Saarlooswolfhond vs Mucuchies - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Saarlooswolfhond vs Mucuchies - Breed ComparisonMucuchies is originated from Venezuela but Saarlooswolfhond is originated from Netherlands. Both Mucuchies and Saarlooswolfhond are having almost same height. Mucuchies may weigh 16 kg / 36 pounds more than Saarlooswolfhond. Both Mucuchies and Saarlooswolfhond has same life span. Both Mucuchies and Saarlooswolfhond has almost same litter size. Both Mucuchies and Saarlooswolfhond requires Low Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Herding dogs
undefined
Venezuela
Netherlands
Height Male:
56 - 71 cm
22 - 28 inches
60 - 75 cm
23 - 30 inches
Height Female:
51 - 66 cm
20 - 26 inches
60 - 75 cm
23 - 30 inches
Weight Male:
46 - 61 kg
101 - 135 pounds
30 - 45 kg
66 - 100 pounds
Weight Female:
47 - 57 kg
103 - 126 pounds
30 - 45 kg
66 - 100 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 8
4 - 6
Size:
Large
Large
Other Names:
Paramo's dog , Venezuelan Sheepdog Dog of Páramos ( Snowy (Nevado)
Saarloos Wolf Dog, Saarloos Wolfhound
Colors Available:
all white or white with spots of other colors
cream, wolf-grey, white and red
Coat:
short coats smooth, medium-haired double coat
Shortish, dense
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal, Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Courageous, Intelligent, Loyal, Protective
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

mucuchiesThe Mucuchies are a breed born in the Venezuelan mountains, in the late 1700s. They are rare today but were popular in the mountains for hundreds of years. They are believed to be a cross between the dogs brought by the Spanish Conquistadors in the 14th and 15th centuries and the local dogs. However, by the 1960s this rare breed was close to extinction.

Bred primarily as herders and watchdogs, their ancestry likely included the Algerian Mastiff, the Spanish Mastiff, the Great Pyrenees, and the Atlas Shepherd, otherwise known as the Aidi. The early development of the Mucuchies is attributed to Wilender Ferrari, DVM. At the time, Simon Boliva was fighting for Venezuelan independence in the city of Mucuchies. He adopted a member of the breed and named it for the city. The name stuck as the name for the breed.

Later in this timeframe, the Mucuchies was crossbred with the Pyrenean Mastiffs that friars brought to the Andes from their monasteries. With them, they also brought the sheep for the dogs to herd and guard. During the 1920s the breed spread throughout the country, but by the beginning of the 1960s there was a major decline in the breed. This was partly due to changes in culture and lifestyle in the Andes.

In 1961 a Mucuchies club was formed for the breed preservation and the breed was formally named the National Dog of Venezuela. The club was disbanded in the mid-1960’s and this led the breed to the edge of extinction. By 2008 there was another major push to save the breed. This effort came from the government who wanted to preserve the breed. In 2008, they created the Fundacion Nevado and sent six Mucuchies to the Waraira Repano Cable Car System in the El Avila National Park so that the dogs would be in a climatic environment as similar to the Andes mountain as possible. This was successful and the program was increased by Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez.

As the breed continued to develop the shepherding instincts were lost and the guarding aspects were strengthened. This left today’s Mucuchies as a breed of gentle, active dogs with strong characters and a loving disposition. They are gentle with their families but protective and aggressive with strangers. They are the only native breed of Venezuela and currently, there are programs in the mountains to re-establish and strengthen them.

In addition to their name for the town of Mucuchie, the breed is also called the Paramo’s Dog or the Snowy. These programs exist because in Venezuela they are near extinction once again. This is the result of inbreeding and more cross-breeding, this time with larger dogs like St. Bernards. Thus, the continued efforts by the Nevado Foundation with the assistance of the government to restore the original Mucuchies breed to Venezuela.

saarlooswolfhondDutch breeder Leendert Saarloos began to breed German Shepherds to a European wolf. His goal was to bring out a dog that was more hard working.

The Dutch Kennel Club recognized this dog breed in 1975, and to give honor to the breeder, they gave the name to the dog - Saarloos Wolfdog. The dog was also recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale.

Today the Saarloos is regarded as a pet and companion. It was in 2015 that a study found that this dog showed more genetic association with the gray wolf.

Description

mucuchies puppy - descriptionThe appearance of the Mucuchies is that of a breed of large dogs who stand two feet at the shoulder and can weight one hundred pounds. They have a deep chest, heads that are wedge-shaped and skulls shaped like domes. Their muzzles are straight, and their nostrils are large on their black nose. The Mucuchies have dark eye and eyelids along with ears that are triangular in shape and medium in size. Their lips are black but this and he has a well-developed ruff.

They are large, sturdy dogs with a grand appearance and tremendous energy. Their neck is strong, short and very muscular with wide shoulders and a straight back. The tail is much longer than their hocks and it is shaped like a fan and he raises it when he is alerted. They have a short, thick coat and most are white or white with gray, honey or black. This is a very attractive breed.

saarlooswolfhond puppy - descriptionThe Saarloos Wolfdog is a large dog standing at between 60–75cm male and female and weighing between 30 and 45kg. He is athletic and muscular with a short, dense coat. Colors are wolf-grey, white and red. The Saarloos has wolf-like expressions so the ears are erect, the muzzle pointed and the tail long and plumed. They eyes are a yellow color. The face is bright and alert, showing how intelligent he is.

Temperament

The Saarloos Wolfhound is full of energy so will be looking toward his owner to come up with good exercise for him.

