Irish Wolfhound Overview

When viewing pictures of the Irish Wolfhound, it is easy to mistake it for a smaller dog. With excellent proportions and a strong stance, it has the appearance of a dog that weighs no more than 50 pounds. 

The reality is a huge one, to say the least. Standing around 30” and weighing around 120 lbs, some owners may be in for a rude awakening of great proportions. This is a dog that needs ample room to stretch its legs, and a large bed to lie on. Small spaces are simply not made for a dog this size, so apartments and town-homes are not in the cards. 

Grooming requirements are higher than normal, as its size makes for a lot of hair to brush. The breed does not shed, so periodic removal of dead hair is a must. It has the potential to cause destruction, but mostly as a result of its size and not its behavior. In fact, the Irish Wolfhound is the gentlest of giants, only appearing dangerous to unlearned individuals. 

Sadly, the average life expectancy of an Irish Wolfhound is only 5-7 years.

Irish Wolfhound History

Dating back to ancient times, it is said the Irish Wolfhound arrived in Ireland from Greece over 3,000 years ago. It also made its way to Rome, where the first official accounts of its existence were made. In the 4^th century A.D., the breed’s size and stature made it a symbol of Rome’s might, and it was used in arena sports and military activities. 

The Wolfhound’s reputation was similar in Ireland, where it was used in hunting large game and wolves. There are many visual descriptions from 18^th century Ireland, depicting similar dogs that were favored by Irish nobility and traded among diplomats. 

Irish Wolfhounds were too good at their job, leading to an extinction of wolves in Ireland in the 1700s. Making themselves obsolete, Wolfhound numbers declined to the point of near-extinction. 

The 1845 potato famine in Ireland would have been the killing blow for the Irish Wolfhound, but Captain G.A. Graham set out to preserve the breed. By mixing the remaining Wolfhounds with other dogs, such as Great Danes and Scottish Deerhounds, the breed was resurrected by 1870. Since then, the Irish Wolfhound has been admired for its regal stance and immense size.

Irish Wolfhound Character

The Irish Wolfhound is a sensitive, generally unproblematic breed. 

Training is not a walk in the park, but there are few habits that need to be broken. When training, focus should mainly be placed on self-control, so it is able to handle itself indoors. It is a polite animal that prefers to go with the flow. It needs daily exercise to stay healthy and happy, which is of high importance for large dogs. 

Already weighing in at over 100 lbs, it is difficult enough on the joints without having to deal with obesity. 

The Irish Wolfhound is very friendly and gentle with children and pets; and around other dogs it is equally well-behaved. The Irish Wolfhound makes a great guard dog, as its immense size will put off criminals-to-be, and it will defend its owner if necessary. 

The Irish Wolfhound is a gentle, easygoing and trouble-free dog .

Irish Wolfhound Care

Brushing and combing this dog regularly is a must. The Irish Wolfhound is an average shedder and the coat responds well to rubber brushing. Professional plucking of the coat may be necessary to remove dead hair. The beard of this breed must be cleaned regularly.

Irish Wolfhound Training

The Irish Wolfhound proves to be a fast learner and will quickly grasp what you want him to do making him very obedient. This breed requires firm but gentle training. He should be taught as a puppy not to pull on the leash at this breed is very powerful and it can prove to be a problem in the future.

Irish Wolfhound Health

Common Health Issues for the Irish Wolfhound:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Irish Wolfhound:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Irish Wolfhound Resources