10 Dogs That Look Like Wolves: Wild Appearance, Loving Nature

Some dogs have a wild, striking look that reminds you of wolves. From their sharp eyes to their thick fur, these breeds can really stand out in a crowd.

You can enjoy a dog with a bold, wolf-like appearance while still getting the loyal and gentle companion you want at home. Many of these dogs have hearts of gold and a calm nature that fits well with families.

1. Siberian Husky

• If you want a dog that looks like a wolf, the Siberian Husky is a top choice. Huskies have thick fur, upright ears, and striking facial markings, all traits that remind people of wild wolves.
• Even though Huskies seem wild, they are friendly and make great family pets. They have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercise every day.
• Siberian Huskies are medium-sized dogs. They usually weigh between 35 and 60 pounds and stand up to 24 inches tall. Their blue or multicolored eyes and bushy tails give them an even more wolf-like appearance.
• The Husky’s looks come from a shared ancestry with wolves and their history as sled dogs in cold regions.
• Huskies are playful and intelligent, but they can be stubborn. Consistent training and positive attention help them thrive in a home.

2. Alaskan Malamute

• When you see an Alaskan Malamute, you might think you are looking at a wolf. This breed has a thick, double coat and strong, wolf-like features. Its large size, pointed ears, and bushy tail add even more to its wild appearance.
• Despite its looks, the Alaskan Malamute is a domesticated dog breed. It was originally bred to pull heavy sleds in arctic regions. Malamutes are known for their strength and stamina.
• You will find that Malamutes are very loyal and friendly with their families. They do well in active homes and need plenty of exercise. Many people choose this breed because it looks like a wolf but has a gentle heart.

3. Czechoslovakian Vlcak

• The Czechoslovakian Vlcak is a breed that closely resembles a wild wolf. Its sharp eyes, straight back, and bushy tail make it stand out in any crowd. You might even do a double take when you see one for the first time.
• This breed began as an experiment in Czechoslovakia during the 1950s. The goal was to combine the strength and stamina of a Carpathian wolf with the loyalty and trainability of a German Shepherd. The result was a dog that looks wild but fits into domestic life.
• The Czechoslovakian Vlcak is alert, active, and very smart. These dogs are devoted to their owners and can form strong bonds with their families. While they have a wolf-like appearance, they act much like any other loyal dog breed.
• Even though this breed has a fierce look, it can be trained and socialized to live safely with people. They need regular exercise, lots of attention, and daily mental challenges.

4. Finnish Lapphund

• If you want a dog that looks like a wolf but has a gentle, friendly personality, you might like the Finnish Lapphund. This breed comes from Lapland, where they were used to herd reindeer. They have thick, fluffy coats and upright ears, giving them a wild, wolf-like look.
• Finnish Lapphunds are medium-sized dogs with strong builds. They are known for being good with families and children. While their appearance is striking, their personality is calm and approachable.
• These dogs are intelligent and learn new commands quickly. You may notice they have bursts of energy, but they can also relax and enjoy peaceful times at home. Their friendly nature makes them a nice choice if you want a dog that looks like a wolf but acts like a best friend.
• Their thick coats help them handle cold climates well. They are also known for being loyal and easy-going, making them popular with active families in cool areas.

5. German Shepherd

• German Shepherds were bred for herding and working closely with humans. Despite their wolf-like look, they are loyal and trainable household pets. You can see their devotion when they follow commands and protect their families.
• This breed’s wolfish looks are no accident. Over many years, German Shepherds were selectively bred to keep certain traits that make them appear similar to wolves. Their appearance often turns heads while their steady nature brings peace to their owners.
• German Shepherds also have a unique walk and posture that can seem wolf-like. If you want a dog with a wild look but a gentle home life, this breed is a classic option. For more about wolf-like breeds, you can check out this overview of wolf-like dog breeds.

6. Canadian Eskimo Dog

• The Canadian Eskimo Dog has a strong, wolf-like appearance with its thick fur, pointed ears, and bushy tail. This breed was developed as a working dog in the Arctic, where it helped pull sleds and hunt.
• You might notice that the Canadian Eskimo Dog is also sometimes called the “Canadian Inuit Dog.” It is known for its strength, endurance, and ability to handle extremely cold weather. Despite its wild look, this breed is loyal and close to its family.
• If you are thinking about bringing home a Canadian Eskimo Dog, you should know these dogs are energetic and need lots of exercise. Their working background means they do best with active owners who can give them plenty to do.
• Canadian Eskimo Dogs can be independent, but with the right training and care, they make dedicated pets. Their appearance might remind you of wolves, but their temperament is friendly and dependable.

7. Tamaskan Dog

• The Tamaskan Dog is a breed developed to look like a wolf. However, it has no recent wolf ancestry. Its striking appearance comes from the careful blending of several northern dog breeds.
• You will notice the Tamaskan has a thick coat, bushy tail, and upright ears. These traits make it easy to mistake for a wild animal at first glance.
• Despite its wild look, the Tamaskan is known for its friendly and social nature. It was bred to be a companion and family dog, not a guard dog or working animal. The breed is often described as gentle and good with children.
• If you are looking for a loyal pet with a wolf-like appearance, the Tamaskan is a good choice. This breed is energetic and will need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. The Tamaskan is also intelligent and enjoys learning new tasks.

8. Shikoku Inu

• The Shikoku Inu is a rare Japanese breed known for its wolf-like appearance. You might notice the sharp features and pointed ears that make this dog look a lot like its wild relatives. The breed is sometimes called the Japanese Wolf Dog.
• This breed is not as common outside of Japan, so it may be hard to find a Shikoku Inu puppy in some countries. Its unique look and history make it special for those seeking a dog with a wild look and a strong heritage.
• If you are looking for a dog with an active nature, the Shikoku can be a good choice. These dogs were originally bred for hunting larger game like boars.
• They need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy. Because of their rare status, they are not often seen outside their home country, but they are valued by those who know them for their unique traits and loyal hearts.

9. Swedish Vallhund

• The Swedish Vallhund is a small, sturdy dog with a wolf-like face and pointed ears. At first glance, you might notice how its look is a blend of a wolf and a corgi. This breed’s low build and thick double coat help it stand out among other herding dogs.
• You will often see Vallhunds in shades of gray, black, or red, which adds to their wolfish appearance. The markings and facial shape can remind you of wild canines, but this dog is far from wild at heart.
• Swedish Vallhunds are known for their energy, cleverness, and strong herding instincts. They like to stay busy and enjoy having a job. If you want a dog that looks a little like a wolf but acts like a lively, loyal companion, the Vallhund could be a great fit.
• This breed is also very social. Swedish Vallhunds often do well with children, other pets, and families of all sizes. Their playful and friendly attitude matches their striking, wolf-like features.

10. Yakutian Laika

• The Yakutian Laika looks a lot like a wolf because of its wedge-shaped head, upright ears, and thick double coat. This dog comes from Yakutia, a cold region in Siberia, where it was bred to handle freezing temperatures.
• You will notice its fur is dense and often white with black or gray markings. Its strong nose, deep chest, and bushy tail add to its wild, wolf-like appearance.
• This breed is not just about looks. The Yakutian Laika is very hardy and was used for pulling sleds, herding, and hunting in tough arctic conditions. If you want a dog that can handle cold weather and energetic activities, this breed is a good fit.
• Despite their wild look, Yakutian Laikas are friendly and loyal to their families. They are known to be intelligent, versatile, and adaptable to different jobs.