Irish Wolfhound
Quick Summary
Majestic gentle giants ideal for spacious homes and experienced owners. Key considerations include short lifespan, size requirements, and health monitoring needs.
Contents
Weight Range
105-120 lbs
♂ Male: 120-120 lbs
♀ Female: 105-105 lbs
Height Range
76-81 inches
♂ Male: 32-34"
♀ Female: 32-34"
Life Expectancy
6-8 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #52
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Hound Group
Originally bred for Medieval Ireland saw these noble hounds hunting wolves and large game, while also serving as war dogs and guardians of castles
Popularity
#76
Moderately popular breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 32"-34" |
| Female Height | 32"-34" |
| Male Weight | 120-120 lbs |
| Female Weight | 105-105 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $2000-3000 for a puppy. Monthly expenses of $200-300 cover food and basic care. Regular health screenings and potential cardiac care can add significant medical costs throughout life.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
These gentle giants exhibit remarkable patience and dignity. Their calm energy level makes them surprisingly suitable as house dogs, despite their size. They show natural protective instincts without aggression, maintaining a peaceful presence.
Social Needs
Irish Wolfhounds thrive on human companionship and generally get along well with other dogs. They can tolerate short periods alone but prefer company. Daily social interaction is essential for their emotional well-being.
Breed Overview
Majestic Irish Wolfhounds stand as gentle giants of the canine world, with their distinctive rough coat and commanding presence. Their muscular build, deep chest, and long legs create an imposing yet graceful silhouette. Despite their formidable size, these hounds possess remarkably gentle temperaments, combining dignified bearing with patient, calm demeanors that make them exceptional companions.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Gentle and patient temperament
- ✓ Good with children
- ✓ Minimal barking
- ✓ Noble and dignified presence
Cons
- ✗ Very short lifespan
- ✗ Requires large living space
- ✗ High food costs
- ✗ Health issues common
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Courageous, Dignified, Calm |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Irish Wolfhounds require 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, including long walks and moderate jogging. Their exercise intensity should be carefully monitored during growth phases. Fenced areas are essential for safe off-leash activities.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Irish Wolfhounds require 4-8 cups of high-quality large breed food daily, divided into 2-3 meals. Special attention must be paid to calcium levels during growth phases, with controlled portions to prevent rapid growth issues.
Large breed adult formula is essential, with 4-8 cups daily split into multiple meals. Protein content should be moderate (23-25%), with controlled calcium for proper growth. Senior dogs may need joint supplements and reduced calories.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
These giants need substantial indoor space with room to stretch out comfortably. Rural or suburban homes with large fenced yards are ideal. They adapt well to cool climates but need shelter from extreme heat.
A minimum of 1/2 acre fenced yard is recommended, along with spacious indoor areas. These giants need room to stretch out and move freely. Access to secure outdoor space for exercise is essential.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Ancient Irish texts praise these magnificent hounds as gifts worthy of kings and nobles. Used for hunting wolves and large game in medieval Ireland, they nearly went extinct in the 1800s before dedicated breeders restored the line.
Historical Purpose
Medieval Ireland saw these noble hounds hunting wolves and large game, while also serving as war dogs and guardians of castles. Their presence was a symbol of nobility and power.
Fun Fact
Irish law once restricted ownership of Irish Wolfhounds to nobility and royal families only!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular heart monitoring is crucial. Exercise must be moderate during growth phases. Large living space and significant food costs should be considered before adoption.