Watching your dog grow from a playful puppy to a loyal adult companion is a bittersweet experience.
While their maturity and devotion are heartwarming, it’s easy to miss the days of boundless energy and wide-eyed curiosity.
For most dog owners, capturing these moments in photos and videos helps preserve those precious memories.
That’s exactly what Alyssa did with her beloved dog, Lupin. However, when she shared Lupin’s transformation online, the internet was completely stunned.
Meet Lupin
Lupin is no ordinary dog.
At five years old, Lupin is a striking blend of several rare breeds, making him a standout among pups.
Alyssa revealed to Newsweek that Lupin is a mix of German Shepherd, Alaskan Malamute, and Irish Wolfhound, with traces of other giant breeds—English Mastiff, Anatolian Shepherd, and Great Pyrenees—found further back in his lineage.
A Viral Transformation
When Alyssa posted a video showcasing Lupin’s growth over the years, the response was overwhelming.
The internet couldn’t believe the changes he had undergone—not to mention his unique and endearing orange beard.
“When he was a baby, he only had a few gray whiskers on his chin, which we thought might fall out,” Alyssa explained. “Ironically, they multiplied and grew into the patchy feathering you see today.”
A Gentle Giant
Despite his wolfish appearance, Lupin is as friendly and affectionate as any dog.
“He’s a big softy who loves meeting people,” Alyssa shared.
“He gets so excited that he rubs his face all over their legs, just like a giant cat. People often comment that he looks like a werewolf, which is quite fitting.”
Part of the Dire Wolf Project
Lupin’s striking appearance isn’t a coincidence—it’s part of the Dire Wolf Project (DWP), a specialized breeding program aimed at recreating the prehistoric Dire Wolf.
The program, founded by Lois Elaine Denny in 1967, sought to develop a breed that resembled the ancient wolf in both physical and temperamental traits.
Incorporating genes from several breeds—including German Shepherds, Alaskan Malamutes, Akitas, Anatolian Shepherds, and English Mastiffs—Denny spent decades carefully selecting traits to create a dog with the distinctive appearance of a Dire Wolf: upright ears, large yellow eyes, a choppy, wild-patterned coat, and a kind, loving demeanor ideal for companionship.
The result of her work is the American Alsatian breed, and Lupin is a proud representative.
Spreading Joy
Today, Lupin isn’t just a beautiful example of his breed—he’s also an ambassador for the Dire Wolf Project’s mission and a source of joy for everyone he meets.
Alyssa reflected on the unexpected popularity of her video: “It wasn’t planned, but it’s a joyful experience to see how many people’s days can be just a little brighter because they stumbled upon us.”
Lupin’s story is a reminder of the incredible bond between humans and their pets, and the unique charm that each dog brings to our lives—be it a playful puppy or a majestic, bearded giant.