So I got a dog . . .

[reptileexperts]

Good for you!

I have worked with dogs since 1999, and have owed Presa Canarios and pit bulls since 2000 and 2001. I have been involved with protection dog training and trailing since that time and have a good bit of experience with working dogs in general.

One really nice thing about your hybrid will be the fact that the typical hip dysplasia seen in show bred GSD's will be negated or should be, by having the TW blood involved. Look up the Saarloos wolfhound and you will see the reasoning behind what that particular breeder was attempting to do. Most hip issues are brought on by human manipulation for certain appearance traits. Being a "working dog" enthusiast, I prefer function first.

Good call on getting a female with the makeup that you have going there. I'd say for a personal companion you'll be well setup though you may see some fairly aloof behavior having the TW mixed in.

I always recommend training and early socialization, but your dog doesn't have to be everybody's best friend. Just being yours, and your family's friend/companion is what is important. Keep with the leash laws, and crate your animal when you have company if you are concerned about any issues when it's an adult. Keep the dog very social in the early years though.

Congrats and enjoy!

Here's my wife handling our latest presa.

Yes to most all of this. I was concerned about hip dysplasia with any of the larger breeds, and when I heard wolfdogs are seemingly fixed from having this issue, it made me even more excited. Training is already started strong, and will continue. Because of the TW influence it has to be training based on respect and trust. Never hitting the dog, and using praise as constant reward for good behavior. During dinner its food down, eat a little, stop, sit, good girl, more food, repeat. It's going to be an incredible journey!