Is it possible wolfdogs are less susceptable to genetic diseases found in Domesticated dogs?

Question

The practice of breeding wolfdogs isn't new, but it's new enough and not popular enough to support mass puppy milling, furthermore the natural resilience required to live in the wild wolves posses seems to add weight to this hypothesis. Hip Dysplasia is very rare, though present, in wild wolves, however it is common in some domestic dogs. I also can't imagine that a mix from a reputable breeder would be afflicted with the mental and physical detriments brought on from millers and back yard breeders, so the question I pose, I think, is a valid inquiry.

Is it possible that wolfdogs represent a healthier, more resilient animal?

Added detail: To the first answerer, I never said anything about them being pets, nor am I talking about wolves.

You really didn't seem to read the question.

But aren't they illegal?

Different areas have different laws. I know that they are 100% legal and considered domesticated dogs in Ohio.

I also noticed all three of you are down voted. I don't know who did that or why because two of you provided valuable replies. I cannot vote yet, or I'd up vote you. -Shrug.-

Answer 1

It is highly likely, it seems to me. Since pure most pure breed dogs recognized by AKC, for example have closed stud books, all the current breedings are being done from the same original pool. Without an organization of standarization like AKC behind it, it is more likely that people who breed wolf hybrids are using a larger base, therefore less likelihood of duplicating genes for defects.

Answer 2

I don't believe they would be. A person who had an excellent, genetically healthy purebred would be using it to improve the breed. Those who breed wolf hybrids generally don't have those dogs. So the offspring would share the genes of the genetically inferior purebred.

Even if they were healthier, they are not appropriate as pets. People get them because they have a high "cool" factor, then don't know how to handle the wolf traits. They have an extremely high prey drive, they're escape artists, and they're completely miserable in most homes.

The sanctuaries who can accept these dogs when the owner realizes they can't handle one are completely overwhelmed. Volunteer at one for a while and you'll see why the hybrids shouldn't be bred and sold.

Answer 3

They might be healthier, but a lot more unstable. I've met a few wolfdogs myself, all of which have been total sweethearts but also very shy and could do a lot of damage if pushed to their limit which I assume isn't very far... If bred with a dog breed that had EXCELLENT temperament and were raised properly with immense socialization I'm sure that they would be perfect!

But aren't they illegal?
If so, I think they should stay that way. The love they can give is immense, but there are too many people out there just getting dogs for looks and treat them so improperly. It's rather sad...