Federal classification of wolf x dog crosses is very clear. It states that the classification for wolf x dog crosses is "domestic." According to the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 9, Chapter 1, Part 1: "Hybrid Cross" means an animal resulting from the crossbreeding between two different species or types of animals. Crosses between wild animal species such as lion and tigers, are considered to be wild animals. Crosses between wild animal species and domestic animals, such as dogs and wolves or buffalo and domestic cattle, are considered to be domestic animals.

Not all states recognize the federal classification. Each state has the ability to set its own classification for wolf x dog crosses. In some states wolfdogs are considered to be dogs, whereas other states classify them as dangerous wild animals. There are states where wolfdogs can be legally owned, but cities and counties are allowed to enact breed specific ordinances that makes them illegal within that particular jurisdiction. Therefore, one should determine that wolfdogs can be legally owned within their state. If they are not prohibited by State law, then one needs to also check for any County and/or City Ordinances which might prohibit the ownership of wolfdogs.

Wolfdog Issues and Links by State

NWA - Links by State

Florida Lupine Association

Exotic Pets Legal Issues, Laws

National Animal Interest Alliance

State Statutes By Topic

Texas Sources of Information

U. S. Fish & Wildlife - Forensics Laboratory

Paw Law - Dog Training Academy

Summary of State Laws Relating to the Private Possession of Exotic Animals

First Click to the U.S. Government

Texas Department of Health - Zoonosis Control

Texas Issues

Dog Bites

Wolves are shy by nature and when at all possible, they will avoid humans. There has never been a documented case where a healthy wild wolf has killed a human in North America during the last century. Nevertheless, because society has been raised since early childhood on stories such as the "Big Bad Wolf," and "Little Red Riding Hood," many believe that an animal is viscous simply because it is part "wolf." Unlike many dogs, a wolf will usually tell you what he is going to do long before he does it. Therefore, it is important to know how to read a wolf's body language.

What's in a Howl?

Reading and Understanding Canids

Body Language, Tail Position

The Canine Good Citizen Test

Body Language - Pictures

A Word about Aggression

Wolf Hybrid Behavior

 

Approximately 70% of the fatal dog bites between 1997 and 1998 were to children. Statistics show that boys are more likely to be bitten than girls. Dogs often will view a child as being a playmate or an equal because of their size. In other instances, direct eye contact may be taken as a challenge, or shrill screams or running by a child can trigger prey drive within any canine.

The Sacks Report

Dog Bite Victims

Behavior Problems - Canine Aggression

World Small Animal Veterinary Association 

Dog Owners Guide - Canine Aggression

 

All dogs will bite. The breeds of dogs usually found in wolf x dog crosses, are listed as being the 3rd, 4th, and 5th breeds of dogs involved in severe bites. The size of the dog involved in a bite incident often determines the severity of the bite. Wolf x dog crosses are large canines and when any large dog bites someone, the bite will probably be severe. Unfortunately, most incidents involving dog bites could have been avoided.