Irish Wolfhound
The Gentle Giant
AKC & CKC Hound Group
Is This the Right Breed for You?
✔ Excellent Match For
- Families with space who want a calm, gentle "gentle giant" companion
- Experienced dog owners prepared for giant breed challenges
- Homes seeking a loyal, affectionate companion with moderate exercise needs
✖ Consider Carefully If
- You want a dog with great recall - sighthound instincts can override training when they see prey
- You're on a tight budget (food, vet care, and supplies are expensive)
- You want a long-lived breed (Irish Wolfhounds have shorter lifespans)
Owner Suitability
The Irish Wolfhound is a magnificent, gentle giant that requires specific ownership considerations. While calm and affectionate, their massive size brings unique challenges. Success depends on proper training, early socialization, and commitment to their health needs.Stats:
- Height: 30-34 inches
- Weight: 105-180 pounds
- Coat: Rough and wiry; requires regular grooming
- Colors: Gray, brindle, red, black, white, or fawn
- Lifespan: 6-8 years
Origin & History
The Irish Wolfhound is one of the oldest dog breeds, dating back to ancient Ireland where they were revered as war dogs and hunters of wolves and Irish elk. Celtic chieftains prized these massive hounds, often giving them as royal gifts. By the 19th century, the breed nearly became extinct after wolves were eradicated from Ireland.
- One of the oldest dog breeds, dating back to ancient Ireland
- Used as war dogs and hunters of wolves and Irish elk
- Nearly extinct by the 19th century
- Revived by Captain George Augustus Graham in the late 1800s
Today, the Irish Wolfhound is the tallest of all dog breeds, though their gentle nature belies their imposing size. Known as the "gentle giant" of the dog world, they combine massive size with a sweet temperament, making them beloved companions despite their relatively short lifespan.
| Traits: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energy: Moderate; needs regular exercise but not hyperactive | ✓ | ||||
| Easy To Train: Intelligent but independent; responds best to gentle training | ✓ | ||||
| Shedding: Moderate; coarse double coat releases steady fur year-round | ✓ | ||||
| Grooming: Moderate; weekly brushing and occasional hand-stripping needed | ✓ | ||||
| Family Dog: Excellent; gentle and patient with children | ✓ | ||||
| Watchdog: Impressive appearance deters intruders but not aggressive | ✓ | ||||
| Beginner Friendly: Challenging due to massive size and strength | ✓ | ||||
| Prey Drive: Moderate; will chase small animals if not trained | ✓ | ||||
| Barking: Occasional; not excessively vocal | ✓ | ||||
| Good with other dogs: Tolerant and friendly | ✓ |
Health Concerns:
- Cardiac Disease: Particularly cardiomyopathy
- Bone Cancer: High incidence of osteosarcoma
- Hip Dysplasia: Common in giant breeds
- Bloat (Gastric Torsion): Life-threatening emergency
- Liver Shunt: Congenital blood vessel abnormality
- Hypothyroidism: Underactive thyroid gland
Please check the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) and parent breed clubs for health information.
Glossary of general canine health conditions.