as adopted and approved by USAWA membership and Board of Directors March, 1991 and January, 1996

rev. 10/96

           This Breed Standard is part of a comprehensive Canine Evaluation System established by USAWA to assist it’s members in the continued evaluation, development and perfection of our companion dog breed. The Evaluation System should be used by members to evaluate their animals in achieving this end. The Canine Evaluation System will also be used by USAWA in evaluating animals. The Canine Evaluation System includes this Breed Standard, the Registration Numbering Procedure with the Phenotypic Guidelines, and the Responsible Breeder Guidelines and Regulations.

           What distinguishes the WOLFDOG from other dogs, so that you can recognize a member of the breed from a distance? The stately head with its striking cheek-ruffs, the erect ears, the commanding body size, its comparatively long legs, the statuesque appearance, and its general outline should be enough. These important points are defined in the STANDARD OF PERFECTION for the breed, along with other characteristics that combine to make the breed unique in the dog world.                                  

            The Wolfdog is a natural breed, full of life and seemingly limitless energy, having retained sturdiness and intuitive abilities. This dog breed has not degenerated into an animal wrought with genetic abnormalities, diseases, mental frailty, temperamental unpredictability or weakness. The breed has proven adaptable to domestic life despite its general aloofness with strangers. Somewhat resembling the wolf in appearance, its temperament is suitable to living as a companion to and in service to, man. This canine is a tall, powerfully built animal with a narrow chest, and a strong body that is slightly long in proportion to its height. The overall conformation should give the impression of depth and solidity without undue bulk. The coat is thick, layered and woolly undercoated, ranging between one and two inches deep (depending on the season). This natural breed is superbly equipped for cold climates. Colors range from white to a black phase, with wolf gray and sable being the most frequent colors.

           This breed is strong-willed, alert and active with remarkable dexterity. Its instincts are strong and cannot be ignored. Although often cautious and aloof to newcomers, the breed exhibits striking dedication and an intense craving for the attention and companionship of its human family. These dogs learn early who is the head dog, at which time a profound bond develops toward its owner and family. The breed is extremely social when properly socialized and acclimated to people outside the family at an early age. Its expression indicates alertness, overwhelming awareness and readiness for activity. The gaze is impressive, inquisitive and captivating. The overall impression should convey the abilities of great speed, strength and endurance, coupled with grace and symmetry. Emphasis is placed on sound running gear, movement and proper condition. The Wolfdog should be a well muscled athletic dog, but carry no excess weight.

           Unique to this breed is the special emphasis placed on human socialization, non-aggressive temperament, and the elimination of genetic faults common to other large dog breeds. Members of the breed are often of a cautious and independent soul, and can sometimes be arrogantly unmanageable. These are clever and uncannily intelligent dogs that are a constant source of diversion and delight for their masters, who often state that they are difficult to contain because of their digging ability and high-jump proficiency. A responsible owner with an understanding of the breed is essential to keep a dominant canine in tow. Attention is placed on adherence to a general standard, accurate lineage, health and socialization. This natural breed has surprising longevity, from 10 to 18 years is common.

            Animals that meet all the established criteria therein may be requested to be registered as a dog breed known as the AMERICAN WOLFDOG. Unless officially registered by USAWA as such, no canine may be designated as or referred to as an AMERICAN WOLFDOG. General Wolfdog and specific American Wolfdog breed requirements, based on the deviation from perfection using a fault/point system, are therein described.

CLASS 1 = DEVIATION

CLASS 2 = FAULT

CLASS 3 = DISQUALIFICATION