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SAARLOOSWOLFHOND |
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As a student of genetics, Leendert Saarloos studied various species, including several breeds of dogs. In the 1930s, Saarloos entered a cooperative effort with a Dutch zoo. He obtained a female wolf which he intended to cross with his German Shepherd, attempting to bring purebred dogs back to their "natural ability and stur-diness." His belief was that the domesticated dog had "degenerated" to an animal full of diseases and softness. He thought that the germs which were so debilitating and even fatal to dogs would not affect the wolf, but his theory was immediately proven wrong when the zoo animal succumbed to a virus. Fortunately for his program, the zoo provided another wolf, and his plan began to unfold. Over the years,
he selected for health and character from the wolf/dog progeny, breeding
the get back to German Shepherds. Despite setbacks, he persisted, seeking
the advice of a Dutch geneticist, Professor Hagendorn. Saarloos achieved
some small successes in using these "European Wolfdogs" as dog
guides for the blind. His faith in the breed was such that he also tried
to encourage their use as police and rescue dogs, but to no avail. He
fought a continual battle against the wild wolf characteristics of caution,
reserve and flight in his breeding program. Several thwarted attempts
were made to obtain recognition of the breed. Others noted his efforts,
but he discouraged their interest, wishing to monopolize control of the
program.
Saarloos died
in 1969 before his dream of a newly recognized breed was realized. Not
much improvement was attained until after his death when the genetic base
expanded. Other inter-ested
owners created a strong club and finally attained recognition from the
Dutch Kennel Club for these dogs in 1975. They honored the father of the
breed by changing the name to Saarloos-wolfhond. The association is very
strict in its requirements against hip dysplasia, spondylosis of tie spine
and other health and temperament problems. Casual breeding is discouraged.
Saarlooswolfhonds
are exceptionally strong-willed and do not take well to obedience or
schutzhund work. They are still pack-oriented and need a strong alpha
leader and a social atmosphere. Seclusion intensifies anti-social behavior,
and the dogs panic if locked in an enclosure. Owners must establish
the dominant alpha position, be willing to spend a great deal of time
with them and train with patience. The breed is quiet, seldom barking,
alerting homeowners in other ways. They do well in packs, with a leader
emerging and keeping order. Problems can occur, however, if a dog who
does not understand the established order is introduced to the pack.
The club's publication notes that most owners of the breed have at least
two to provide the necessary "pack." The Saarlooswolfhond
is not known outside the Netherlands.
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