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Science

DNA Results: Controversial "Wolfdogs" in Connecticut Have No Wolf Ancestors

Connecticut Public Radio | By The Associated Press
Published April 25, 2014 at 10:39 AM EDT
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A Czechoslovakian wolfdog. The breed is sometimes used by European Police forces.
Wikimedia Commons / Creative Commons
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A Czechoslovakian wolfdog, a relatively new breed of dog from Eastern Europe. It is a cross between a German Shepherd and a Eurasian wolf.
Sonja Pauen / Creative Commons

Connecticut environmental officials said DNA tests on samples from seven animals in North Stonington showed that they are domestic dogs with no recent wolf ancestors.

The state responded to reports in March of hybrid wolfdogs attacking people and animals. Wolfdog hybrids are illegal in the state.

The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection said it's legal for the owner to have the dogs.

Environmental officials said that Ashbow Sebastian, the owner of the dogs, cooperated with the investigation. Officials said Sebastian, of North Stonington, agreed to allow DNA testing of the animals' saliva. Sebastian did not immediately return a call seeking comment.
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Federal funding is gone.

Congress has eliminated all funding for public media.

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The future of public media is in your hands.

All donations are appreciated, but we ask in this moment you consider starting a monthly gift as a Sustainer to help replace what’s been lost.

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