Breed Standard - MOVEMENT/
TROT Fluid movement and soundness are extremely important in this rugged, athletic breed. Like its close relative the wolf, the Wolfdog breed is an endurance trotter. When trotting, the Wolfdog’s gait should be sound, yet fluid. When viewed from the front, the legs are straight and never out at the elbow. As the animal speeds up it single tracks with smooth, flowing, elastic strides. It should have great reach, powerful drive and move in an even four beat. At a trot the top-line stays straight and near level, and never rolls or bounces. The neck is extended forward so the head is carried nearly level to the withers. The walk is unique to this breed and as in the trot, is always fluid and elastic. The hind legs should swing in the same line as the front, and the rear foot almost always falls in or very close to the spot the front foot has just vacated. The neck is usually extended so the head is carried relatively low. The walk is also an even four-beat. Both forms of movement indicated here cover great distances with each stride, and appear effortless. CLASS 1: rolling or bouncy movement; crossing over. CLASS 2: dual tracking; frustrated movement; goose-stepping gait. CLASS 3: displaying lameness, tracking difficulties or other abnormalities that interfere with proper movement.
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