Irish Wolfhound: Your Complete Guide

The tallest of all dog breeds, the Irish wolfhound is a lanky, lumbering giant with a gentle disposition and a shaggy coat. The breed originates from Ireland and has a history that dates back to the days of the Roman Empire.

It is a worthy breed of any rural family, though those in cramped accommodations may want to look towards a smaller breed.

For those worried about what this breed requires, we will go into just about everything concerning the wiry wolfhound. Below, we will cover everything from the history of this breed to the coat and much more!

Quick Look at the Irish Wolfhound

Here is a quick glance at this special breed in terms of its physical characteristics, lifespan, temperament, and grooming needs.

What Is the History of Irish Wolfhounds?

As early as 391, the first written account of Irish Wolfhounds was recorded. The letter from Quintus Aurelius Symmachus stated that Rome “viewed with wonder” the wolfhounds he had been given, and this positive reputation has continued until today. They were loved for a far different reason back then, however.

The massive mutts were initially used in Ireland as hunting dogs that could track and kill deer, wolves, elk, and even boar. Even more daunting, they would be used during military conflicts to grab mounted soldiers and pull them off their horses. Those wondering how such a gentle breed could be so fierce, the reason is simple – they were far different in size and temperament than they are now.

When the wolfhound had done its job at hunting so well that wolves became extinct in Ireland, its use became less about bringing down large animals. Instead, Irish wolfhounds became more about elevating their owner’s societal status. The breed has always been beloved throughout history, making them a fixture for higher society.

Unfortunately, they began to decline as the need for them diminished, and their popularity exported several wolfhounds to various parts of Europe. By 1836, it was believed that the original breed of Irish Wolfhound had gone the way of the wolf in Ireland.

Thankfully, for future wolfhound lovers around the globe, Captain George Augustus Graham of the British Army had a passion for the breed. He began collecting various other breeds that possessed strains of the original wolfhound. After some trial and error and frustration on George’s part, he found success by breeding the Scottish Deerhound and the Great Dane.

In 1885, the iconic Irish wolfhound that we are all familiar with today was officially accepted as a dog breed by the Royal Kennel Club.

What Do Irish Wolfhounds Look Like?

The Irish wolfhound has a regal bearing and a proud posture, whether by genetics or through centuries of being owned exclusively by European nobility. They come in various colors other than their well-known greyish hue. They can be black, white, red, silver, cream, fawn, and even blue, though this is less common.

The Irish wolfhound coat can range quite a bit, and while we typically expect gray, the diligent dog breed can vary in color.

What Size Is an Irish Wolfhound?

The Irish wolfhound is a sweet-tempered behemoth of a dog that stands taller than any other dog breed worldwide. These dogs can get as big as 34 inches, with the females standing a few inches shorter. They are somewhat lanky for a dog of their height, standing slightly narrow compared to other breeds of similar size.

While they may take every opportunity to climb onto your lap, you may want to avoid letting them jump up on you. To the surprise of no one who has seen an Irish wolfhound, they can weigh anywhere from 120 to 180 pounds. If you are going to get an Irish Wolfhound, don’t just expect a big dog – prepare for the biggest.

What Is an Irish Wolfhound’s Coat Type and Length?

Irish wolfhounds have a beautiful, wiry double coat, typically coarse in the outer layers. Along the face, they have long, stringy whiskers that create the impression of a beard along the nose and mouth of the breed. While they look endlessly shaggy from afar, their hair length isn’t excessively long and sits somewhere in the middle.

What Is an Irish Wolfhounds Temperament?

The Irish wolfhound doesn’t just look like your favorite grandparent – it acts like them, too. The wolfhound’s temperament is universally described as gentle, which is reassuring for anyone wary of their size. They enjoy the indoors and are well-suited to indoor living, particularly in houses without stairs.

They grow very devoted to the people and pets they surround themselves with, and while they will typically be friendly to everyone, they enjoy sticking with their family. The intelligent look is more than appearance; wolfhounds are very bright animals with a reputation for loyalty that goes back centuries.

While they require light to moderate daily exercise, they are more than happy to sit next to you on the couch for hours and enjoy the calm of their environment. They are very receptive to encouragement and will grow discouraged if you admonish them too harshly.

Due to their intelligence and built-in need for companionship, they will tend to mimic the characteristics of those around them, particularly in their early years. If you choose from a new bundle of wiry wolfhounds, try to ensure their parents have the personalities you would seek in an adult dog.

Getting them around other people and pets early in life will pay dividends later in their personality. Typically, the Irish wolfhound enjoys the company of his closest companions and the dim lighting of the indoors. If you don’t get your wolfhound into the public eye, they may be more introverted and shy than you may prefer.

Are Irish Wolfhounds Good With Kids?

Dog owners don’t have to worry about the Irish wolfhound being around children because of its calm demeanor, though its size is something to consider. Matching their docile temperament, wolfhounds get along quite well with toddlers. The problem is due to their massive frame; they can accidentally knock over or injure children, so you should observe them around kids.

Kids may also hesitate to approach them as they are likely one of the biggest dogs most will ever see. Contrarily, a friendly wolfhound is happy to walk up and say hello. Because of this, it is crucial to ensure that you have a close watch on the dog so as not to frighten or accidentally bump into kids.

