How Big Are Wolves? The Biggest American Wolf Breeds

Connor Merritt

Wolves have roamed North America for thousands of years, their size varying based on region, climate, and prey availability. But just how big are wolves? And what’s the largest wolf breed in America? Let’s take a look. 

How Big are Wolves? 

The Grey Wolf – America’s Largest Wild Canine 

When most people picture a wolf, they’re thinking of the gray wolf (Canis lupus), the largest species of wolf found in North America. On average, these formidable predators can range from 60 to 145 pounds, with males typically outweighing females. Their length can reach up to 6.5 feet from nose to tail, and they can stand around 2.5 to 3 feet at the shoulder. 

Among gray wolves, the biggest of them all is the Mackenzie Valley wolf, sometimes called the Northwestern wolf. Found in Alaska and western Canada, these wolves are absolute units, with some individuals weighing over 170 pounds. That’s about the size of a fully grown Great Dane—except with a lot more muscle and a whole lot more bite. 

The Eastern Wolf – A Smaller Cousin 

The Eastern wolf (Canis lycaon), found primarily in southeastern Canada and parts of the Great Lakes region, is smaller than the gray wolf. These wolves weigh between 50 to 70 pounds on average and are slightly shorter in length. While not as imposing as their Northwestern cousins, Eastern wolves are still formidable hunters, often preying on deer and smaller mammals. 

The Red Wolf – A Wolf in Peril 

One of America’s most elusive and endangered wolves is the red wolf (Canis rufus). Native to the southeastern United States, red wolves are significantly smaller than gray wolves, averaging between 45 and 80 pounds. Though they once roamed widely across the region, habitat loss and hybridization with coyotes have pushed them to the brink. Today, only a few wild populations exist, primarily in North Carolina. 

The Biggest Wolf Ever Recorded 

While most gray wolves stick within their expected weight ranges, some truly massive individuals have been documented. The heaviest wild wolf on record was a Mackenzie Valley wolf that weighed an astonishing 175 pounds. That’s heavier than some adult humans. If that wolf had been any more famished, it might have given Duran Duran a real reason to sing Hungry Like the Wolf. 

How Big Are Wolves? The Bottom Line 

Wolves are among the most awe-inspiring predators in North America. While their sizes vary depending on the species and region, the Mackenzie Valley wolf reigns as the largest American wolf breed. Whether you’re tracking wolves in the wild or simply admiring them from afar, it’s clear that these incredible animals command both respect and fascination. 

Find the answers to more questions like, “how big are wolves?” on iSportsmanUSA.