| Irish Wolfhound Breed Information | |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Calm, dignified, and kindly; excellent companions with a gentle nature. |
| Life Expectancy | Typically 6 – 8 years. |
| Grooming | Rough, hard coat requires regular brushing; occasional baths recommended. |
| Size | Males: Minimum 32 inches tall; Females: Minimum 30 inches tall. |
| Weight | Males: 140 – 180 pounds; Females: 115 – 140 pounds. |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate exercise; daily walks and ample space to roam. |
| Food Requirements | High-quality diet suitable for large breeds; monitor portions to maintain healthy weight. |
Living with Gentle Giants: A Comprehensive Guide to the Irish Wolfhound
Hey there, fellow dog lovers! Ever been stopped in your tracks by a dog so majestic they seem to have stepped right out of a legend? Chances are, you’ve encountered an Irish Wolfhound. These incredible hounds aren’t just tall; they’re the AKC breeds and boast a history as rich and fascinating as their impressive stature. Originally bred to be fearless big-game hunters, capable of taking down wolves, these gentle giants have transitioned into the most serene and agreeable of companions today. Come along with me as we explore everything you need to know about these remarkable dogs!
Unpacking the Pedigree: Origins and History
Ancient Roots
Did you know that way back in 391 AD, a Roman statesman named Quintus Aurelius Symmachus mentioned some mighty ” canes Scotici ” (that’s Latin for Irish dogs!) that were gifted to him for fighting lions and bears? He even wrote that “all Rome viewed (them) with wonder“! These early mentions hint at the long history of these impressive canines. The Gaels, the ancient Irish, knew them as “Cú Faoil,” which literally translates to “wolfhound” – “cú” meaning hound and “faol” meaning wolf. These dogs were so significant that they popped up in Irish laws and literature dating way back to the sixth century. Even legendary figures like Cú Chulainn, whose name means “hound of Culann,” were associated with these noble animals.
Now, here’s a little myth-busting for you. While we might picture these ancient dogs as absolutely enormous, Irish zooarchaeologist Finbar McCormick actually found that no dogs of current Irish Wolfhound size are known from the Iron Age through the early Christian period (1000 BC to 1200 AD). So, the “dog of Cú Chulainn was no larger than an Alsatian,” not the calf-sized beast some might imagine!
Irish Wolfhounds through the ages
Sweet gifts for the Irish Wolfhound lover…
The Era of Wolf Hunting
Fast forward to 1571, and we find Edmund Campion describing the Irish hounds used for hunting wolves in the Dublin and Wicklow mountains as “bigger of bone and limb than a colt“. Their skill in dispatching game made them highly prized by coursing hunters. Sadly, their popularity abroad led to many being exported to European royal houses, which actually depleted their numbers in Ireland. To counter this, even Oliver Cromwell issued a declaration in 1652 to ensure enough remained to control the wolf population! Eventually, the last wolf in Ireland was killed in County Carlow in 1786.
Decline and Revival
With the wolves gone, the Irish Wolfhound faced scarcity. In 1790, Thomas Bewick described them as “the largest and most beautiful of the dog kind; about 36 inches high…mild…peaceful, and strength so great“, but also noted their rarity. Thomas Pennant in the late 18th century couldn’t find more than three!. Thankfully, a true champion of the breed emerged in the 19th century: Captain George Augustus Graham. He dedicated himself to reviving the breed, believing that the Scottish Deerhound was descended from the original Irish Wolfhound. As a result, he heavily emphasized both the Scottish Deerhound and the Great Dane in his breeding program. Interestingly, DNA analysis today actually shows a “significant sharing of DNA between the Irish Wolfhound and the Great Dane“! It’s said that Captain Graham aimed to retain the original appearance, even if the exact genetic ancestry was somewhat different. In 1885, he founded the Irish Wolfhound Club and established the Breed Standard.
Sweet baby shower gifts for the Irish Wolfhound lover…
Modern Recognition
The legacy of this revival continues today. In 1902, the Irish Wolfhound was declared the regimental mascot of the Irish Guards. And, as we know, the AKC recognizes them as the tallest of all breeds. It’s worth noting that while the original hounds were from Ireland, the modern breed was developed in Gloucestershire, England.
Cultural Significance
Beyond their physical presence, Irish Wolfhounds have truly captured our imaginations, inspiring literature, poetry, and mythology throughout history.
More Than Just Size: Physical Characteristics
Okay, let’s talk about the impressive build of these dogs!
