## Quick Facts

- Powerful working dog with a calm, thoughtful nature when well bred and well trained  
- Deeply loyal to family and often reserved or aloof with strangers  
- Medium to large size, strong and muscular, with a short, easy-care coat  
- Needs consistent training, mental stimulation, and daily physical exercise  
- Traditionally used for driving cattle and guarding, now popular in sports and as a devoted family companion  


## Appearance & Coat

The Rottweiler is a compact yet powerful dog, built more for endurance and strength than speed. The body is slightly longer than tall, with a broad chest, strong back, and very well developed muscles. A typical adult male stands around 61 to 68 cm at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller at about 56 to 63 cm. Weight can vary depending on build and condition, but a healthy Rottweiler should look robust and athletic rather than bulky or overweight.

The head is one of the breed’s most striking features. It is broad with a well defined stop, strong muzzle, and powerful jaws. The eyes are medium sized, almond shaped, and dark, giving an alert yet steady expression. Ears are medium, triangular, and carried close to the head, which adds to the attentive look. Everything about the Rottweiler’s appearance hints at its working origins and its ability to perform demanding tasks.

The coat is short, dense, and straight, with a firm texture and a protective undercoat. It lies close to the body and offers good protection against the weather without needing complicated grooming. The only accepted color is black with well defined rust or mahogany markings. These markings appear above the eyes, on the cheeks, muzzle, chest, legs, and underneath the tail. Clear, symmetrical markings are considered a hallmark of the breed.

Coat care is relatively simple. A weekly brushing with a rubber grooming mitt or soft bristle brush helps remove loose hair and keeps the skin healthy. During shedding seasons in spring and autumn, more frequent brushing can keep hair under control. Regularly check and clean:

- Ears to prevent wax buildup
- Eyes for any redness or discharge
- Nails, which should be trimmed so they do not touch the ground when the dog walks

Bathing is usually only needed every few months or when the dog is dirty. Too frequent bathing can dry out the skin. Most Rottweilers are not heavy shedders compared to some long haired breeds, but owners should still expect a steady, moderate amount of hair in the home year round.


## Temperament & Personality

A well bred and well socialised Rottweiler is often described as calm, confident, and self assured. This is not typically an overly excitable breed. Many are somewhat reserved with strangers and take their time to assess new people and situations. With their own family, however, they are usually affectionate, playful, and strongly attached. This is a dog that often prefers to be near its people rather than lying alone in another room.

With children, Rottweilers can be very gentle and patient, especially if they grow up together and the children are taught to respect the dog. Supervision is still essential with younger kids, partly because of the dog’s weight and strength. A happy, wiggling Rottweiler can easily knock over a small child without meaning to. Sensible rules, such as not climbing on the dog or disturbing it while eating or sleeping, help keep interactions positive.

When it comes to other dogs and pets, individual temperament and early experiences matter a lot. Some Rottweilers live happily with other dogs, especially if introduced properly. Others can be more selective or intolerant, particularly with dogs of the same sex. The breed has a strong guarding instinct and can be territorial, so careful introductions and ongoing management are important. Many do very well with cats and smaller pets if raised together and if prey drive is not overly strong.

Boisterous adolescence is a common challenge. As young adults, Rottweilers are often energetic, strong, and quite full of themselves. Without structure and consistency, this can quickly turn into pulling on the leash, jumping up, and ignoring recall. They are also sensitive to the mood of their handler. Harsh or unpredictable handling can lead to anxiety or defensive reactions in some individuals.

The best homes for this breed are those that offer:

- Clear rules and steady, kind leadership  
- Plenty of positive contact, not just time in the yard  
- Ongoing socialisation with people, dogs, and different environments  

<x-quote text="Our Rottweiler is very calm at home but he notices everything. He is happiest when he has a job, even if it is just carrying his toy on walks or staying close to our kids." from="Lina, Rottweiler owner" />


## Training & Exercise

The Rottweiler is an intelligent working dog that generally enjoys having tasks to do. Most are eager to learn, especially when training is fair, consistent, and based on reward. They respond very well to food rewards, toys, and genuine praise. Many show their best side when they know what is expected of them and when training sessions are part of everyday life rather than a rare event.

