What is the Irish Wolfhound Fur Like?

10 Essential Tips for Caring for Irish Wolfhound Fur

Irish Wolfhounds have a unique double coat—a rough, wiry outer coat with a softer undercoat. Proper care is essential to keep their fur healthy, tangle-free, and looking its best. Here are 10 expert tips to maintain your Irish Wolfhound’s coat:

1. Brush Regularly (At Least 2-3 Times a Week)

Their wiry coat needs regular brushing to prevent matting and remove loose hair. Use:
✅ A slicker brush for detangling.
✅ A comb with wide & narrow teeth for deeper grooming.
✅ A stripping knife for coat maintenance.

💡 Tip: Brushing also helps distribute natural oils, keeping the coat healthy.

2. Hand Strip Their Coat Instead of Clipping

Irish Wolfhounds don’t need traditional haircuts, but their coat benefits from hand-stripping—removing dead hair by hand or using a stripping tool.
🚫 Avoid shaving or heavy clipping, as it can damage the coat texture.

3. Bathe Only When Necessary

Bathing too often can strip natural oils from the coat. Aim for once every 2-3 months or when your dog gets especially dirty.
🛁 Use:
✅ A gentle, dog-friendly shampoo (oatmeal-based for sensitive skin).
✅ A moisturizing conditioner if their coat feels dry.

💡 Tip: Always rinse thoroughly—residual shampoo can cause skin irritation.

4. Keep an Eye on Shedding Patterns

Irish Wolfhounds shed moderately but may shed more seasonally (spring & fall). Increase brushing during shedding periods to control loose hair.

🚨 Excessive shedding or bald patches? Could indicate a diet issue, allergies, or an underlying health condition—consult a vet.

5. Maintain a Healthy Diet for a Shiny Coat

A nutritious diet directly affects coat health. Ensure they get:
🥩 High-quality protein (helps with coat growth).
🐟 Omega-3 & Omega-6 fatty acids (found in fish oil) to reduce dryness.
🥕 Vitamins like Biotin & Zinc for coat strength.

💡 Tip: A raw egg once a week can boost coat shine naturally.

6. Protect Their Skin from Dryness & Dandruff

If you notice dry, flaky skin, try:
✅ Adding salmon oil or coconut oil to their diet.
✅ Using a humidifier in winter to prevent dryness.
✅ Choosing a hypoallergenic dog shampoo if they have sensitive skin.

7. Regularly Check for Ticks & Fleas

Their thick coat can hide parasites, so check regularly:
🐜 Behind ears, neck, armpits, and tail base.
🔍 Use a flea comb after walks in grassy areas.

🚨 Tip: Monthly flea & tick prevention treatments are essential.

8. Trim Their Fur Around Paws & Ears

Overgrown fur around the paw pads can trap dirt, causing infections. Keep this area trimmed.
👂 Ear hair should also be checked & cleaned to prevent buildup and infections.

💡 Tip: Avoid deep ear plucking—it can cause irritation.

9. Keep Their Coat Dry After Walks in the Rain

Their wiry coat can hold moisture, leading to hot spots or fungal infections if left damp.
🌧️ After walks in wet weather:
✅ Towel-dry thoroughly.
✅ Use a blow dryer on low heat for extra fluff.

🚨 Avoid air drying in cold weather—it can lead to chills.

10. Watch for Coat Color Changes

Irish Wolfhounds can lighten or darken with age.
🌟 Puppy coats may change color as they mature.
🚨 Sudden fur thinning or drastic color change could indicate a health issue—visit the vet if concerned.