A walk will always be welcome, but for such a lively dog, he’ll want something more energetic such as a hike, swimming, being allowed to run off his leash in the park and lots of vigorous ball- and rope games.

He is an independent dog and for this reason you’ll want him trained and socialized to make him obedient. He is loyal and loving but some of his wolf-like characteristics might mean that he isn’t a good choice for the first-time dog owner. If the first time dog owner is firm, consistent, strong and kind, then everything will be alright.

Characteristics

Children friendliness

mucuchies dog - characteristicsGood with children and very good with their own families. Might be a little standoffish with others.

Special talents

They no longer have the strong herding instinct but are outstanding guard dogs.

Adaptability

Yes but need land to run in. Don’t put this giant dog in an apartment. You will both be miserable.

Learning ability

Very intelligent and their ability and willingness to learn is very good.

saarlooswolfhond dog - characteristicsThe Saarloos Wolfhound is a beautiful wolf-like dog that is full of life and energy. When you bring him into your life, you’re going to to have a wonderful addition to your family.

He is an independent dog that is strong-willed so it pays to have him trained and socialized, and then he becomes a balanced, well mannered dog that is loving and loyal with his beloved human family.

Health Problems

mucuchies puppies - health problemsBecause of their rarity and somewhat isolation, they do not have many genetic health concerns. They do however face at least a couple of the issues that most large dogs face.

Hip and/or Elbow Dysplasia

This can be a serious issue for such a large dog. It can cause arthritis and lameness.

Accidents

This might be the biggest threat to the Mucuchies’ health. They are big dogs and if they injury limbs it can be quite serious.

Bloat

The distension or inversion of the stomach and intestines is potentially fatal and must be treated immediately. Large dogs are prone to bloat and feeding schedules can go a long way in preventing it.

saarlooswolfhond puppies - health problemsA well bred Saarloos Wolfhound is regarded as very healthy, and with good care they can reach up to 12, 13, 14 or 15 years of age.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is a common canine disease which comes about when a dog’s hip joints don’t develop properly. For a dog diagnosed with hip dyslasia it can be painful lying down and getting around.

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition, but diet also plays a part as well as environmental factors. All dogs breeds are susceptible to hip dysplasia. Try and avoid your dog putting on too much weight as then it puts excessive strain on the joints. There are different treatment options to make it more comfortable for your pet.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the puppy

mucuchies dogs - caringAs mentioned in health concerns, feeding appropriately is critical to the Mucuchies’ health. Puppies need a high quality, large breed dry food 2-3 times per day at ½ cup each time. Don’t overfeed. Don’t exercise before or after eating to prevent bloat.

Feeding the adult

The adult Mucuchies should eat at least twice a day for a total of two and one-half cups. So, you might feed one and ¼ cup at each meal. Again, it is critically important that you don’t overfeed. Don’t feed before or after strenuous exercise and don’t let your Mucuchies eat too quickly in order to avoid bloat.

Points for Good Health

This is a large dog with generally very good health. His stamina and heart will impress you.

Games and Exercises

The Mucuchies is not an active inside dog, but he is a large dog that needs daily exercise. They need to be able to run or at least to trot. A large yard or dog bark is necessary. However, this big, double coated dog hates the hot weather and needs a cooler climate. Winter is fine with him. Don’t overwork them while they are growing. Walks are the best exercise for this breed.

Exercise:

saarlooswolfhond dogs - caringHe’s an active dog so he will need a good dose of exercise to keep that muscular, lean look.

Grooming:

You will need to brush the dense double coat twice a week to ensure the removal of loose hairs and to keep the coat shiny and glossy. Trim his nails and check inside his mouth as he can’t tell you when he has a rotten tooth which can cause a lot of pain.

Diet:

Feed puppies 4x a day.

Puppies 6 months on can have 2 meals a day.

Always feed your dog premium-quality dry food. Twice a week you can add home-made food to the dry kibble as a tasty treat. Add boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots. This food can all be chopped up and a portion added to the kibble. The rest can be frozen and then a portion warmed up for another meal.

Try and add some raw meat to his food occasionally as this helps to keep skin problems at bay.

Ensure there is always a bowl of fresh, cool water within his reach.

Your pet needs a warm, dry, comfortable place to sleep to call his own.

If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, make sure there is both shade and sun.

Spaying and Neutering – beneficial if you don’t want puppies.

Vaccinations for puppies and adults to stave off deadly canine diseases.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Mucuchies vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Mucuchies vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Mucuchies vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Mucuchies vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Mucuchies vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Mucuchies vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Mucuchies vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Mucuchies vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Mucuchies vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Mucuchies vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Mucuchies vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Mucuchies vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Mucuchies vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Mucuchies vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Mucuchies vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Mucuchies vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Mucuchies vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Mucuchies vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Mucuchies vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Mucuchies vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Mucuchies vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Mucuchies vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Mucuchies vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Mucuchies vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Mucuchies vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Saarlooswolfhond vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Saarlooswolfhond vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Saarlooswolfhond vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Saarlooswolfhond vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Saarlooswolfhond vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Saarlooswolfhond vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Saarlooswolfhond vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Saarlooswolfhond vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Saarlooswolfhond vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Saarlooswolfhond vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Saarlooswolfhond vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Saarlooswolfhond vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Saarlooswolfhond vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Saarlooswolfhond vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Saarlooswolfhond vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Saarlooswolfhond vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Saarlooswolfhond vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Saarlooswolfhond vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Saarlooswolfhond vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Saarlooswolfhond vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Saarlooswolfhond vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Saarlooswolfhond vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Saarlooswolfhond vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Saarlooswolfhond vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Saarlooswolfhond vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison