The coolest new dog on the block is the Lycan Shepherd. Some people say it looks like a black wolf, but it is so much more. The purpose of developing this new breed is to produce dogs that are loyal, extremely intelligent, and look like a wolf.
‘Lycan’ is from the Greek word ‘Lycos’ which means wolf. Lycan is a mythical creature that is very much like a werewolf with the exception that it can transform to it’s wolf-like state at will (not just during a full moon).
What is a Lycan Shepherd?
It is a cross between three other breeds: Blue Bay Shepherd, Belgian Malinois, and German Shepherd.
The Blue Bay Shepherd
Blue Bay Shepherds are a wolf dog and German Shepherd crossbreed. The founder of the Blue Bay Shepherd breed wanted to create a breed that had the intelligence and look of wolves with the human connection and loyalty of German Shepherds. The wolf dogs used in breeding this shepherd were five generations away from pure bred wolves. The result is a beautiful, large companion dog that is extremely affectionate.
The Belgian Malinois
A watchdog and protector, the Belgian Malinois is a working dog that is very loyal to its pack. They can range in size from medium to large. Belgian Malinois are easy to train and highly playful. They tend to be a great pet for a highly active owner.
The German Shepherd
Another working dog that is highly loyal. The long attention span, eagerness to please, and protective nature of the German Shepherd explains the wide range of responsibilities they can handle from herding to working as a service animal.
The Lycan Sheperd Project
The Lycan Shepherd breeding project started at the Gargoyle Kennels in Michigan under the mastery of the YouTuber referred to as “1st508th Airborne”.
Check out the 1st508 Airborne YouTube channel starting with this video on Lycan Shepherds:
Anticipated Characteristics of the Lycan Shepherd
Since the breeding project began relatively recently, it is too soon to observe consistent characteristics that would be attributed to the entire breed. So, here are some of the anticipated characteristics that Lycan Shepherds should have based on their genetic makeup:
Intelligence
Lycan Shepherds are anticipated to be extremely intelligent. With a large brain for their body size, it is anticipated that these dogs will be able to have a heightened ability to problem solve. High intelligence leads to high trainability.
Wolf-like Appearance
Their light brown to grey eyes are gorgeous and contrast to their dark coats. They have large heads with smaller ears than a German Shepherd. They are large dogs that weigh around 70-100 lbs.
Obedience
This breed is anticipated to be extremely loyal and highly trainable similar to the Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd.
Still Learning About the Lycan Shepherd
This breed is not a registered breed with the American Kennel Club as it is too soon in the development process. Although they were bred to be loyal family companions, it is possible that their sheer size and energy-level may make them less appropriate families with small children. Early training may be the key to reducing this potential.
Their protective nature may prevent them from being a candidate for a home that has many differing visitors. They may bark and show an aggressive façade to strangers. This can be countered by early socialization to other people and dogs.
The Unknown Aspects of The Lycan Shepherd
The lifespan as well as common health issues have not been determined yet. It is also not really well known if this breed is good with other house pets.
How can I get a Lycan Shepherd?
You can’t. At least not now. The breeding project is still on its way and this breed is unavailable to the public. Your best bet is to follow the 1st508th Airborne on YouTube for breed updates.
Conclusion
This is an exciting new breed to introduce to the world. The Lycan Shepherd is a beautiful, intelligent, loyal breed that can make a great companion.
