Wolf-Dogs Are Illegal in Michigan

As an owner of a shelter pitbull mix, I can tell you that I was shocked to learn that a breed of dog had been banned in Michigan. I'm a firm believer that there are no bad dogs, just dogs that were raised and mistreated. That said, when I realized the breed that was banned, I became slightly less defensive and more astounded that people would want one in their house.

The breed in question is the wolf-dog. And if you, like me, had no idea what a wolf-dog is, here's a somewhat brief explanation.

What Makes Wolf-Dogs So Dangerous?

Photo by Aldo Houtkamp on Unsplash

According to Kinship.com, wolves and dogs already share 99% of their DNA. It's that 1% difference that turns your toddler from a childhood friend into a potential meal. Wolf-dogs are said to be bred between a wild wolf and a domesticated dog.

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The result is an animal that may share the same size and behavior as a domesticated dog, but it's also more self-sufficient than typical pets. It has a drive to provide and protect itself. If it views you, a member of your family, or a friend as a threat (or food source), wolf dogs have a mind of their own and the potential veracity of a—well, a wolf.

Photo by Wild Spirit on Unsplash

I'm not sure about you, but being under the same roof as an animal that looks at me the way I look at a steak would make relaxing very difficult. That said, I know some Michiganders who could look at a snarling, drooling, and ready-to-pounce wolf and think, "What a cute puppy, I wanna pet it!"

Michigan’s Wolf-Dog Ban Explained

This may be why, according to Kershaw, Vititoe & Jedinak, PLC, Michigan passed the Wolf-Dog Cross Act of 2000, which prohibits ownership and possession of wolf-dogs, although some may have been grandfathered in.

Why Wolf-Dogs Gained Popularity

An uptick in the wolf-dog breed came as a result of Game of Thrones, though it still remains active today for those who want to own a piece of the wild or feel closer to their 'spirit animal.' To each their own, though I prefer not living with an animal that could kill me. I'm funny that way.