Irish Wolfhound vs Smooth Fox Terrier

Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound

Courageous, Dignified, Calm

Smooth Fox Terrier
Smooth Fox Terrier

Friendly, Independent, Amusing

Breed Compatibility

93% Compatible

Energy Level

Irish Wolfhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Smooth Fox Terrier: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible

Trainability

Irish Wolfhound: Independent0.4
Smooth Fox Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible

Grooming Needs

Irish Wolfhound: Weekly Brushing0.4
Smooth Fox Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible

Cost Category

Luxury
Moderate
Very Compatible

Compatibility with Others

Good with Children
Irish Wolfhound3/5
Smooth Fox Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Wolfhound4/5
Smooth Fox Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Wolfhound3/5
Smooth Fox Terrier3/5

Health & Care Comparison

Irish Wolfhound

Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Heart condition
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Osteosarcoma: Bone cancer risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clot
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye Problems: Progressive issues

Smooth Fox Terrier

Lens luxation: Eye lens displacement
Cataracts: Vision clouding condition
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Epilepsy: Neurological seizures
Patellar luxation: Kneecap issues
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint problem

Pros & Cons Comparison

Irish Wolfhound

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

Smooth Fox Terrier

Pros
Highly intelligent
Low maintenance coat
Excellent watchdog
Athletic and agile
Cons
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
Requires firm training
High exercise needs

Irish Wolfhound Fun Fact

Irish law once restricted ownership of Irish Wolfhounds to nobility and royal families only!

Smooth Fox Terrier Fun Fact

Their distinctive white coat helped hunters distinguish them from foxes during traditional hunts!

Heritage & Purpose

Irish Wolfhound

Origin:

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.

Smooth Fox Terrier

Origin:

Developed in England during the 19th century, these terriers excelled at fox hunting, particularly in driving foxes from their dens. Their smooth coat allowed easy movement through underground burrows.

Special Considerations

Irish Wolfhound

Regular heart monitoring is crucial. Exercise must be moderate during growth phases. Large living space and significant food costs should be considered before adoption.

Smooth Fox Terrier

Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Weekly grooming maintains coat condition. Regular exercise essential to prevent destructive behavior.

Shedding

Seasonal

Shedding

Occasional

Related Comparisons