Perhaps you’re a fan of a popular vampire series such as “True Blood” or “Twilight” and thought that having a wolf-like dog would be pretty cool. Well, according to The Boston Standard, dog breeds that are wolf-like are being increasingly abandoned.
The Jerry Green Dog Rescue in the U.K. has seen an increase in the amount of Huskies and Malamutes being given up or abandoned at its five centers. Numerous other animal charities and organizations have reported similar increases involving wolf-like breeds.
The rescue has even received several calls asking which dog breeds resemble wolves.
Jerry Green Dog Rescue Manger, Jo Hickson, told the Standard: “The organization as a whole is seeing an increase in Husky types, especially Malamutes. People take them on because they look wolf-like but then can’t handle them an we are getting more and more phone calls with people wanting to give them up.”
Huskies and Malamutes are known for their wolf-like appearance, but most people probably don’t know that these breeds are also higher-maintenance than other dogs. Huskies have an above-average energy level and there is no maximum to how much exercise they can handle (barring hot temperatures).
Since Huskies were bred to run and pull sleds, they need numerous hours of exercise each day and must have a task like guarding, sledding or hiking to be physically and mentally stimulated enough to be calm at home.
“I would always advise people not to pick a dog based on its appearance, as appearances can be deceptive,” Hickson added.
Huskies can also be very destructive if left indoors or without exercise for too long. The public seems to have a misconception about the breed, wanting them just for their appearance, but not realizing how much work goes into taking care of them.
“People think they look impressive to other people when they are walking them, so they are becoming a bit of a status symbol,” Hickson said.
Several reports seem to indicate that it won’t be long before huskies are flooding the market. Though Huskies are beautiful dogs, if you choose to adopt or rescue one, please be sure you’ll be able to take care of your new dog’s needs.
PHOTO: Alex Campos