Read About Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhounds are notable for their size -- they are the tallest dog in the world. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Summary:

1. Size:

   Giant dog

2. Weight:

   90-150 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Wiry all over, with longer hair under their jaws and eyes.

4. Shedding:

   Average-heavy shedder

5. Temperament:

   Intelligent, loyal, quiet dogs. They are amazingly loving dogs, too.

6. Obedience:

   They are very intelligent and gentle dogs, but don't have much use for endless training. They're simply not very interested.

7. Ease of Training:

   Although Irish Wolfhounds can be trained, it's a better idea to socialize them and leave it at that.

8. Way with Children:

   Can be excellent with children if you keep their size in mind.

- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Hounds/1950

2. Size & Weight:

   28-35"; 90-150 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Wiry all over, with longer hair under their jaws and eyes.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Irish Wolfhound's have square heads with shaggy muzzles.

5. Body:

   Sturdy and rangy in appearance; beneath their coats, not unlike greyhounds.

6. Colors:

   Wide variety of colors, including (but not limited to) gray, brindle, red, black, and fawn

7. Life Expectancy:

   Terribly short -- 6-8 years

8. Popularity:

   Not very high on the AKC's list of registered dogs. They are unique because of their size and life expectancy, so are not a dog for everyone.

9. Habitat:

   Because of their size, potential households need to be willing and able to accommodate a very large dog with substantial exercise needs, potentially serious health concerns, and a brutally short lifespan. This breed needs a large fenced area or a lot of leash time, because they are not very good as recalls.

- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Ireland

2. Historical Information:

   Known as the Irish Greyhound, this breed has a history of 2,000 years in his home country.

- Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Intelligent, loyal, quiet dogs.

2. Behavior:

   Gentle, loving, well-mannered when socialized.

3. Habits:

   Irish Wolfhounds, for all their size, are a bit shy around strangers.

- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   • Bloat (gastric torsion) • Cardiomyopathy • Elbow hygroma (fluid-filled swellings) • Eye disorders, including cataracts • Hip dysplasia • Osteochondrosis (a congenital problem with cartilage)

2. Exercise Needs:

   Substantial exercise needs.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Daily brushing to prevent matting, and occasional trimming of the face and underside.

4. Travel Needs:

   These are enormous dogs, and

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Get along with other pets once they learn that they can't stalk them. Can be excellent with children if you keep their size in mind.

- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Clear eyes, sleek coats, and tons of energy. Their easygoing nature will be evident, as will their hunting propensities.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   An appropriate crate, door gates and backyard dog fencing will keep him safe. Lots of toys and room to run will keep him happy. Keep in mind that Irish Wolfhound are truly enormous dogs, and they will sight-hunt as far as they can go -- be sure their fencing is tall, sturdy, and reliable if they are off leash in a backyard.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Puppies are small (relatively speaking) and explore a lot. Be sure that there is nothing that your Irish Wolfhound can get into, pull out, or chew that is not safe for him.