How to care for your wolf (pet play version)
I see a lot of posts aboutĀ ācaring for your kittenā andĀ ācaring for your puppyā but there are definitely some major differences when taking care of a wolf. You can try these on other pets too, these tips are not only for wolves, but this post is wolf-centric. (this post is not just meant for owners in reference to their pet, some of these bullets can and should be used for pets toward their Alphas.)
Always have beef jerky handy. Beef jerky is a wonderfully tough snack that wolves enjoy taking their time to chomp and chew on. Not just beef jerky, but any snack that involves using their molars to tear the treat apart.
Give them space. Most wolves enjoy time to themselves, unlike kittens and puppies who enjoy constant attention. Just because they donāt want to be touched in that moment doesnāt mean they donāt care about you.
Distance ā dislike. Going back to the above bullet, just because some wolves enjoy time to themselves to do their own activities and figure things out, this doesnāt mean they love you any less. They enjoy solitude to collect themselves and relax. So try not to hover if they ask for space, because itās definitely nothing against you.
But donāt forget to show them affection too. Wolves are known to be stand-offish and sometimes cold, but they do have a soft spot and like to be pet, scratched, brushed, etc. (once trust is earned, that is.)
Take them for walks in the woods. While puppies and even some dogs might be domesticated enough to enjoy a walk through a suburban town, wolves need to get back to their natural element. Be sure to exercise them in the woods by climbing over fallen trees, running up and down hills, or even going in a creek/river.
Be patient. As I stated before, wolves can be stand-offish and cold, but that doesnāt mean they donāt want companionship. It will take time for a wolf to trust you, so take every chance to show them that you are trustworthy, but donāt rush it and donāt hover. You will smother your wolf and most likely scare them away.
Groom your wolf. Try to coax them into the tub for washing, to keep them clean and healthy. If they do not want you to wash them, then offer to brush your wolf, apply lotion, or even brush their teeth. Keep your wolf hygienic, while also respecting their boundaries. (this activity also serves as a bonding exercise.)
Stubborn, but not unteachable. Some wolves, no matter how reserved they may be, enjoy learning tricks. They enjoy a sense of accomplishment. It may take them a little longer to catch onto the tricks youāre trying to teach, but again, be patient with them and make sure to use treats as a reward for them.
Plan skill-worthy games. While some puppies like to play simple games like fetch, a wolf likes something more. Plan games that flex their brain muscle, like skill games. Trial and error until you find one your wolf likes, and once they get used to and learn that game, move on to the next.
Wrestle. Wolves can be violent creatures, and they enjoy a little physical release. So, (with permission, of course) grab your wolf, pin them down, throw them onto the couch, let them get out some of their aggression by fighting back against you. If you want to assert your dominance, a firm bite to the shoulder or back of the neck will put them in their place if they get too rough.
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