The Dire Wolf Project™ was created by the National American Alsatian Breeder's Association™ in 1988.

The aim of the project is to breed a domesticated dog with the appearance of the extinct Dire Wolf. Health and temperament are the primary aspects the project strives for - achieving the desired appearance is a slow and steady process, as a new bloodline is often required to enter the mix every handful of years to allow for genetic diversity.

Remains of Dire Wolves (Canis dirus) have been discovered across the US, Canada and Alaska. These wolves roamed around 10 000 years ago and are believed to be the largest canine in existence. 

Dire Wolves were heavy boned, strong and highly intelligent creatures. By comparing injuries on skulls and bones to the animal's estimated age of death, it is believed that Dire Wolves cared for fatally wounded members of the pack. Sexual dimorphism was also minimal - this removed the need to physically compete for territory which reinforces their advanced intelligence and co-operative skills. This also lead to the belief that each animal only had one mate and that the pack operated as a tight 'family' unit. Along with the Dire Wolves' formidable and majestical appearance, the project aims to incorporate this level of camaraderie into the breed.

The Dire Wolf Project™ is continuing to perfect the breed and aims to accomplish this goal in the future.