IRISH WOLFHOUND

Temperament: Courageous, Dignified, Calm

AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 76 of 197

Height: 32 inches minimum (male), 30 inches minimum (female)

Weight: 120 pounds (male), 105 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 6-8 years

Group: Hound Group

ABOUT THE IRISH WOLFHOUND

This ancient breed originated in Ireland, where he served as both a war dog and hunting dog. He came close to extinction in the 19th century after the great prey animals — wolves, deer, and wild boars — had largely disappeared in Ireland, but the breed was revived and today is a wonderful companion who draws the admiration of many.

Like any dog, the Irish Wolfhound isn’t the breed for everyone. His gigantic size alone is a consideration. He has several health issues that potential owners must be aware of. And he’s a short-lived breed who has only a 6- to 8-year life span.

PERSONALITY

Intelligent and gentle, the Irish Wolfhound has a strong desire for human companionship. With his family, he’s calm, dignified, and responsive. He’s sensitive and must be trained using positive reinforcement such as praise and food rewards. Harsh words or physical punishment will cause him to shut down. When it comes to watchdog duties, he’s alert but not suspicious. There’s not an aggressive bone in his body, so he’s a poor choice as a guard dog.

NUTRITION

A high-quality dog food appropriate for the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior) and ideally formulated for large breeds should have all the nutrients the Irish Wolfhound needs. Because of the risk of bloat, strenuous exercise is not recommended before or after feeding time.

HEALTH

Like other large and deep-chested breeds, Wolfhounds can experience bloat, a sudden and life-threatening swelling of the abdomen, and owners should educate themselves about its symptoms and what to do should bloat occur.

And Irish Wolfhounds are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they’re prone to certain health conditions.

Anesthesia Sensitivity

Hip Dysplasia

Elbow Dysplasia

Liver Shunt

Heart Disease

Fibrocartilaginous Embolic Myelopathy

Osteochondrosis Dissecans

Osteosarcoma

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

CARE

Wolfhounds need exercise throughout their lives. Because they retain a strong instinct to hunt and chase prey, they should only be allowed loose in areas that are securely fenced, and any walks must be taken on a leash. As adults, Irish Wolfhounds can become couch potatoes if allowed to, but regular exercise such as long walks or play sessions will help keep them physically and mentally healthy. A home with a fairly large fenced area is necessary to provide the kind of environment in which they can thrive. The breed can also exercise mind and body by participating in canine sports like tracking, agility, and lure coursing.

GROOMING

Irish Wolfhounds have a double coat that consists of a harsh, wiry outer coat covering a soft undercoat. They shed throughout the year, but not to an excessive degree. A thorough brushing once a week or so will help to remove dirt and loose hair and keep the dog looking his best. Unlike many double-coated breeds, Irish Wolfhounds don’t “blow out” their coats during an annual or semi-annual shedding season. As with all breeds, the nails should be trimmed regularly, as overly long nails can be painful to the dog and cause problems walking and running.

Source: dogtime, akc.