from what I understand you have to remain in the area not too far away from the wolf. The game will "despawn" the wolf if you go to far away, then "respawn" the wolf if you get close enough, thus pausing the taming process.

Making a little shack not too far away is the best way to make sure the taming process is going on, passing the night inside it also speed up the process.

Like Elenoe said, been too close will trigger the wolves, so stay at a safe distance