Saarloos Wolfdog

The Saarloos Wolfhond, originating in the Netherlands, also called Saarloos Wolfdog in English or Saarlooswolfhund in German, takes its name from its creator, a dog breeder based in Dordrecht, Leendert Saarloos (1884-1969), who made a cross between Fleur, a European grey wolf from the Siberian branch bought from Rotterdam Zoo, and Gerard, his German Shepherd. In 1936, the first litter of this cross was a failure since all puppies contracted distemper and died. Leendert Saarloos attempted a second litter in 1937, from which two females and one male were born, the latter also perishing from illness. Shortly after, in 1938, a third litter was born, from which a male emerged who served as the basis for the breed. From there, Leendert Saarloos began breeding with this male who held the potential for selecting this breed that he called the European wolfdog. Several specimens of these European wolfdogs proved satisfactory as guide dogs for the blind, suggesting that the European wolfdog had the utility skills sought by Leendert Saarloos. But the infusion of wolf blood undermined the breeder's objective. His European wolfdog proved poorly suited as a utility dog, particularly as a guide dog for the blind. Leendert Saarloos continued his work until his death in 1969. His widow, Mrs. Saarloos, and their daughter Marijke Saarloos subsequently continued his work. The Saarloos Wolfdog was recognized as a breed in 1975 by the Dutch Kennel Club, the Raad van Beheer op Kynologisch Gebied in Nederland, then in 1981 by the International Cynological Federation. The breed standard describes a dog not of utility but endowed with natural qualities.

The Saarloos Wolfdog belongs to Group 1 Sheepdogs and Cattledogs (except Switzerland) and more specifically to Section 1 Sheepdogs. Its coat is hard and straight, colored black, brown or cream. It has a height of between 65 and 75 cm for a male, and between 60 and 70 cm for a female. An average weight is estimated between 36 and 41 kg. Its almond-shaped eyes are yellow. Its nose is wide and robust. Its ears are erect and almost pointed. It has a well-visible collar and long legs. Moreover, its tail is low and carried saber-like. The Saarloos is a powerful dog, but with light movement. It presents a very typical gait reminiscent of that of a wolf.