Solid Hardwood, Engineered and Laminate Flooring - Hardwood finishes

I am buying a house that was built in 1958. It has oak hardwoods throughout that are in good condition. They appear to have a wax finish - definitely not poly. Prior to moving our furniture in, we plan to refinish them. Currently, our plan is to use wax to refinish, but I have a concern about the durability and protection that wax provides compared to poly, because we have two large dogs. Does the wax actually form a protective layer on top of the hardwood? I have heard that scratches are more easily buffed out of wax finishes - does anyone agree or disagree? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Wax only is a poor protective coating for a floor surface. I'll bet there is something on the floor, varnish, danish oil, or shellac. Test it in an obscure area: use a wax/degreaser or mineral spirits and some fine steel wool. After it has dried, wipe it over with a medium wet rag. In an hour or two when dried and it feels much rougher than the surrounding surface due to grain raising of the oak, then it was wax only. If the surface is still relatively smooth, then there was something other than wax applied.
In the long run, you will probably want to finish it it a polyurethane with your choice of gloss,semi, or satin. Do some research on both oil-based poly and water-base polycrylics. The water-base polys have come a long way.
Unfortunately, scratches are enevitable with doq(s), no matter what is on the wood. Believe me, I've got the biggest dog in the county.