Which Nintendo game first gave Link the ability to transform into a wolf?

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess first gave Link the ability to transform into a wolf.

Released in 2006 for the GameCube and Wii, Twilight Princess begins with Link being drawn into the Twilight Realm. In that realm, he transforms into a wolf and later learns to shift between human and wolf forms. Midna, an imp-like character, accompanies him and helps him navigate the altered world.

Wolf Link has abilities that differ from human Link’s. He can use his senses to detect scents and hidden objects, dig in certain locations, and attack enemies with his teeth. These abilities are integrated into exploration and puzzle solving rather than serving only as a cosmetic change.

Link’s transformations in earlier Zelda games were different: Majora’s Mask offered several masks and forms, but not a wolf form. Twilight Princess made the wolf one of Link’s defining forms.