Descended from the grey wolf, domesticated dogs have been companions to humans for thousands of years. Later, the dogs were bred for their skills as gundogs, herders, or hunters, eventually creating hundreds of modern breeds. If you love the wolfish look, it helps to know which breeds resemble wolves.
#1 Czechoslovakian Wolfdog
The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog is a large working breed that is very loyal to its family and those in its inner circle. Bred in the 50s from a German Shepherd and Carpathian grey wolves, the Czech Wolfdog was officially recognized as a national breed in Czechoslovakia in 1982. Puppies of the first generation resembled the wolf in behavior and appearance.
#2 Saarloos Wolfdog
The Saarloos Wolfdog was bred by the crossing of the Siberian Grey Wolf with a German Shepherd. It has wolf-like expressions and a wolf-like head. Its eyes are yellow and almond-shaped. In 1981, the breed was recognized by the FCI. It weighs up to 45 kg (100 lb).
#3 Tamaskan Dog
The Tamaskan Dog is a large-sized dog that is slightly taller than a German Shepherd. The Tamaskan Dog has a wolfish appearance and has a thick double coat that comes in three main colors:
- black gray
- red gray
- wolf gray
Tamaskan Dogs are generally good with children and other pets.
#4 Northern Inuit Dog
Northern Inuits are medium-to-large dogs that were bred from Siberian Husky, Labrador Husky, German Shepherd, Alaskan Malamute, and Alaskan Husky. I find it interesting that the breed played the young dire wolves in Game of Thrones. Northern Inuit Dogs are bred specifically to look like wolves. Male Northern Inuit Dogs have an average weight of 95 pounds.
#5 Siberian Husky
Weighing up to 60 pounds, the Siberian Huskie is a medium-sized working sled dog. It was recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1966. The Siberian Husky tends to be independent and stubborn.
They are double-coated to protect them from extreme cold. They can be great family dogs if properly trained. They need at least one to two hours of exercise daily. Despite the similar looks, the Siberian husky is not a wolf.
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#6 Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute was developed by the Malemiut people of Alaska. In 2010, it was named the official state dog of Alaska. The breed’s thick coat needs brushing daily. The dogs served as hunting partners for seals and polar bears. The dogs served as hunting partners for seals and polar bears. They have strong predatory instincts and may consider smaller animals as prey.
#7 West Siberian Laika
The West Siberian Laika is a breed of spitz–type hunting dog that originated in North Ural and West Siberia. You will be happy to know that the West Siberian Laika is renowned for its bravery and versatility. Some work well herding reindeer herds. They’re loyal to their family. However, the majority of them bark at strangers approaching the house. Most WSL are some shade of wolf gray.
#8 Samoyed
This breed’s name comes from the Samoyedic peoples of Siberia. The Samoyed breed is one of 14 with direct ties to ancient wolves. Possibly due to the Samoyed’s genetic closeness to wolves, the breed is known to howl.
#9 Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhounds are stout working dogs known for their bold spirit and courage. They are bred for hunting large game, such as wolves, bears, and elk. They have an average life span of 12 to 15 years. They evolved partially from an ancestral gray wolf species.
#10 German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is a muscular and alert dog that was originally bred as a herding dog. Later, it became used by the police and the armed forces. German Shepherds are very loyal and love to be kept active, so they can be easily trained. They are not inclined to become immediate friends with strangers.
German Shepherds are best for experienced pet parents who can handle their energy level. They are said to most resemble the wolf with their big ears and long noses.
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#11 Swedish Vallhund
The Swedish Vallhund is a breed of dog native to Sweden that can compete in a variety of sports. It looks like a cross between a Welsh Corgi and a wolf. They originated in the province of Västergötland. Swedish Vallhunds have a tight topcoat and a soft, dense undercoat.
#12 Canadian Eskimo
It is a breed of working dog from the Arctic that has a primarily carnivorous diet. It is loyal, tough, brave, intelligent, and alert. They have unique face masks and a wolf-like appearance.
#13 Belgian Malinois
It is a Belgian breed of herding dog of medium size. Belgian Malinois are a very high-energy breed that needs considerable amounts of active engagement.
#14 Yakutian Laika
The Yakutian Laika is a dog breed originating from the Yakutia region of Siberia. They can work through the whole day, from dawn to sunset. They look like a wolf because of their thick double coat, upright ears, and wedge-shaped head.
#15 Kugsha
The Kugsha Dog, or the Amerindian Malamute, is descended from the wolf.