What is an Irish Wolfhound?

The Irish wolfhound is a breed of dog from the greyhound family that known for its very large size. The breed is very old, with records of the hound dating back to the fourth century. Its name comes from the fact that it was used in wolf hunting, not because it resembles a wolf. In addition to its skill as a hunting dog, it was also frequently used as a castle guard and was even taken to fight in battle alongside its owner throughout history.

On average, Irish wolfhounds are the tallest breed of dog, some are comparable in size to a small pony. They are usually around 32 to 34 inches (81 to 86 cm) in height and weigh around 120 pounds (54 kg). If an Irish wolfhound were to stand just on its hind legs, it would be more than 7 feet tall (2.1 m). It has a very rough coat that is usually white, black or gray, and underneath its coat is a very muscular body. Between its size and muscle mass, the Irish wolfhound is both exceptionally strong and fast.

Larger types of dogs such as the Irish wolfhound are not suitable pets for people who live in apartments or small houses. According to dog breeders, a large yard is an absolute necessity for a dog of its size. Since the wolfhound is a sighthound, it likes to pursue and chase animals outdoors, making the need for a large property and yard even more important.

Since most kennels are far too small for an Irish wolfhound, they should not be kept in them unless necessary. Trying to put one in a compact car would probably be difficult as well. In addition to the space requirements, keeping an Irish wolfhound is more expensive than keeping a smaller dog. It needs more food, and the food it eats should be of a higher-quality than typical dog food.

If a person has the space and means to keep an Irish wolfhound, it is generally regarded as being a great pet. The temperament of the breed is very mild, and it typically gets along with most people and even other animals, including cats. As long as it is trained early, and considering its size most dog experts recommend this, it is a very agreeable dog that follows commands easily. With its size comes a lack in coordination while it grows though, so patience is advised.

While the breed is unique and most consider it great for those with plenty of land and space, Irish wolfhounds are more prone to disease than many other breeds. Bone cancer and hip dysplasia are common ailments for the dog, and its life expectancy is lower than most breeds. Under ideal conditions an Irish wolfhound's life expectancy is only about six to eight years at the most.

The Irish Wolfhound is a breed with ancient roots, originally bred in Ireland for hunting wolves and large game. According to historical records, these dogs were revered by the nobility and often given as royal gifts. They are known for their impressive size and were mentioned in Roman records as early as 391 AD.

Irish Wolfhounds are one of the tallest dog breeds in the world. Males can stand at least 32 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh upwards of 140 pounds, while females are slightly smaller. Despite their size, they are known for their gentle demeanor and are often referred to as gentle giants.

The lifespan of an Irish Wolfhound is relatively short compared to smaller breeds, typically ranging from 6 to 8 years. Their large size contributes to a faster aging process, and they can be prone to certain health issues such as cardiac problems and bone cancer, which can affect their longevity.

Irish Wolfhounds are known for their calm and friendly temperament. They are patient and gentle, making them excellent companions, especially for families. Despite their hunting heritage, they are not aggressive and tend to be friendly towards strangers, other dogs, and pets, which speaks to their well-balanced nature.

Irish Wolfhounds require regular exercise to maintain their health and prevent boredom. A daily long walk or a play session in a securely fenced area is ideal. They enjoy having space to roam but are also content with lounging around after they've had their exercise, making them adaptable to various living situations.

Irish Wolfhounds are intelligent and respond well to training, especially when it's started early and conducted with patience and consistency. They are sensitive dogs and do best with positive reinforcement techniques. Their eagerness to please and laid-back nature can make training a rewarding experience for both the dog and the owner.