Early training should focus on:

- Walking politely on leash, even around distractions  
- A reliable recall, especially for such a strong breed  
- Calm greetings with people and other dogs  
- Settling on a mat or bed when asked  

Short, frequent sessions tend to work better than long, intensive ones, especially with young dogs. Rottweilers can be a little stubborn at times and may question unclear or inconsistent rules. This is not a breed that thrives with rough handling or punishment based methods. Instead, firm but kind guidance, clear boundaries, and plenty of positive reinforcement build trust and cooperation.

In terms of exercise, adult Rottweilers usually need at least one to two hours of mixed physical and mental activity each day. This does not have to be just long walks. Many enjoy:

- Tracking and nose work  
- Obedience or rally obedience  
- Hiking and long country walks  
- Structured games of fetch or tug  
- Pulling a cart or weight pull activities where permitted and done safely  

Puppies and young dogs should not be over exercised on hard surfaces to protect growing joints. Instead, focus on shorter walks, gentle play, and mental games like scent searches or simple problem solving tasks.

If their exercise and mental needs are not met, Rottweilers may become bored and create their own entertainment. This can appear as chewing, digging, barking, or guarding behavior that becomes too intense. A well exercised and well trained Rottweiler, on the other hand, is usually relaxed at home and content to rest near its family.

Obedience classes, puppy schools, and working dog clubs can be excellent resources. They provide structure, socialisation, and guidance for owners as well as for the dog. Many Rottweilers excel in dog sports and enjoy the extra challenge of training for trials and competitions.


## Health

Rottweilers are generally robust dogs, but like all breeds they have certain health issues that appear more frequently. Responsible breeders work actively to reduce these risks by health testing breeding dogs and carefully planning litters.

Joint problems are a primary concern. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia can cause pain, lameness, and early arthritis. In many countries, breeding dogs are x rayed and their hip and elbow scores are recorded. Prospective owners can ask breeders about these results and how they are used in breeding decisions.

Other conditions that may be seen in the breed include:

- Certain heart diseases, especially aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy  
- Cruciate ligament injuries in the knee  
- Various types of cancer, such as bone cancer in older dogs  
- Eye issues such as entropion in some lines  

Not every Rottweiler will develop these problems, but awareness helps owners recognise symptoms early and choose breeders who take health seriously. Regular vet check ups, weight control, and suitable exercise are all part of keeping the dog comfortable and active for as many years as possible.

A healthy adult Rottweiler typically lives around 8 to 10 years, with some individuals reaching their teens. Good nutrition is essential. Large, fast growing puppies should be fed a diet designed for large breed growth to help protect joints. Keeping the dog slim is one of the simplest ways to support long term health, especially for hips, elbows, and heart.

Useful health practices include:

- Yearly veterinary examinations  
- Vaccinations and parasite control according to local recommendations  
- Dental care and tooth brushing several times a week  
- Monitoring for lumps, changes in gait, or reduced stamina  

<x-quote text="When choosing a Rottweiler, it is worth asking detailed questions about health tests, temperament, and how the breeder raises the puppies. Good preparation can make a big difference over the dog’s lifetime." from="Get a Pet Editorial" />

Some owners also choose to take out dog insurance to help manage unexpected veterinary costs. If you are considering that, you can read more about options on our Pet Insurance page: https://getapet.com/en/pet-insurance


## History & Origins

The Rottweiler has roots that go back many centuries in Europe. It is believed that dogs of similar type accompanied Roman legions, helping to drive and guard cattle that travelled with the army. As the Romans moved through what is now southern Germany, their dogs likely mixed with local herding and guarding types.

