How to Train Wolf Hybrid Puppies

By Deana Case

Instructions

Step 1:
Socialize your puppy. Careful and early socialization to a variety of people and places is mandatory for any puppy. Do not flood the puppy with large crowds, pushy dogs, screaming children or prolonged periods of chaos. Keep introductions to new things brief, start small. Introduce them to several new people on a one on one basis at first. Then try having him with a group of people. Go slow. Add intensity as confidence grows.
Step 2:
Keep a journal of new experiences and your puppy's reaction to them. Note the things that caused him to withdraw or become stoic. Reduce the amount of intensity in these situations if your puppy is fearful. Wolves differ from dogs in their ability to accept new things into their world. If you push too hard, too fast, you can actually cause fears where there was once only caution. Fears often lead to aggression.
Step 3:
Provide a consistent environment for your wolf hybrid puppy. Contain him in a safe area when you cannot supervise him. Feed him at the same times daily. Offer a consistent exercise schedule, and many opportunities to socialize with both familiar and new situations.
Step 4:
Know that crate training done properly is good for a dog. The crate becomes a place of solace, and makes traveling, vet visits and grooming appointments less traumatic for your puppy.
Step 5:
Teach your wolf hybrid puppy basic manners using a positive motivation technique such as clicker training. Group classes are OK, but if your puppy is shy or very reactive, seek private instruction.
Step 6:
Begin practicing away from home once your puppy can respond correctly to basic obedience cues most of the time at home or in other low distraction environments.

Tips & Warnings

Educate yourself about this breed before accepting responsibility for a wolf-dog.
Exercise your dog daily with a rigorous run.
Keep training low key, positive, and fun.
Some communities do not allow wolf-dogs, be sure you live in an area that allows them.

Resources

Purchase wolf hybrid training books at Phantom Publishing.

Photo/Video Credit

Photo courtesy of Daniel Majewski http://www.sxc.hu/photo/467604

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