welcome to SM , you will find that for a new user this is a great resource for info.
A running wolf seems a little optimistic for a new user since you are going to have to learn not only to model well ( i'm talking good topology for good deformation) but to UV map and texture and also to rig the character and animate it.
Pretty much the whole show in one go, however if you game im willing to help with questions and problems you face and i know several other will too. By the way what is the timeline for completion of the wolf ? ...Good luck with the project too.