The town of Rottweil, an important cattle and trading centre in the Middle Ages, gave the breed its name. Local butchers and livestock traders needed strong, intelligent dogs that could drive cattle to market, guard money and goods, and protect their owners on the road. The Rottweiler developed into a reliable all purpose farm and drover’s dog, valued for its courage and endurance.

With the introduction of railways and other changes in livestock transport, the demand for drover dogs decreased. At one point the breed nearly disappeared. Enthusiasts who appreciated the Rottweiler’s working ability helped preserve and further develop the breed, focusing on its role as a police, service, and protection dog. The dog’s natural guarding instinct, confidence, and strong build made it very suitable for these tasks.

In the twentieth century the Rottweiler gained recognition in kennel clubs and a formal breed standard was established. The breed spread beyond Germany and became popular worldwide. Today, it is used in various roles, such as search and rescue, tracking, obedience, and protection sports, as well as in some police and security work.

At the same time, many Rottweilers now live primarily as family companions. The best modern representatives still retain their traditional character: a stable, self confident dog that can work when needed, yet relax at home with the family. This dual role means that careful breeding and responsible ownership are especially important to maintain the breed’s sound temperament and reliable nature.

<x-quote text="Understanding the Rottweiler’s background as a driving and guarding dog helps explain both its strength and its need for clear, thoughtful leadership today." from="Get a Pet Editorial" />


## Living with the Breed

Sharing your life with a Rottweiler can be deeply rewarding, but it is not a light commitment. This is a large, powerful dog with a strong mind. It needs time, training, and daily involvement with its people. Owners should be prepared to invest in puppy classes, good quality food, suitable equipment, and regular vet care every year.

Typical ongoing costs include:

- Food, which can be significant for a large, active dog  
- Veterinary care, vaccinations, and preventive treatments  
- Insurance, if you choose to take it  
- Training classes or club memberships  
- Toys, bedding, grooming tools, and replacement equipment over time  

From a practical point of view, a sturdy harness or well fitted collar, a strong leash, non slip bowls, and a supportive bed are basic essentials. Many owners also find a crate useful for safe rest and travel, provided it is introduced carefully and never used as punishment. Because of the breed’s strength, investing in quality equipment is wise. Cheap gear that breaks at the wrong moment can be dangerous.

Life in an apartment is possible if the dog’s exercise and mental needs are met, but regular outdoor activity is non negotiable. A house with a secure garden or yard can make life easier, though the Rottweiler should not live isolated outdoors. This is a people oriented breed that thrives on daily contact and being included in family activities.

Social responsibility is an important part of owning this breed. Some people may be wary of Rottweilers due to their powerful appearance. Well mannered behavior in public, respectful interactions around other dogs, and consistent training all help show what the breed is capable of when properly managed. Many owners find that their calm, friendly Rottweiler becomes an ambassador for the breed.

<x-quote text="Living with a Rottweiler means planning your day around walks, training, and time together, but in return you get a dog that is truly part of the family and very aware of your routines." from="Mikael, dog owner" />

If you are unsure whether this is the right breed for you, tools like the Dog Breed Advisor can help you compare traits and needs: https://getapet.com/en/dog-breed-advisor  

For those ready to make the commitment, a well raised Rottweiler can be a steady, affectionate, and deeply loyal companion that is fully involved in everyday life.

Rottweiler

The Kennel Club (UK)

Svenska Rottweilerklubben (Swedish Rottweiler Club)

Norwegian Kennel Club

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

Deutscher Rottweiler-Klub (German Rottweiler Club)

The Rottweiler is a strong, medium‑large working dog with a short black coat and rust markings. Calm, loyal, and family‑oriented, it tends to be reserved with strangers. It needs kind, consistent training, daily mental and physical exercise, and responsible ownership to thrive.

## Quick Facts

- Dutch breed developed by crossing a German Shepherd with a European wolf, creating a very natural, wolf-like companion.
- Extremely sensitive and reserved with strangers, yet deeply loyal and attached to “their” people.
- Not a beginner’s dog and generally unsuited to hectic city life or small apartments.
- Needs a lot of secure outdoor space, mental stimulation, and patient, positive training to thrive.
- Best with experienced owners who appreciate independent, primitive-type dogs and can commit to careful socialisation.

