Pet Wiki

Volkosob

Also called Volkosoby, Perm wolfdog, Russian wolf-dog hybrid

CrossbreedShort profile

From Russia (Perm)12

At a glance the quick version

Sizelarge
outstanding scenting ability
great stamina
tolerance of extreme temperatures
12

Coat and looks how to spot one

long thick coat

A well-muscled wolf-dog hybrid with a long, fluffy coat.1

Personality what they are like

The Perm project dogs were described as obedient and gentle with their handlers and focused and steady while working.12

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Developed as a working dog for tracking and search tasks and able to work for very long periods, so it needs a demanding job and experienced handling.21

The story where it all began

The volkosob comes from a breeding programme at a Perm institute in Russia that started with a sociable she-wolf named Naida and a German Shepherd. Over about 16 years the project produced dozens of hybrids across several generations, intended for detection and border work.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    The programme began with a single unusually friendly she-wolf named Naida.2

  2. 2

    Handlers reported that volkosobs could find a hidden person in a room in about 20 seconds, far faster than the shepherd dogs they were compared with.1

  3. 3

    Some of the dogs were put to work along Russia's borders with China and Mongolia.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name 'Volkosob' comes from the Russian words 'volk' (wolf) and 'sobak' (dog), literally meaning 'wolf dog'.3

Famous ones stars of the breed

Name ideas for your new friend

VolkRuslanSiberTrackerNikaBorisShadowZimaOdinTaigaKiraYuri

A day in the life told by a Volkosob

This morning, my handler clipped on my lead and we headed into the forest. I love the scent of pine and damp earth. We walked for hours, following a trail only I could smell. When I found the lost hiker, I sat and gave a steady bark. My handler patted my head and said, 'Good work, partner.' Later, we rested by a stream. I lay in the cool water, watching clouds. At home, I curled by the fire, tail thumping. Another good day.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Kennel clubs
Not officially recognised as a breed1

How many 46 hybrids produced across five generations during the Perm programme1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Volkosob. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Volkosob, and at what times?

Adult Volkosobs should have at least two meals a day, as their stomachs empty within a few hours. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Furry Diary's starting plan is to feed at consistent times each day, and you can check the food label and your vet for exact amounts.5 Pet Wiki plan

What should a Volkosob eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suitable for active, working breeds. Dangerous foods for dogs include grapes, raisins, chocolate, xylitol, onions, garlic, and macadamia nuts, keep these away from your Volkosob. Always ask your vet for a diet tailored to your dog's needs.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often should I bathe a Volkosob?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, which is about every two months. General guidance says at least every three months, but you can bathe more often if your Volkosob gets very dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to keep the coat healthy.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Volkosob need brushing?

With a long, thick coat, daily brushing is ideal to prevent mats and tangles. Furry Diary's starting plan recommends brushing at least once a week, but more frequent brushing will keep that fluffy coat looking its best. Your Volkosob will enjoy the bonding time too.17 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Volkosob's nails, and how often?

Trim nails about every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part inside). If you're unsure, your vet or a groomer can show you how.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Volkosob need?

This is a working dog bred for long, demanding tasks, so it needs plenty of daily exercise and a job to do. Furry Diary's starting plan includes daily walks and play, but experienced handling is important to channel its energy. A tired Volkosob is a happy Volkosob.21 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Volkosob's teeth and ears?

Brush your Volkosob's teeth at least every two days, daily is ideal, using a dog toothpaste, never human toothpaste. Check ears weekly and keep them dry, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal; just wipe the outer part gently.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Volkosob live?

Lifespan varies for each dog and depends on genetics, diet, and care. For a specific estimate, please ask your vet or the breeder who knows the bloodline. Regular vet checkups help ensure a long, healthy life.

Is a Volkosob good with children and other pets?

Volkosobs are described as obedient and gentle with their handlers, but their temperament with children and other pets depends on early socialization and training. Since they are wolf-dog hybrids with strong working instincts, it's best to ask a breeder or experienced trainer for guidance.12

Can a Volkosob be left alone?

This breed was developed for close teamwork with handlers and may struggle with long periods alone. They need a demanding job and companionship, so leaving them alone for extended hours is not ideal. Consult a good breeder for advice on your specific situation.21

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

You might also like

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Wikipedia (ru): Волкособ ru.wikipedia.orgused for history, appearance, temperament, recognition, facts, numbers
  2. Oddity Central: Volkosoby, the wolf-dog hybrids bred to defend Russia's borders odditycentral.comused for history, traits, facts
  3. creatures.com creatures.com
  4. bashny.net bashny.net
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.