Irish Wolfhound Dog Breed - Origin, Pictures, Caring Needs, Friendliness and more
Irish Wolfhound At A Glance
Irish Wolfhound Overview
Irish Wolfhound Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is a large, powerful breed with an impressive history dating back over two thousand years. Originating from Ireland, this breed was originally used to hunt wolves and deer. Today, they are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and gentle nature.
Standing at approximately 32 to 36 inches tall and weighing between 140 to 175 pounds, Irish Wolfhounds have a distinctive appearance with long, flowing coats that can be of various colors including black, gray, brindle, or mahogany. Their most prominent feature is their large, expressive eyes.
These dogs require regular exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their health and well-being. They are known for their strong protective instincts and make excellent watchdogs, as well as family companions.
Irish Wolfhound Key Points
- •Irish Wolfhounds are known for their impressive size and can grow up to 34 inches tall.
- •They have a thick, double-layered coat that comes in several colors including gray, brindle, black, or white.
- •These dogs have an exceptionally long, flowing tail that they often hold over their backs.
- •Irish Wolfhounds are known for their loyal and protective nature, making them great guard dogs.
- •They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their physical and emotional well-being.
Irish Wolfhound Quick Facts
- Average Purchase Price
- $1300
- Average Food Costs
- $1200/year
- Average Lifetime Costs
- $18400
- Origin
- Ireland
- Type
- Hound
- Average Life Span
- 7 years
- Size
- Giant
- Average Weight
- 52 kg
- Average Height
- 33 inches
- Fur Colours
- Grey, Red
- Eye Colours
- Brown
- Exercise Requirements
- 2 hours per day
- Grooming Needs
- Moderate(More than once a week)
- Shedding Fequency
- Seasonal
- Ideal Living Size
- Large house
- Health Issues Risk
- High(Dental problems, eye issues, skin allergies)
- Temperament
- Sweet-Tempered, Loyal, Dignified, Patient, Thoughtful, Generous
- Character
- Loyal, intelligent, good-natured, energetic
Irish Wolfhound Characteristics
Friendly Rating7/10
Trainability6/10
Intelligence Rating6/10
Good with Other Dogs8/10
Good with Strangers6/10
Shedding Tendency6/10
Drooling Tendency4/10
Coat Length2/10
Playfulness6/10
Protectiveness10/10
Energy6/10
Barking Tendency2/10
Adaptability4/10
Beginner Friendliness4/10
Cold Weather Tolerance8/10
Hot Weather Tolerance4/10
Physical Needs5/10
Intensity4/10
Irish Wolfhound FAQs
What is an Irish Wolfhound?
The Irish Wolfhound is a large breed of dog known for its distinctive appearance and gentle nature. It is often referred to as the "Gentle Giant" due to its friendly demeanor and powerful build.
How big do Irish Wolfhounds get?
Irish Wolfhounds are among the largest breeds, typically standing between 30-36 inches (75-91 cm) tall and weighing around 120-180 pounds (54-82 kg). Their size can vary, with some individuals being smaller or larger than average.
What is their temperament like?
Irish Wolfhounds are known for their gentle and loyal nature. They make excellent family dogs but require plenty of space and exercise to be happy. While they are not aggressive, they are strong and have a powerful presence, making them suitable for households with children and other pets if socialized properly.
What is the history of the Irish Wolfhound?
The breed has an ancient history dating back over 2000 years, originally bred by Celtic warriors to hunt wolves in Ireland. Today, they are recognized by various kennel clubs worldwide but remain relatively rare due to their large size and unique care requirements.
How much exercise do Irish Wolfhounds need?
Irish Wolfhounds require a lot of exercise to maintain good health. Daily walks or jogs, along with some off-leash running in a safe environment, are essential to keep them happy and healthy. Their energy level can be high, so they need plenty of physical activity to burn off excess energy.
What are their grooming needs?
Irish Wolfhounds have long, thick coats that require regular brushing and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Their ears should also be cleaned regularly to prevent infections. Due to their large size and droopy jowls, they may need dental care more frequently than other breeds to avoid issues like gum disease.
What health concerns are common in Irish Wolfhounds?
Irish Wolfhounds are prone to several health issues, including hip dysplasia, joint problems, heart defects, and allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper exercise can help manage these conditions and maintain their overall health.
