There is no definitive count of how many wolfdogs are misrepresented, but evidence suggests a significant number are sold as purebred or high-content wolfdogs when they are not. Causes include intentional misrepresentation by breeders, misunderstandings of wolfdog genetics, and simple lack of knowledge.
One study of 106 captive wolfdogs found only 33 percent were purebred, while the remaining 67 percent were mixed with other dog breeds or had no wolf content. Another study of 43 wolfdogs found only 21 percent were purebred.
Because there is no universal agreement on what percentage of wolf content defines a "true" wolfdog, determining exactly how many are fake is difficult. The most reliable method is DNA testing through a reputable genetic laboratory.