## Appearance & Coat

The Saarloos Wolfdog is a striking, athletic dog that immediately catches the eye with its clear wolf-like expression and natural elegance. At first glance you see a balanced, lightly built animal, never bulky or exaggerated. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, with a straight, strong back and a deep but not overly broad chest. Everything about the Saarloos Wolfdog suggests endurance, agility, and the ability to move over long distances without tiring.

Males are usually noticeably larger and more powerful than females. While exact height and weight can vary, you can expect a tall, medium to large sized dog. Females often appear a little more refined and feminine in head and body. The head itself is wedge-shaped, with a slightly domed skull, a gently defined stop, and a relatively long muzzle. The eyes are almond-shaped, slightly oblique, and often yellow or amber, which adds strongly to the wolf-like expression. Ears are medium-sized, triangular, and carried erect, set fairly high on the head but not overly large.

The Saarloos Wolfdog coat is double layered and weather resistant. The outer coat is straight, close lying, and fairly harsh to the touch. Underneath there is a thick, soft undercoat that adjusts to the climate. In winter, this undercoat becomes very dense to protect the dog from cold and damp, while in summer it becomes lighter and sparser. Around the neck, shoulders, and back of the thighs you can often see more abundant hair, creating a slight ruff and “pants.”

Common colours include:

- Wolf grey  
- Brown shaded sable  
- Cream or light, diluted shades of these colours  

White markings may appear but should not dominate. The colour is often shaded, with darker hairs overlaying lighter ones, which creates a natural, wild look similar to that of a wolf. The nose is strongly pigmented and matches the coat type, usually black or brown.

Coat care is fairly straightforward but requires routine. The Saarloos Wolfdog sheds heavily during seasonal coat changes, often twice a year. During these periods, daily brushing with a slicker brush or pin brush helps remove loose undercoat and keeps hair from covering your furniture. Outside shedding seasons, a thorough brushing once or twice a week is usually enough. Bathing should be rare and only when necessary because frequent shampooing can strip the natural oils that help waterproof the coat and protect the skin. Most owners find that a simple rinse with clean water after a muddy walk is usually enough.

Regular checks of ears, teeth, and nails are important. The erect ears allow good airflow but still need occasional inspection and gentle cleaning. Nails should be kept at a reasonable length to support sound movement, especially if the dog does not naturally wear them down on rough surfaces. Overall, maintenance is manageable for a large dog, but you must be prepared for periods of very heavy shedding.

## Temperament & Personality

Living with a Saarloos Wolfdog is very different from living with many typical companion breeds. This is a sensitive, intelligent, and independent dog that still carries strong traits from its wolf ancestry. The typical Saarloos Wolfdog is reserved, watchful, and cautious with strangers, but not naturally aggressive. Instead of confronting something that worries them, many will choose to keep their distance or retreat. This tendency to avoid conflict is an important part of the breed’s character and must be understood and respected.

With their own family, Saarloos Wolfdogs are often deeply attached, gentle, and sometimes surprisingly affectionate in their own quiet way. They may follow their person from room to room, lie at their feet, or rest where they can observe everyone. Many are very attuned to human emotions and react strongly to tension, raised voices, or chaotic environments. They tend to feel safest in calm, predictable households with clear routines.

Around children, a well-bred, well-socialised Saarloos Wolfdog can be kind and tolerant, but this is not a rough-and-tumble, endlessly patient “nanny” dog. They are usually better with older, respectful children who understand how to behave gently with animals. Fast, noisy play or sudden hugs can easily overwhelm them. Careful supervision is essential, and children must be taught to give the dog space when it chooses to walk away.