Size and Build
When we say big, we mean big! The Irish Wolfhound is one of the largest of all dog breeds. According to breed standards, you can expect them to stand between 81–86 centimetres (that’s 32–34 inches!) at the withers, with males needing to be at least 79 cm (31 in) and females a minimum of 71 cm (28 in). And they’ve got the weight to match, with males weighing a minimum of 54.5 kg (120 lb) and females at least 40.5 kg (89 lb), often around 105–120 pounds. They’re more massively built than the Scottish Deerhound but not quite as hefty as a Great Dane. A key characteristic is that they should appear to be longer than they are tall.
Coat and Colour
Their coat is described as rough and hard on the head, body, and legs, with a particularly wiry beard and hair over their eyes. They come in a beautiful range of colours, including black, brindle, fawn, grey, red, pure white, or any colour you might see in a Deerhound. You might also see them in cream and silver shades.
Distinctive Features
Keep an eye out for their muscular and fairly long neck, which they carry with a proud, high head carriage.
For the Proud Irish Wolfhound Lover
The Heart of the Hound: Temperament and Personality
Don’t let their size fool you; Irish Wolfhounds are known for their wonderful temperaments!
General Disposition
They are generally calm, dignified, and kindly, with a docile nature. Think serene and agreeable companions, known to be gentle and sensitive. Despite their history, they are typically quiet by nature and have an easygoing attitude.
Individual Quirks
One of the lovely things about this breed is their varied range of personalities and how they’re often noted for their “personal quirks and individualism“. They are rarely what you’d call mindless.
Interaction with Family
Irish Wolfhounds often form a strong bond with their family and absolutely crave affection. They are generally affectionate with most people and remarkably patient with children.
Socialization
Because of their size, early socialization is super important. Thankfully, if properly introduced from a young age, they are generally comfortable with other dogs and can become very attached to both their human and canine family members. However, they aren’t always the most adaptable breed if their established bonds are broken.
Prey Drive
Given their history as hunters, it’s no surprise that Irish Wolfhounds can have a strong prey drive. This means a tall, fenced-in yard is definitely recommended to keep them safe from chasing neighbourhood critters. You’ll also want to be cautious around smaller pets like cats or rodents, and even squirrels on walks might tempt them!
Trainability
Despite their independent streak, Irish Wolfhounds are sensitive and eager to please, which means they typically respond well to positive reinforcement training.
Guardian Instincts
While they weren’t specifically bred as guard dogs, their size alone makes them effective and imposing guardians. They are loyal and devoted. Interestingly, they aren’t necessarily naturally inclined to defend spaces due to their independent breeding. However, their close affinity with humans makes them very aware and sensitive to ill will, leading them to excel as guardians when needed. They’ll likely alert you if anything seems amiss without excessive barking.
Potential Challenges
It’s important to know that Irish Wolfhounds can become quite destructive or even a bit down in the dumps if left alone for long periods. Some might even develop separation anxiety, so they really thrive on being with their families. Providing plenty of physical and mental activity can help prevent anxiety.
FREE Renaissance dog print
Get your FREE Renaissance Irish Wolfhound both Male and Female Prints – HERE!!
Making Them Happy and Healthy: Caring for Your Gentle Giant
Bringing an Irish Wolfhound into your life is a big decision (literally!). Here’s what you need to consider for their care:
Space Requirements
Due to their sheer size, Irish Wolfhounds need a significant amount of space. If you have a smaller home or very limited yard space, this might not be the breed for you.
Exercise Needs
While they aren’t hyperactive, Irish Wolfhounds do need regular exercise to stay healthy and prevent obesity. They’re pretty adaptable to your activity level, but daily walks and opportunities to stretch their legs are essential. Fun activities they enjoy include tracking, neighborhood walks, agility (with modifications for their size), racing (like lure coursing), and obedience training.
Feeding and Nutrition
Feeding a giant breed like the Irish Wolfhound requires careful consideration. Giant breed puppies need to grow at a steady pace on a puppy food specifically designed for giant and large breeds. These foods have the right balance of fat, protein, and carbohydrates to support their development. Growing too quickly can lead to weak bones and joints, increasing the risk of conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia.
As adults, Irish Wolfhounds do best when fed about every 12 hours. Because they are prone to bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus or GDV), it’s crucial to take precautions during mealtimes:
- Feed multiple small meals per day instead of one big one.
- Avoid letting them exercise right before or after eating.
- Do not use a raised food bowl, as this may increase the risk of bloat.
- Consider using a slow-feeder bowl to prevent them from gulping down their food too quickly.
