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Mexican Wolf

Mexican Wolf is a medium breed from Mexico also known as Lobo, Canis lupus baileyi, El Lobo.

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Breed overview

Mexican Wolf is a medium breed from Mexico also known as Lobo, Canis lupus baileyi, El Lobo.

The most endangered subspecies of gray wolf in North America and the smallest wolf subspecies. Extinct in the wild by 1980, they were saved from complete extinction by capturing the last 5 individuals for captive breeding.

People looking into Mexican Wolf usually prepare for Very High exercise needs, None grooming needs, 50–80 lbs • 24–32 in.

LoboCanis lupus baileyiEl Lobo

History and origin

Mexican Wolf is tied to originating from Mexico, specifically Southwestern North America, with sources often placing its development around 300000 BCE.

Mexican Wolf is described here as marked as an wild breed.

The most endangered subspecies of gray wolf in North America and the smallest wolf subspecies. Extinct in the wild by 1980, they were saved from complete extinction by capturing the last 5 individuals for captive breeding.

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Quick facts

Size
Medium
Origin country
Mexico
Region
Southwestern North America
Origin year
300000 BCE
Weight
50–80 lbs
Height
24–32 in
Lifespan
6–8 years
Breed status
Wild

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
5 / 5
Trainability
1 / 5
Good with children
1 / 5
Shedding level
3 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
Very High exercise needsNone grooming needsChildren score: 1/5Trainability: 1/5

Coat and classification

Mexican Wolf is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

MediumDenseDesert Adapted

Appearance and build

  • Smallest gray wolf subspecies
  • Gray and rust-colored coat with distinctive facial markings
  • Long legs relative to body size
  • Large ears and narrow snout

What this breed is known for

  • The most endangered subspecies of gray wolf in North America and the smallest wolf subspecies. Extinct in the wild by 1980, they were saved from complete extinction by capturing the last 5 individuals for captive breeding.
  • All current Mexican wolves descend from just 3 lineages, making genetic diversity a critical concern. Despite successful breeding programs, only about 186 exist in the wild today in Arizona and New Mexico.
  • Known as 'El Lobo' in Mexican folklore, they were historically important in Aztec and other indigenous cultures. Their reintroduction has been controversial among ranchers but critical for ecosystem restoration in the Southwest.

Health and care notes

Mexican Wolf is noted here for Very High exercise needs and None grooming needs.

  • Genetic Bottleneck Effects
  • Parasites
  • Injuries

Coat details: Medium, Dense, Desert Adapted

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Mexican Wolf come from?

Mexican Wolf is closely associated with Mexico, especially Southwestern North America in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Mexican Wolf get?

Typical size details for Mexican Wolf on this page are 50–80 lbs, 24–32 in, 6–8 years.

What is the Mexican Wolf known for?

The most endangered subspecies of gray wolf in North America and the smallest wolf subspecies. Extinct in the wild by 1980, they were saved from complete extinction by capturing the last 5 individuals for captive breeding.

Sources and citations

References below include supporting background links. Official kennel-club coverage can be limited for mixed, regional, or less widely recognized profiles.
  1. Mexican Wolf reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.