With other dogs, the breed often does well, particularly if raised with them from a young age. Saarloos Wolfdogs can enjoy the company of their own kind and other stable, polite dogs. They tend to be subtle communicators, using body language and avoidance rather than open conflict. However, mismatches can happen, especially with pushy or very dominant dogs that do not read their signals. Introducing them slowly and thoughtfully is important. With smaller pets, such as cats or rabbits, their natural prey drive can be an issue. Some individuals coexist peacefully with cats they grow up with, while others may always see small animals as something to chase. Prospective owners should think carefully if they have free roaming small pets.

Common challenges include:

- Shyness or strong reserve with unfamiliar people and environments  
- Tendency to flee or avoid rather than confront when scared  
- Strong independence, which can look like stubbornness in training  
- Sensitivity to punishment, harsh voices, and chaotic households  

A Saarloos Wolfdog is not the ideal choice for someone who wants a highly social, outgoing dog that loves every stranger. Nor is it a good fit for households that expect immediate obedience or constant cuddling. However, for people who appreciate a thoughtful, observant, almost wild-spirited companion, the Saarloos Wolfdog can be immensely rewarding. They need trust, time, and a sense of safety, and in return they form deep, lasting bonds.

## Training & Exercise

Training a Saarloos Wolfdog requires patience, consistency, and a particular mindset. This is not a dog that will blindly follow commands simply to please. Instead, they tend to think for themselves and often ask, “Why should I do this?” before responding. They are highly intelligent and learn quickly, but motivation must be handled carefully.

Positive reinforcement is vital. Food treats, gentle praise, and the opportunity to move or explore are all powerful rewards for this breed. Short, varied training sessions work far better than long, repetitive drills. Many owners find that strict, obedience-focused methods that rely on physical corrections or raised voices quickly damage trust. The Saarloos Wolfdog is very sensitive to tension and unfairness. Once trust is lost, it can be difficult to regain.

A good training approach includes:

- Early, thoughtful socialisation to people, places, surfaces, and sounds  
- Reward-based training methods using treats, toys, or access to interesting environments  
- Clear, simple cues and consistent routines  
- Plenty of time to observe and process new experiences rather than being pushed  

Socialisation must be handled especially carefully. For a Saarloos Wolfdog puppy, quality is more important than quantity. Overwhelming a young dog with crowded places or forcing interactions with strangers can backfire and increase insecurity. Instead, allow the puppy to watch from a safe distance, then choose to approach if it feels confident. Calm, dog-savvy visitors who ignore the puppy until it decides to say hello are often very helpful.

Exercise needs are significant. This breed was designed for stamina more than speed. Daily long walks and opportunities to trot steadily at your side will help keep them balanced and relaxed. A fit adult Saarloos Wolfdog will usually enjoy:

- One or two long walks or hikes every day  
- Time to explore natural areas on a long line or in a secure field  
- Scent-based games, tracking, or searching for hidden items  
- Activities that tap into their curiosity, such as puzzle feeders or scent trails  

Although energetic, they are not usually hyperactive in the home if properly exercised. They are often calm and content to rest after their physical and mental needs are met. However, without enough outlets, they may become restless, anxious, or destructive. Secure fencing is essential, as many Saarloos Wolfdogs are talented at finding weak points, squeezing through gaps, or climbing if they feel like escaping.

Some individuals enjoy structured activities like mantrailing, tracking, or canicross. Traditional precision obedience or protection sports are usually not a good match due to their independent nature and soft character. They respond far better to cooperative activities that allow them to use their senses and natural talents, rather than tasks requiring intense handler focus and high pressure.

In summary, training a Saarloos Wolfdog is about building a respectful partnership. If you approach them as a teammate rather than a servant, and if you provide enough physical exercise and mental stimulation, you will discover an exceptionally intelligent and responsive companion.

## Health

The Saarloos Wolfdog is generally a robust and hardy breed, but like all dogs it has some health concerns that responsible owners and breeders must take seriously. Because the breed was founded from a limited number of dogs, including a single wolf and a few German Shepherds, managing genetic diversity is an important ongoing task within the breeding community.