Maintaining a lean body condition is also vital for their joint health. Your vet can help you determine the right amount to feed based on their individual needs. Some owners also find that omega-3 fatty acids can be beneficial for their skin, coat, kidneys, joints, and heart, but always chat with your vet before adding any supplements. It’s best to feed them a commercial kibble or wet food that meets AAFCO standards to ensure they’re getting a complete and balanced diet.
Some of Amazon’s Top Picks for Large Dog Breeds
Grooming
You might be surprised to learn that Irish Wolfhounds have minimal grooming needs. They are moderate shedders but don’t tend to drool excessively. A weekly brushing is recommended to remove loose hairs and keep shedding under control. Every six months, they should have their coat hand-stripped, which involves removing dead hair either by hand or with a stripping rake. They only need a bath every one to three months using a dog-specific shampoo for wiry hair. Don’t forget to clean their ears every two to four weeks to prevent infections, and keep an eye on their eyes for any squinting or discharge, which should be checked by a vet.
Training
Just like with socialization, early training is key. Irish Wolfhounds are sensitive and eager to please, making them quite trainable with positive reinforcement methods. Given their prey drive, consistent training in this area is important. Start socializing your puppy as soon as you bring them home and talk to your breeder about their socialization practices.
Understanding Their Well-being: Health Considerations
It’s important to be aware of the health issues that can affect Irish Wolfhounds:
Shorter Lifespan
Sadly, like many giant breeds, Irish Wolfhounds have a relatively short lifespan, typically averaging 6–8 years. However, some recent studies have shown slightly longer averages, with a 2024 UK study finding a life expectancy of 9.9 years. A 2005 Swedish study indicated that 91% lived to be under 10 years old.
Common Health Problems
Some of the most frequently reported health concerns in the breed include:
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) and Bloat: This is a severe and sudden condition where the stomach fills with gas or food and can twist, cutting off blood supply. It requires immediate veterinary intervention. Symptoms include retching without vomit, a swollen abdomen, drooling, and collapse. Prevention can involve a prophylactic gastropexy (surgically attaching the stomach to the abdominal wall), feeding multiple small meals, avoiding raised bowls and exercise around mealtimes, and using slow feeders.
- Bone Cancer (Osteosarcoma): This is an aggressive bone cancer that sadly Irish Wolfhounds are predisposed to. It’s more common in larger breeds, and Irish Wolfhounds have a significantly higher risk. The first sign is often lameness or limping. Treatment usually involves pain control, often amputation of the affected limb, followed by chemotherapy.
- Hip Dysplasia: This occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly and becomes loose. It can lead to arthritis, pain, limping, and difficulty standing. Management includes maintaining a lean weight, low-impact exercise, omega-3 supplements, joint supplements, and in severe cases, surgery.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this involves the abnormal development of the elbow joint, often due to genetics. It can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis, and often requires surgery.
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): This is a degeneration of the heart muscle, causing it to become thin and pump weakly. Symptoms can develop suddenly or gradually and can eventually lead to congestive heart failure. It’s a serious condition requiring intensive treatment and is likely hereditary in the breed.
Other health issues reported include osteochondrosis.
Importance of Regular Veterinary Care
Regular check-ups with your vet are crucial for early detection of any health issues. Don’t hesitate to contact your vet if you notice any concerning signs, such as squinting or discharge in the eyes or redness or debris in the ears.
Considering Pet Health Insurance
Given the potential for these health conditions, pet health insurance can be a very wise decision when owning an Irish Wolfhound.
The Realities: Life Beyond the Legend
While owning an Irish Wolfhound is incredibly rewarding, there are some practical realities to consider:
Daily Life with a Giant
Day-to-day life involves navigating with a very large dog. Think about fitting them comfortably in your car, ensuring they have enough space to move around your home without knocking things over, and the sheer volume of food they consume!
Financial Commitment
The initial cost of an Irish Wolfhound puppy can range from $1,500–$3,500 on average. And the expenses don’t stop there. You’ll need to factor in the cost of feeding a giant breed, larger doses of medications if needed, potentially higher vet bills due to their predisposition to certain conditions, and larger-sized beds and equipment.
Emotional Impact of a Shorter Lifespan
It’s important to be prepared for the emotional challenges that come with loving a breed with a shorter lifespan. Cherishing every moment and focusing on making the most of your time together is key.
Space and Lifestyle Adjustments
We can’t stress enough the need for adequate space. While they aren’t overly energetic indoors, they still need room to move comfortably. They are adaptable to most activity levels but do require regular exercise.
