I have always thought that a German Shepherd dog strongly resembles a Wolf. So much about them looks similar – the sharp, pricked-up ears, the shape of face, the long nose, the bushy coat and tail. The intelligence of both is certainly comparable.
Big Bad Benji…just one of my Sheps
We have had 5 German Shepherd dogs (amongst the rest of our menagerie), and have only stopped due to our own physical limitations as we get older. Other wolf-like breeds have been beyond our financial capabilities – but I love them from afar.
Strangely enough, given the many similarities between wolves and German Shepherds, it was quite a shock to me to learn that there are 14 breeds of ancient domesticated dogs who ‘show the fewest genetic differences from wolves’ – and this list does not include German Shepherd, who are considered a ‘modern’ breed, dating back to only 1899. Unbelievable!
And these breeds include the most unlikely canines, like the Collie and Greyhound, the Bull Mastiff and the Afghan hound. It’s truly amazing.
Actually, it’s a mystery to me why I feel so drawn to Wolves and everything about them. I just know that I most sincerely love the dogs that resemble wolves in some way. And stories and legends about Wolves – and their symbolism, as celebrated in different ancient cultures.
I love being challenged by my beautiful ‘Snow-Wolf Eyes’ that I use as my avatar often. How am I challenged by them? Well, on the cover of my main writing folder, I have a blow-up photo that clearly shows the magical blue that they are, along with the words – ‘IF Not Now….Then When?’ Look -
I have a wonderful book called ‘Women who Run with the Wolves‘ by Clarissa Pinkola Estes, and of course an ageing video copy of the Kevin Costner film, ‘Dances With Wolves‘.
A never-ending fascination is with the Alpha Male and Female supremacy struggles that may have started in the wolf world? I don’t know about this. But I do know that it exists in all the varieties of animals I have had the joy of being involved with. From hens to bulls; from cats to canaries; from dogs to pigs – it seems all have the necessity to prove who’s boss – and the preparedness to fight for the honour.
Come to think of it…are humans actually different, either? Food for thought, as we take a closer look at those around us – or those we have known. And maybe…just maybe…we should take an ‘up close and personal’ look at ourselves, as well.
Just found this beautiful thought on a website all about wolves -
… by Debra McCann
Hmm-mm-m…..I love that (even if I haven’t any American Indian blood!)
PS: (Sorry the photo is of such poor quality – unfortunately, this close up of Benji was only a small part of a much larger image that included a superb hay cut, and a lot of glorious blue sky).
