While there are hints of domestication in White Fang's lineage (his mother was a part-wolf, part-dog), he is primarily a wolf, and the book emphasizes his wild instincts and behaviors.
Here's a breakdown of why White Fang is considered a wolf, not a wolfdog:
* Genetic Makeup: White Fang is depicted as having a strong wolf lineage, with his mother being a "she-wolf" and his father unknown but assumed to be a wild wolf.
* Behavior: Throughout the story, White Fang displays classic wolf behaviors like howling, hunting, and pack dynamics. He doesn't exhibit the same level of trainability and domestication as a dog.
* Physical Appearance: While the book doesn't go into extensive detail about White Fang's physical appearance, it hints at his wolfish features, like his size, coat, and sharp teeth.
While White Fang may have some dog traits due to his ancestry, he is ultimately a wolf, and the story explores his struggles with adapting to both the wild and the domesticated world.