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Red Wolf

Red Wolf is a medium breed from United States also known as Canis rufus, American Red Wolf.

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Breed overview

Red Wolf is a medium breed from United States also known as Canis rufus, American Red Wolf.

The world's most endangered wolf and one of the rarest mammals in North America. Declared extinct in the wild in 1980, they exist only through captive breeding programs with about 230 individuals total, including 15-17 in the wild in North Carolina.

People looking into Red Wolf usually prepare for Very High exercise needs, None grooming needs, 45–80 lbs • 24–26 in.

Canis rufusAmerican Red Wolf

History and origin

Red Wolf is tied to originating from United States, specifically Southeastern United States, with sources often placing its development around 300000 BCE.

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

The world's most endangered wolf and one of the rarest mammals in North America. Declared extinct in the wild in 1980, they exist only through captive breeding programs with about 230 individuals total, including 15-17 in the wild in North Carolina.

Browse dog breeds from United States

Quick facts

Size
Medium
Origin country
United States
Region
Southeastern United States
Origin year
300000 BCE
Weight
45–80 lbs
Height
24–26 in
Lifespan
6–7 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

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

MediumDenseReddish

Appearance and build

  • Medium-sized between gray wolf and coyote
  • Reddish-brown coat with black markings
  • Long legs and large ears
  • Narrow snout and yellow eyes

What this breed is known for

  • The world's most endangered wolf and one of the rarest mammals in North America. Declared extinct in the wild in 1980, they exist only through captive breeding programs with about 230 individuals total, including 15-17 in the wild in North Carolina.
  • Smaller than gray wolves but larger than coyotes, they're believed to be either a distinct species or a hybrid between wolves and coyotes. DNA studies show they carry unique genetic markers not found in other canids.
  • The only place red wolves exist in the wild today is the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge in North Carolina, where they were reintroduced in 1987. Their survival depends entirely on human conservation efforts.

Health and care notes

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

  • Genetic Bottleneck Effects
  • Hybridization Threats
  • Parasites

Coat details: Medium, Dense, Reddish

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

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Red Wolf come from?

Red Wolf is closely associated with United States, especially Southeastern United States in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Red Wolf get?

Typical size details for Red Wolf on this page are 45–80 lbs, 24–26 in, 6–7 years.

What is the Red Wolf known for?

The world's most endangered wolf and one of the rarest mammals in North America. Declared extinct in the wild in 1980, they exist only through captive breeding programs with about 230 individuals total, including 15-17 in the wild in North Carolina.

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. Red 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.