Lobo and Me, by Sal Del Gaudio

This book is quite a bit different from other wolfdog books I have read in that it really focuses on the unique spirit of wolfdogs. There is certainly some coverage of the challenges of living with wolfdogs, but it really more about the story of Lobo and his owners' spiritual journey with him. It may be best suited to people more interested in the spiritual aspects of wolves and wolfdogs than the practical advice about living with wolfdogs.

"Lobo and Me" is an emotional book, and the author's affection and respect for his wolfy companions is clear through his writing. It covers the life of an alpha male wolfdog, Lobo, from the time his human companions rescue him to the end of his life and beyond. Included is the addition of a female wolfdog to the pack. It is truly a spiritual journey, and a spiritual outlook is will help the reader appreciate the extraordinary aspects of this book.

The author definitely has strong opinions -- some related to wolfdogs (including a very strongly opinionated commentary in an addendum), and some not. Some readers will disagree, although the author has strong feelings and should be credited for standing up for his beliefs when it comes to wolfdogs and breeding. Some of the traits attributed to the wolfdogs are extraordinary but might induce skepticism rather than awe (and in my opinion, some of the wonderful traits attributed to wolf content in this book are sometimes seen in other dogs). Also, I was a bit concerned that some of the snippets of information about the diet of these wolfdogs (which included lots of ice cream, apparently) might give other owners incorrect ideas about complete diets.

Despite my sometimes mixed feelings about the book, my overall feeling was that it is a poignant tribute to Lobo.