an Irish Wolfhound on grass

Introducing the Irish Wolfhound

Find out everything you need to know about the Irish Wolfhound: its characteristics, its behavior, its education, its price.

The Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound, the gentle giant

an Irish Wolfhound in nature

Originating from ancient Ireland, the Irish Wolfhound was bred for hunting large game like deer and wolves. Today, they are valued for their gentle and friendly nature.

Known for their bravery and versatility, Irish Wolfhounds excel as companions, therapy animals, and in canine sports. Despite their large size, they are incredibly loyal, affectionate, and sociable, making them beloved pets.

IRISH WOLFHOUND FACT FILE

This section outlines the unique features of the Irish Wolfhound breed.

Group

The Irish Wolfhound belongs to the Hound Group, known for their exceptional hunting abilities and calm temperament.

Size

Irish Wolfhounds are giant dogs, standing 32 to 34 inches tall and weighing 115 to 180 pounds.

Coat length

They have a dense, wiry coat that offers protection from harsh weather.

Coat color

Their coats can be gray, brindle, red, black, white, or fawn, with various shades within these colors.

Living environment

Irish Wolfhounds need large spaces and thrive best in environments where they can exercise freely.

Sociability

Friendly and sociable, Irish Wolfhounds are great with children and other animals.

Health

Generally healthy, they can be prone to hip dysplasia and heart conditions, so regular vet check-ups are essential.

Training

Gentle and intelligent, Irish Wolfhounds are easy to train with kind and patient methods.

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Physical characteristics

The Irish Wolfhound, a majestic and loyal companion

Irish Wolfhounds are massive, well-proportioned dogs with a commanding yet gentle appearance. They have a wiry coat that often comes in gray, brindle, red, black, white, or fawn. Their expressive eyes and long, narrow face give them a noble look.

Size and weight of the Irish Wolfhound

an Irish Wolfhound in profile in a field

The Irish Wolfhound is among the largest dog breeds. Females typically stand between 30 and 32 inches, while males reach 32 to 34 inches. Females usually weigh between 105 and 140 pounds, and males range from 140 to 180 pounds.

Irish Wolfhounds grow rapidly, especially in their first year. By six months, they can weigh as much as 100 pounds, and they usually reach their full size and weight by 18 to 24 months.

The coat of the Irish Wolfhound

detail of the head of an Irish Wolfhound

Coat length

Irish Wolfhounds have a medium-length, wiry coat with a dense texture, providing a rugged appearance and protection against harsh weather.

Coat color

Their coat comes in gray, brindle, red, black, white, and fawn, giving them a distinctive and noble look.

an Irish Wolfhound in profile opening its mouth

Coat care

Irish Wolfhounds shed moderately year-round, with increased shedding during seasonal changes. Brush their coat two to three times a week to manage shedding and prevent tangles. Bathing every few months keeps their coat clean and healthy.

Other characteristics of the Irish Wolfhound

an Irish Wolfhound running on grass

Physical features

The Irish Wolfhound is a balanced, well-proportioned dog. It has a long, narrow head with dark, oval eyes and high-set, small ears. The body is muscular with a deep chest and strong legs, complemented by a long, slightly curved tail.

Temperament & behavior

What is the temperament of the Irish Wolfhound?

Irish Wolfhounds are loyal, gentle, and affectionate. They are protective yet friendly, making them excellent companions.

Irish Wolfhound category

two Irish Wolfhounds together

There are around 400 registered dog breeds, divided into 10 groups. The Irish Wolfhound belongs to the Hound Group, which includes hunting dogs like Greyhounds and Beagles. Hounds are known for their keen instincts and intelligence. Irish Wolfhounds are particularly gentle and affectionate, excelling as loyal companions.

Behavior of the Irish Wolfhound

an Irish Wolfhound on its back being cuddled by its owner

A loyal companion

Irish Wolfhounds are gentle, affectionate, and devoted to their owners. They thrive with a present and attentive owner.

an Irish Wolfhound with a person's hand on its head

A friendly and sociable dog

Highly sociable, Irish Wolfhounds get along well with people and other animals. They are great with children and benefit from early socialization.

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The Irish Wolfhound's living environment

an Irish Wolfhound walking on grass

Adaptable but attentive

Irish Wolfhounds can live in apartments, houses, urban, or rural settings but need significant attention. They require at least two half-hour walks daily.

Room to roam

Irish Wolfhounds thrive with outdoor space to explore and expend energy, benefiting from environments that cater to their size and curiosity.

Training the Irish Wolfhound

an Irish Wolfhound sniffing someone's hand

Easy learner with intelligence

Irish Wolfhounds are intelligent and learn commands quickly. Their training should focus on positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency. Using a GPS collar is advisable to prevent losses or escapes, ensuring their safety.

an Irish Wolfhound lying on the grass

Listening and unique training needs

Irish Wolfhounds have good listening skills and respond well to gentle, praise-based training. Early socialization is crucial for developing their friendly nature and good behavior.

Health & nutrition

How to take care of the Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhounds are generally healthy but require daily care to prevent diseases and infections.

The health of the Irish Wolfhound

an Irish Wolfhound with a face full of snow

Illnesses

Irish Wolfhounds are robust but can suffer from hip dysplasia, heart disease, and bloat. They typically live 6 to 8 years.

an Irish Wolfhound lying in its basket

Routine care

Regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite treatments are essential. Daily care includes brushing, ear cleaning, dental hygiene, and nail trimming. The Irish Wolfhound is not hypoallergenic.

Feeding the Irish Wolfhound

an Irish Wolfhound extending its snout towards a person's hand

Daily requirements

Irish Wolfhounds need a balanced diet rich in proteins and vitamins for vitality and strength. Premium kibble designed for large breeds is recommended. Supplement with lean white and red meat if needed, but limit fats.

Breeding or adoption & cost

What does an Irish Wolfhound cost?

The Irish Wolfhound is well-regarded with several breeders available. It's important to consider several factors before adopting.

How to choose your Irish Wolfhound

an Irish Wolfhound sitting quietly in the grass, kept on a leash

Finding the right breeder

When selecting a breeder, visit the breeders to assess the living conditions and behavior. Ensure the health of the puppy and its parents, seeking information about any illnesses in their lineage.

Microchip your dog by 8 weeks old and register their details with Petlog or Animal Tracker to comply with legal requirements in Great Britain, avoiding a

fine. Vets and Blue Cross centers offer microchipping.

3 Irish Greyhounds together on the grass

The price of an Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhound puppies cost between

and

Annual maintenance, including veterinary fees and food, costs

to

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