Orthopedic issues are among the primary concerns. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia can occur, where the joints do not form correctly and may lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis over time. Ethical breeders test their breeding dogs using official hip and elbow scoring schemes and only breed from animals with satisfactory results. Prospective puppy buyers should always ask to see these scores for both parents and not rely only on verbal reassurance.

Eye health is another area to monitor. Hereditary eye disorders, including cataracts or retinal problems, may occur in some lines. Regular eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist are strongly recommended for breeding dogs. Some clubs and national breed organisations maintain health registers that list tested dogs and their results, which helps breeders make informed choices.

Degenerative myelopathy, a progressive neurological disease that affects the spinal cord, has been found in related breeds like the German Shepherd and is monitored in the Saarloos Wolfdog. There are DNA tests available that identify carriers. Responsible breeding programs use these tests to avoid producing affected puppies while still maintaining as much genetic diversity as possible.

Typical health tests recommended for Saarloos Wolfdogs include:

- Hip dysplasia evaluation  
- Elbow dysplasia evaluation  
- Eye examination by a certified specialist  
- DNA tests for known hereditary conditions where available  

Overall lifespan for the Saarloos Wolfdog often ranges from around 10 to 13 years, with some individuals living longer. As a relatively natural and athletic breed, many remain active well into their senior years if kept at a healthy weight and given appropriate exercise.

Preventive care plays a large role in their wellbeing. A balanced diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and parasite prevention all help protect long-term health. Because the Saarloos Wolfdog can be sensitive and easily stressed, choosing a vet who understands their cautious nature is valuable. Forced handling, noisy waiting rooms, and rushed examinations can increase anxiety, so using calm, low stress techniques is ideal.

Owners should monitor for subtle signs of discomfort, such as reluctance to jump, stiffness after rest, changes in gait, or decreased interest in activities. These may indicate joint issues or other health problems. Regular weight checks are important, since extra kilos place unnecessary strain on the joints and reduce overall quality of life.

Responsible breeding is crucial for this rare breed. Enthusiast breeders often work closely with breed clubs and health committees to plan matings that balance temperament, type, and health. When looking for a puppy, choose breeders who openly discuss health, provide documentation of tests, and explain how they select breeding pairs. This helps support the long term health and sustainability of the Saarloos Wolfdog population.

## History & Origins

The Saarloos Wolfdog was created in the Netherlands in the first half of the twentieth century by Leendert Saarloos, a Dutch dog breeder with a deep fascination for wolves and working dogs. Saarloos believed that modern dogs, particularly German Shepherds, had lost some of the natural, robust qualities he admired. He set out to “reinvigorate” them by carefully introducing wolf blood.

In 1932, he crossed a male German Shepherd Dog, known for its trainability and working ability, with a female European wolf from a zoo. From this foundation, he selected offspring that showed the character and health qualities he wanted, and continued breedings over many generations. His goal was not simply to create a wolf hybrid, but to develop a stable breed that combined the wolf’s natural instincts, strong health, and endurance with the reliability of a domestic dog.

Initially, these dogs were tried as guide dogs for the blind. Their intelligence and stamina were promising, but their cautious, independent nature and natural tendency to avoid busy urban situations made them less suitable for the demanding role of a guide dog. They were also tested for police and military work, but once again their reluctance to confront conflict and their sensitivity to pressure limited their usefulness in those fields.

Over time, it became clear that the Saarloos Wolfdog had a unique character that did not always fit conventional working roles. Instead, they found their place as companions for knowledgeable owners who appreciated a more primitive type of dog. The breed gained official recognition in the Netherlands and was later named after its founder as a tribute to his life’s work.

The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) recognised the Saarloos Wolfdog as a distinct breed and placed it in Group 1, alongside herding and shepherd dogs, although the Saarloos Wolfdog is not typically used today as a herding dog. In its homeland and several other European countries, breed clubs were established to protect both the physical and mental characteristics of these dogs and to ensure responsible breeding practices.

