12-054 Code Vt. R. 12-010-054-X - PRIMARY PHYSICAL & BEHAVIORAL WOLF CHARACTERISTICS

The following are some general characteristics common to wolves:

Wolves have large heads, long muzzles (distance from the eyes to the top of the nose), and proportionately larger canines than domestic dogs. Wolf eyes appear slanted when viewed head on and are most often yellow in color. Built for speed and agility, wolves are lanky with narrow chests, long legs, and large feet. They often appear "bonier" than domestic dogs. Their front legs are quite close together and front feet toe out. The rear legs of a wolf tend to be cow-hocked or turned in. While a domestic dog will often carry his tail curved up over its back, a wolf carries its tail straight out or down (a dominant wolf will sometimes hold it straight up). Wolves and occasionally some northern breeds of dog, have an obvious gland located halfway down the top of the tail. That gland called the supra caudal gland functions as a scent carrier. The size of the supra caudal gland varies from that of a dime to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. The hair covering the gland will usually contrast with the hair color of the tail and is often quite course. Wide tufts of hair often project outward and downward from a wolf's ears, framing the face.

In the wild, the wolf is a social animal, living in family groups, or packs. There are social hierarchies within the pack and being a dominant member is an important survival tool. Dominant animals rule with aggressive behavior, and wolves within packs will constantly test one another. Wolves will watch for signs of weakness in pack members or prey and take advantage of the weakness through aggressive behavior.

Wolves, because of the hunting instinct, are genetically programmed to track and pounce (seemingly without provocation) upon small, erratically behaving, vocalizing individuals who may, to the wolf, seem to be distressed. Small children often appear to a wolf to be distressed prey. Running or yelling on the part of a child can trigger a predatory response in a wolf. This instinctive response is almost impossible to alter through socialization or training.

Wolves are hyperactive compared to dogs and extremely curious or inquisitive. They may be shy around people and are extremely difficult to restrain. In the wild, wolves may range up to 30 to 125 miles per day and from a standing position can jump vertically 6 to 8 feet.

Notes

12-054 Code Vt. R. 12-010-054-X

Effective Date: May 13, 1995 (Secretary of State Rule Log # 95-34)