SELECTING THE RIGHT WOLFDOG PUPPY

INTRODUCTION

           Gorgeous, graceful, tall and light of limb. Beautiful, full coat, noble in appearance. Solid, big-boned, big body, built for strength. Large and agile, strong yet gentle.

           Lovingly devoted to family and children. Adoring, frolicking, full of fun and mischief. Bold, energetic, outgoing.  Quiet, calm, stable, non-aggressive. The American Wolfdog is all of these things and much, much more.

SELECTING THE RIGHT PUPPY

           The choice of selecting a puppy or an adult wolfdog is yours alone; however, since 3 out of 4 prospective wolfdog owners want a puppy, the problem of selecting and preparing for the new arrival almost always means the arrival of a young puppy. This is not to say that there is anything wrong with bringing home an adult wolfdog but as a puppy the wolfdog bonds with its first family like no other.

           Know the family background of the puppy. Ask to see the parents of the puppy. A reputable breeder will be proud to do so. An informed and reputable breeder should belong to an organization and the parents should be registered. If they are not registered, walk away; no matter how "cute" the puppy is! If you do get a puppy, get copies of the parents' registration papers also. If the breeder is uncooperative or evasive, this is a strong indication that you are dealing with a puppy miller, a backyard breeder or with someone of questionable honesty or character. Contact the organization(s) and inquire about the status of the breeder and the quality of their animals.

            Selecting the right puppy for you and your family is very important. Wolfdogs come in various sizes, color and temperament. When the puppy grows so large, will you be uncomfortable with him? Will you be able to provide adequate room and containment facilities to fulfill his exercise needs? Will you be able to spend the necessary time to raise and socialize him properly or do you have other more pressing considerations?

           Investigate your prospective puppy thoroughly. Ask about his adult size and appearance. Ask about temperament. When studying a prospective puppy, look for signs of withdrawal from people, as well as signs of being overly "pushy". Watch for signs of aggression. If you want a calm, sociable animal, look for an easy-going puppy, look for an adventurous, more dominant pup. Observe his reactions to you and your family. Is he friendly? Does he like children? Is he calm or active? Do you want a male or female? Your preference as to the sex of your puppy is strictly a personal choice.

           It is recommended that your new puppy be spayed/ neutered as soon as he is old enough. Your veterinarian can tell you at what age it is safe to spay/ neuter. Most Animal Services Departments offer a SPAY Clinic to help reduce the cost of spaying or neutering. Their phone number is listed in your local telephone directory.

           There are many opinions as to what age a wolfdog puppy should be brought home. Opinions vary from under 14 days up to 8 weeks. Read and study everything about these canines that you can get your hands on. Question as many experienced owners as you can before you get the puppy. Bonding and socialization must begin at a young age.

           Pick out a healthy, attractive pup to join your family. Often a puppy will pick you. Trust your eyes and hands to tell if the puppy is sound in body. His ears and eyes should not have suspicious discharge or odors. Legs should have strong bones. Bodies should have solid muscle. Coats should be clean. Ask for a Health Certificate showing which shots have been given and which shots are due. This Health Certificate should also give the dates on which the puppy has been wormed. Insist on lineage papers and complete registration forms so you can register your pup with USAWA.

PUPPY'S FIRST NIGHT

           Prepare for your puppy's arrival before you bring him home. Allow yourself ample time to properly begin his life with you. Is your back yard fenced with the required height? A loose wolfdog puppy is asking to be run over by a car or cause problems with your neighbors. Is there ample shade and water available? If you are planning on leaving your puppy in your back yard while you are at work, he will need a dog house to protect him from the weather. Another canine companion of similar temperament, background or age is desirable to keep him company if your work long hours. A wolf's nature is not one to be alone. The wolfdog is a pack-oriented animal. It needs companionship.

Puppy's first night at home is likely to be disturbing to the family. Keep in mind that this is the first time he has been away from his mother, brothers and sisters, and he may be confused and frightened. If you have a special room for his bed, be sure that there is nothing there with which he can harm himself. Be sure that there is nothing he can tip, pull over, or chew. Check furniture that he might get stuck under or behind. If you want him to sleep in your room, he will probably be quiet all night, reassured by your presence. If left in a room by himself, he will cry and howl and you will have to steel yourself to ignore his whining. After a few nights alone he will adjust. The first night he is alone it is wise to put a loud-ticking alarm clock, as well as his toys, in the room with him. The alarm clock will make a comforting noise and he will not feel alone. Sometimes a softly-playing radio works well.

Every dog likes to have a place that is his alone. He holds nothing more sacred than his own bed. If you get your puppy a bed, be sure it is one that discourages chewing. It should be large enough to be comfortable when he is full-grown. Locate it away from drafts and radiators. Encourage your puppy to sleep in his bed. Stop playing 1/2 hour before his bedtime and he will settle down faster.

HEALTH AND INOCULATIONS

           Regardless of how you acquire your new puppy or dog, you should arrange to get him to a veterinarian as soon as possible for a routine check-up and to set up a schedule of inoculations. Select a veterinarian who you feel qualified to treat wolfdogs. He will get to know your wolfdog and will be glad to have you consult him for advice. Puppy shots and regular booster shots will help to guarantee many years of enjoyment and companionship.

           The majority of wolfdogs never have a health problem. For the few diseases that you might be concerned about, remember that your veterinarian is your dog's best friend. A dog needs little medical care, but that little is essential to his good health and well-being. He needs:

Regular check-ups and inoculations.

Clean, roomy housing.

Daily exercise.

Frequent grooming.

Companionship and love.