Irish Wolfhound - Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhound Temperament

One of the tallest and largest dog breeds in the world, the Irish Wolfhound has become known as the gentle giant. These dogs carry themselves with dignity, have an amiable and gentle disposition, and are always eager to please their owners. Although they do need plenty of space and attention, these dogs can make excellent family pets. The Irish Wolfhound is intelligent and a fairly quick learner, which can help to make training easier. These dogs can be very independent and, during the early years can also be destructive, making them best suited to owners with some experience of dog ownership. The Irish Wolfhound does need a fair amount of exercise, but whilst still growing care should be taken not to provide physical activity that may be too strenuous for him as he continues to grow. For older dogs daily walks and a safe, secured area in which to run will suffice.

The Irish Wolfhound is an easy going dog, and is friendly, sociable, and good with children - although do take care around smaller children because of his size. Although he may give chase with smaller animals that run, he tends to get along well with other animals in general. These dogs also tend to get along fine with strangers. The Irish Wolfhound is not an aggressive or suspicious dog, and this means that his skills as a watchdog do leave something to be desired, although his size along can serve as a deterrent. The gentle attitude of this breed means that early socialization is important to improve confidence and sociability. An affectionate and very loving breed, the Irish Wolfhound will make a good family pet for those with the space and the time to look after a large dog.
Irish Wolfhound Appearance

The Irish Wolfhound is a giant of a dog, and stands at around 30-34 inches for females, and 32-36 inches for males. The weight of the Irish Wolfhound is around 105-125 pounds for females and around 120-155 pounds for males. The Irish Wolfhound has a harsh, rough coat. The coloring of the coat can vary and includes brindle, black, white, red, fawn, and gray.
Irish Wolfhound Grooming

The grooming requirements for the Irish Wolfhound are moderate, and owners should brush and comb the coat of these dogs several times a week. The hair around the ears and eyes may need to be carefully trimmed occasionally. The Irish Wolfhound is a low to medium shedder, but with proper grooming shedding can be kept to a minimum, which can be helpful for those that suffer from allergies.
Irish Wolfhound Health Problems and Life Expectancy

There are a number of health problems to look out for with the Irish Wolfhound. This includes bloat, liver problems, heart problems, bone cancer, sensitivity to chemicals and drugs, vWD, OCD, PRA, HD, and cataracts. Whilst still growing the joints of the Irish Wolfhound can be susceptible to damage, which is why it is important not to provide exercise that it too strenuous. The life expectancy of the Irish Wolfhound, as with many other larger breeds, is relatively short at 6-8 years. The parents of the Irish Wolfhound puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.
Irish Wolfhound History

The Irish Wolfhound originates from Ireland, and was originally bred as a hunter for elk and wolves. In the past these dogs have been known by a number of names, including the Irish Wolfdog and the Irish Hound. They are even said to have been used in battle to try and dismount horsemen with their huge size and immense power. The breed was almost wiped out in the mid-1800s through famine. The Irish Wolfhound was registered with the AKC in 1897.

# AKAIrish Wolfdog, Irish Hound
# SizeGiant
# Ease of trainingMedium
# GroomingMedium
# SheddingLow/Medium
# Exercise neededDaily walks
# Energy levelLow
# ProtectionLow, however size can deter
# Good with childrenYes
# Health clearancesCERF, OFA, EKG, vWD
# Popularity77/155