Modern Saarloos Wolfdogs are still rare outside continental Europe, though interest has slowly grown in other regions. They are mainly kept as companion animals by experienced owners who can meet their special needs. Some are involved in activities such as tracking, search games, or low key outdoor sports that highlight their stamina and keen senses. However, their role remains more that of a natural companion than a specialised working dog.

Throughout their development, breeders and clubs have focused strongly on maintaining the breed’s natural appearance, athletic build, and reserved but nonaggressive temperament. Careful selection and controlled breeding have moved the Saarloos Wolfdog far beyond its early experimental roots into a recognised and distinct breed with a defined standard and a passionate community of enthusiasts.

## Living with the Breed

Sharing your life with a Saarloos Wolfdog is a long term commitment that touches almost every aspect of daily living. This is not a dog that easily adapts to every environment or lifestyle. Before bringing one home, it is important to be honest about your time, space, and experience.

The ideal home for a Saarloos Wolfdog is quiet, stable, and offers plenty of secure outdoor space. A large, well fenced garden is a real advantage. Fencing needs to be sturdy and tall enough to discourage climbing or jumping, and the bottom should be secure so that digging under is difficult. Many Saarloos Wolfdogs are curious explorers, and without proper fencing they may decide to go on adventures on their own.

City life is challenging for this breed. Constant noise, crowds, and busy traffic can be stressful, especially for naturally cautious individuals. A rural or semi rural setting, or at least a very peaceful suburb with access to nature, suits them much better. Daily access to fields, forests, or quiet walking paths allows them to relax and behave more naturally.

Time commitment is another key factor. A Saarloos Wolfdog needs:

- Multiple daily walks, often adding up to several hours of movement and exploration  
- Regular mental stimulation such as scent work, training games, and problem solving toys  
- Patient socialisation, especially during the first two years  

They are not well suited to households where everyone is away for long working days and the dog is left alone for many hours. While they can learn to be alone for moderate periods, they are very attached to their family and may become stressed, vocal, or destructive if consistently left with little company or activity.

Financially, potential owners should be prepared for the normal costs of a large breed dog, including quality food, routine veterinary care, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and insurance where available. Because health testing and responsible breeding are so important for this rare breed, puppies from ethical breeders can be more expensive than some popular breeds. Additionally, you may face extra costs for secure fencing, high quality equipment, and possibly working with a trainer familiar with primitive or wolfdog type breeds.

Useful equipment typically includes:

- A strong, escape proof harness and secure collar  
- A long line for safe exploration in open areas  
- Durable leads and sometimes double leads for added control  
- Sturdy, comfortable bedding in a quiet, private space  
- Enrichment toys such as food puzzles, slow feeders, and scent games  

Crate training can be helpful, but it should be introduced gradually and gently so the dog sees the crate as a safe den rather than a place of punishment. Many Saarloos Wolfdogs appreciate having a quiet corner or room where they can retreat when the household becomes too busy.

Social expectations also matter. Visitors must understand that the dog may not want to be touched or approached immediately. Some Saarloos Wolfdogs will remain aloof with guests for their entire life. This is normal for the breed and should be respected rather than forced. Teaching friends and family to ignore the dog until it chooses to come closer often results in more relaxed interactions.

Living with a Saarloos Wolfdog is not always easy, but it can be deeply fulfilling. You will share your home with a thinking, feeling animal that often responds to the world in a very natural way. If you are patient, respectful, and committed to understanding their unique needs, the Saarloos Wolfdog can become a loyal, observant, and quietly devoted companion who brings a touch of the wild into everyday life.

Saarloos Wolfdog

Saarloos Wolfhond Club Nederland

The Saarloos Wolfdog is a Dutch, wolf-like breed created from German Shepherd and European wolf. Sensitive, cautious with strangers and deeply loyal, it needs space, calm homes, careful socialisation, positive training and plenty of exercise, suiting only experienced owners.

Rottweiler vs Saarloos Wolfdog

Characteristics

Summary

Similar breeds