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Wolves are often kept as exotic pets or as working animals in colder countries. The subject of keeping wolves as pets is a tricky one as the rules are blurry because of the large number of hybrid wolf/dog breeds out there. Are wolves still a beautiful predator or are they becoming a wilder version of man’s best friend? What does UK law say about keeping wolves as pets and why would you want one as a pet in any case?

UK law

Wolves are classified as dangerous wild animals and thus it is illegal to keep one without a license – you will need to meet specific criteria such as experience, specific vet handling skills and a large enough secure enclosure. Part-bred wolves such as Timberlands are legal to keep in the UK as long as they are 3 generations down from the wild animal. If it’s simply the look you’re after something like a malamute or Northern Inuit will be much better suited as a pet.

Misconceptions

Although wolves may look cute and friendly they really are not. These animals are wild predators that hunt in packs with an innate killing instinct. If you have children then having a wolf in your home can be extremely dangerous. Wolves do not make good guard dogs as they hardly ever bark and they do not have a need to protect you. Wolves can howl at any time of day or night and they love to run, which means that they would not be suitable for a residential area – even hybrid dog/wolf breeds require a lot of attention and space.

Who keeps them as pets?

The laws about keeping wolves as working dogs differ from country to country.Wolves have been used as working animals in sledding countries and as attack dogs by defence forces. Wolves have also been used as an alternative to bloodhounds in search teams because of their keen sense of smell. However, due to the unpredictable nature of these animals, most attempts at using wolves as working animals have proved unsuccessful.

Tags: Pets & Pet Care