Irish Wolfhound

Dog Breed Profile

Irish Wolfhound History

The Irish Wolfhound is an Irish breed of domestic dog. It is the largest extant wolfhound, and was initially bred for hunting purposes. An ancient Irish legend says that the Irish Wolfhound was created from the union of a Fenian hero and a wolf. The modern Irish Wolfhound is descended from a line of great hounds that were brought to Ireland by the Vikings in the 9th century. The Celts had domesticated the grey wolf at the start of the first millennium BC, and the wolf was a significant part of their mythology. The Celtic peoples also loved dogs and used their hounds to hunt deer, boar, and elk. The Celts also introduced a few hounds to the Romans, who adopted them into their own systems.

Time of Origin

390

Country of Origin

Ireland

Ancestry

Great Dane, Scottish Deerhound

Irish Wolfhound Physical Characteristics

The Irish Wolfhound is a tall, heavy-set large-sized breed that typically stands between 30 and 34 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 125 and 180 pounds. They have a long, muscular, and rectangular body shape with a slightly rounded head. Their coat of hair, which is sometimes white, is thick and rough. They have wide, erect, well-shaped ears. Their nose and lips are dark in color and they have a strong jaw. They have dark eyes. They are strong, courageous dogs with great endurance.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 30 – 32 inches

Female Height Range: 28 – 30 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 100 – 120 lbs

Female Weight Range: 95 – 105 lbs

Irish Wolfhound Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

6-8 yrs

Irish Wolfhound Health Concerns

Gastric Torsion, Osteosarcoma, Cardiomyopathy, Hip Dysplasia, Osteochondritis Dissecans

Irish Wolfhound Temperament and Behaviour

The Irish Wolfhound is a gentle, loving, and sociable breed that makes a great family pet. They are gentle and patient, and do well with children of all ages. They are protective of their families, but are also friendly and outgoing with new people. Irish Wolfhounds are large and athletic, so they need daily exercise.

Irish Wolfhound Activity Requirements

The Irish Wolfhound is a large, muscular dog that was originally bred for hunting and guarding. This large, noble breed makes a loyal and devoted companion. While the Irish Wolfhound does not need a lot of exercise, they do require a couple of long walks each day. They will enjoy exploring outside and following their noses. While they do like to walk around the yard, they are usually too lazy and energetic to jog or run around. Irish Wolfhounds can be calm, gentle giants or rambunctious, playful puppies. It all depends on what type of personality they have.