some may get along well with other dogs or cats, while others may be aggressive towards them. It is important to socialize Hierran Wolfdogs from a young age and supervise them when interacting with other pets.
Housing Requirements
Hierran Wolfdogs require a spacious living environment that allows them to move around freely. They need a minimum of 30 square meters of living space, with an additional 10 square meters for each additional dog. The living space should be divided into two areas: a sleeping area and an activity area. The sleeping area should be lined with soft bedding and kept warm during colder months. The activity area should have enough space for the dogs to play and exercise. It is important to note that Hierran Wolfdogs are active dogs and require daily exercise to maintain their physical and mental health.
In addition to a spacious living environment, Hierran Wolfdogs require a secure outdoor area where they can run and play. The outdoor area should be at least 100 square meters per dog and should be securely fenced to prevent escape. Hierran Wolfdogs are known for their high prey drive, so it is important to ensure that the fence is tall enough to prevent them from jumping over it. The outdoor area should also have a sheltered area where the dogs can seek shade during hot weather and shelter during rain or snow. It is important to provide the dogs with fresh water and food in both the indoor and outdoor areas.
Summary
The Hierran Wolfdog is a controversial choice as a pet due to its wild ancestry and potential for aggression. While some owners report success in training and socializing these dogs, they require experienced handlers and a lot of time and effort to ensure they are well-behaved and safe around people and other animals. Additionally, laws and regulations regarding ownership of wolfdogs vary by region, and potential owners should thoroughly research and understand the legal implications before bringing one into their home.
Hierran Wolfdog Dog FAQS
Hierran Wolfdogs can be difficult to train due to their strong-willed nature and high energy levels. They require a firm and consistent training approach.
Yes, Hierran Wolfdogs can make good guard dogs due to their protective nature and strong instincts.
Hierran Wolfdogs can be good with children if they are socialized properly from a young age. However, they are not recommended for families with very young children.
The legality of owning a Hierran Wolfdog as a pet varies by country and state. It is important to check local laws before getting one as a pet.
Hierran Wolfdogs can be aggressive towards other pets, especially smaller animals. It is important to socialize them with other pets from a young age.
Yes, Hierran Wolfdogs require a lot of exercise and should have at least 2 hours of physical activity per day.
Yes, Hierran Wolfdogs shed a lot and require regular grooming to maintain their coat.
Hierran Wolfdogs can grow up to 70-80 cm (27-31 inches) in height and weigh between 30-45 kg (66-99 lbs).
A Hierran Wolfdog is a breed of dog that is a cross between a German Shepherd and a wolf.
Hierran Wolfdogs require a high-protein diet that is rich in nutrients. It is recommended to feed them a diet that is specifically formulated for large breed dogs.
![](https://justusdogs.com.au/wp-content/wphb-cache/gravatar/6c9/6c9b5efed5db1d9f510231679d3d0fabx100.jpg)
Helena is aSenior Associate Veterinarian at Kleintierpraxis Wandsbek and an avid dog breed author.