Discover how closely your dog breed resembles its wild ancestor, the wolf. Select a breed to see its wolf similarity percentage and learn interesting facts about the connection.
The wolf-like percentages provided by this tool are subjective estimations derived from a blend of historical research, breed characteristics, and interpretations of available scientific studies on canine genetics and behavior. These ratings are intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not represent definitive or comprehensive scientific measurements. The methodology used reflects:
Please note that all percentages have been rounded to simplify the presentation. While every effort has been made to ensure the ratings align with current understanding, individual breed histories and genetic research are complex and continually evolving. For rigorous analysis or professional applications, please consult primary research publications and genetic experts.
The Dog-Wolf Similarity Calculator turns a common "How wolf-ish is my dog?" curiosity into a quick, data-driven snapshot. It blends three pillars—genetics, looks and behaviour—then averages them into an easy-to-read percentage. Below you'll learn what that number really means, which breeds score highest or lowest, and why (outside Siberia or São Paulo) every modern dog is still, at heart, a very good wolf-ish boi.
Dogs and gray wolves split from a common ancestor 15,000–40,000 years ago, yet they still share ~99.9 % of their DNA Scientific American. A 2013 whole-genome study showed domestication selected heavily for starch digestion and social traits, not core canid genes, leaving the two species almost identical at the chromosomal level Nature. That's why every breed on the calculator starts with a genetic baseline of "wolf," then moves up or down based on selective breeding.
Each sub-score is set on a 1–10 scale, multiplied by 10 for the display bar, then averaged to give the headline percentage shown on the meter.
| High Wolf-Score Breeds | Why they rank high |
|---|---|
| Alaskan Malamute | Arctic ancestry, strong genetic affinity to ancient Taimyr wolf Wikipedia |
| Siberian Husky | Indigenous Chukchi sled dog, minimal genomic drift Wikipedia |
| Belgian Malinois / German Shepherd | Working-line selection keeps primal drives and physique intact American Kennel Club, Nature |
| Saluki & Irish Wolfhound | Among the oldest sighthounds; morphology barely changed in millennia American Kennel Club, Nature |
Low-score sweethearts—French Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, Maltese—were refined for companionship; flattened muzzles, compact bodies and low prey drive move them far from wolf archetypes American Kennel Club, American Kennel Club.
Global note: Scores reference worldwide peer-reviewed studies, but wolf-dog laws differ. In some U.S. states or German Länder, even owning a F1 wolf-dog hybrid requires a permit Home—so always double-check local regulations before letting your inner wolf run wild.
No—these are still fully domesticated dogs. Genetic similarity doesn't equal wolf temperament; environment and training matter more
Samoyeds are ancient but were selected for friendliness and reindeer herding, reducing wild-type behaviours even if their coats scream 'Arctic' American Kennel Club.
No—the calculator's base data are global averages. What changes by country are legal definitions of 'wolf-dog,' insurance rules, and sometimes breed-specific legislation.