Fall in love with the cutest Irish Wolfhound gifts
Irish Wolfhounds in the Modern World
While their original purpose was wolf hunting, Irish Wolfhounds continue to make their mark in the modern world. Their calm and gentle nature can make them wonderful therapy dogs. They can also participate in dog sports like lure coursing (as sighthounds) and even agility (with adjustments for their size). And of course, the Irish Wolfhound remains a beloved and recognized national symbol of Ireland.
Responsible Ownership: A Paw Pledge
If you’re considering bringing an Irish Wolfhound into your life, it’s crucial to do so responsibly:
- Seek out reputable breeders who prioritize health testing for common genetic conditions like DCM and hip and elbow dysplasia.
- Be fully aware of the significant commitment of ownership, including their size, exercise needs, potential health problems, and shorter lifespan.
- Consider supporting Irish Wolfhound rescues as a wonderful way to give a deserving dog a loving home.
- Talk to your vet about the benefits of spaying or neutering, which can also include preventative measures like a gastropexy during the procedure.
In Conclusion: Embracing the Majesty
The Irish Wolfhound is truly a remarkable breed. Their imposing size is beautifully contrasted by their gentle and kind nature. Their rich history and cultural significance only add to their allure. While they come with specific care needs and health considerations, the experience of sharing your life with one of these gentle giants is profoundly rewarding. If you have the space, the resources, and the heart for this magnificent breed, you’ll find a loyal, loving, and truly legendary companion in the Irish Wolfhound.
Must Read Articles about the Irish Wolfhoud
Irish Wolfhound Cost Calculator
The Pros and Cons of Owning an Irish Wolfhound on You Tube
Recommended Products for The Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound Breeders in the USA
Alabama
- Beau Gregory – Website | Birmingham, AL 35206
California
- CuSpeire – Website | Anaheim, CA 92805
- Sunstag – Website | Lucerne Valley, CA 92356
- Runamuk Ranch – Website | Madera, CA 93638
Florida
- Grace Stables – Website | Bonifay, FL 32425
Georgia
- Carnasserie Irish Wolfhounds – Website | Blackshear, GA 31516
- Bushy Creek Kennel – Website | Waynesboro, GA 30830
Idaho
- Shear Pedigree – Facebook | Caldwell, ID 83607
Iowa
- Boondocks Irish Wolfhounds – REG – Website | Nichols, IA 52766
Kentucky
Louisiana
- Ashton Acres – Facebook | Covington, LA 70435
Michigan
- Jacqueline Penney – Website | Roscommon, MI 48653
Missouri
- Suzanne Greer – Website | Lathrop, MO 64465
Montana
- Wendy Bantz/Montana’s Irish Wolfhounds – Email: w.bantz@bresnan.net | Helena, MT 59602
Nebraska
- Olive Branch Irish Wolfhounds – Website | Bennington, NE 68007
- Blue River Irish Wolfhounds – Website | Beatrice, NE 68310
- Prairie Sparks Irish Wolfhounds – Facebook | Firth, NE 68358
Nevada
- Tricia Finley – Website | Washoe Valley, NV 89704
New York
- Janice Preisz – Website | Baldwin, NY 11510
- Ellen Lewis – Website | Machias, NY 14101
- Lee Anne Johnson-Greene – Website | Boonville, NY 13309
North Carolina
- Largh Pah – Website | Sylva, NC 28779
Ohio
Oklahoma
- Wishall Wolfhounds – Website | Nowata, OK 74048
Oregon
- Bella Menagerie – Website | Ashland, OR 97520
South Carolina
- Justin King – Website | Marion, SC 29571
Tennessee
- Hounds of Ravenhill – Website | Clinton, TN 37716
- Turner Legacy Irish Wolfhound – Website | Johnson City, TN 37604
Texas
- JB Irish Wolfhounds – Website | Mount Pleasant, TX 75455
Utah
- Hidden Hollow Wolfhounds – Facebook | Herriman, UT 84096
- Grey Manoir – Website | Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
- O’Donoghue Irish Wolfhounds – Website | Hooper, UT 84315
Virginia
- Raymond Casey – Website | Cape Charles, VA 23310
Washington
- Grace McNally – Website | Richland, WA 99352
Wyoming
- The Clan of Heraghty Irish Wolfhounds – Website | Carpenter, WY 82054
Unknown Location (No Location Listed)
- Hops-N-Hounds Irish Wolfhounds Reg. – Website
If you are an Irish Wolfhound breeder but not on the map email us at: woof@youririshwolfhound.com
The Vintage Irish Wolfhound Home
Irish Wolfhound Guides and Bibles on Amazon