As long as you raise the dog well and keep an eye on it, it will make a great companion for your kids and prove to be a great friend to anyone it lives with.

Are Irish Wolfhounds Good With Other Animals?

While their hunting instinct is not going away anytime soon, animals that they are raised with and introduced to will likely be fast friends with a wolfhound. Outside of their predicted nature, their upbringing and socialization will play a big part in how they approach other animals. Thankfully, they are not a breed that typically sees other dogs as threats.

For cat owners, if your cat is friendly and reasonably open to the idea of a shaggy horse-sized dog walking around the house, the wolfhound will likely get on fine with the cat. Feline compatibility comes down to individual temperament, though they tend to get along well with the animals they live with. However, if you have nomadic neighborhood cats, keep an eye on the dog, as they can be prone to chase strange animals.

Smaller animals that run away, hide, or flee from the dog may kick the wolfhound’s hunting genes into gear. Getting a 100+ pound animal to reign itself in is no easy task once it gains momentum. The best course of action is to ingratiate it early with smaller animals and avoid skittish or easily frightened pets.

Are Irish Wolfhounds Aggressive?

The Irish wolfhound is a very calm dog breed that is rarely mean or hostile. The caveat to this is early upbringing, and the animals and people it lives around will determine its temperament. The average Irish wolfhound, however, is so docile and sweet that it will make you wonder if you could be doing more to handle your own temper better.

If you are looking for a big dog, have experience owning canines, and want a breed you don’t have to worry about lashing out at you – the Irish wolfhound is ideal. The wolfhound is incredibly kindhearted and well-sought after for its agreeable nature.

Do Irish Wolfhounds Bark?

While they have a tremendous amount of bass to their bark, they rarely show it. This big dog tends to be seen more than heard, and outside of alerting owners, people will likely not hear it speak up much. It is not a good apartment dog, however. The wolfhound requires a decent amount of space, exercise, and a high fence.

Are Irish Wolfhounds Affectionate?

While you may come to regret how heavy the wolfhound is when he does cuddle up with you, the dog is happy to cozy up for hours. Wolfhounds have a more vital need for companionship than the average canine and may get anxious when left alone, to the detriment of furniture.

The massive breed has no qualms about hopping up on your lap and doing its best impression of a lap dog. They are a wonderfully affectionate breed, and if you want a buddy to warm up to after a long day, the Irish wolfhound is overjoyed to fill the role. If you are hesitant to get licked by a dog, you may want to bring a towel; they are quick to express their feelings.

Are Irish Wolfhounds Intelligent?

While they may not match the fluffy genius of a border collie, the Irish wolfhound is a very intelligent dog. The breed has been taught to hunt independently for centuries, and their ancestry has paid dividends in their cognitive ability. They may have dopey moments, but the Irish wolfhound regularly surprises owners with their mental aptitude.

Are Irish Wolfhounds Energetic?

Their physical appearance might indicate that they need an open pasture with miles of room to roam, though they are pretty tame. As puppies, owners should introduce them to walking slowly and never exceed a mile until they become more fully grown.

When full-grown, try to take them for walks daily or allow them time in a confined space to get their steps in. Try to skew their eating window and exercise, as running around too soon before or after eating can cause stomach issues for the pet.

Are Irish Wolfhounds Easy to Train?

They are reasonably easy to train and pick up on physical cues quite well. That being said, training younger wolfhounds can be a genuine hassle as they learn to adjust to their size and break everything along the way. They have a strong urge to see the world and will not always pay attention to whether you approve or not.

Because of their innate curiosity and will to wander, owners should ensure they roam around areas with high fences. Similarly, always walk them with a leash as a nearby bird or wandering squirrel could send the wolfhound into a full sprint.

Are Irish Wolfhounds Good Watchdogs?

There is some dispute over how good an Irish wolfhound can be as a watchdog, though it is not the ideal breed for those in the market. Their size and stature discourage would-be intruders, though they are too laid-back to actively watch through the window for potential threats.

If you are looking for a dog to guard your home, there are better breeds than the Irish wolfhound.

Are Irish Wolfhounds Good Service Dogs?

The Irish wolfhound is an excellent breed for certain services, particularly mobility help. They also work well as emotional support dogs due to their incredibly kind personalities. Unfortunately, Irish wolfhounds have a short lifespan compared to other animals, making their longevity a concern for people who need dedicated help for years to come.

How to Care for an Irish Wolfhound?

An Irish wolfhound should be in a home without stairs that has an ample, fenced-in backyard. They are not made to be outdoor dogs, and their coat can cause issues in hotter climates. They require regular walks to make sure they stay fit and healthy.

Additionally, avoid areas where they can chase things, as they will get tunnel-vision and could become injured.

If you build a fence, ensure it is at least five feet tall and not an invisible or electric fence. The large dog will not respond to a warning jolt if a scurrying rabbit is on the opposite end.

Do You Need to Groom an Irish Wolfhound?

The breed may look like it requires constant grooming; thankfully, the shedding is not nearly as bad as it may seem. A thorough brushing once a week should be more than sufficient. A bath twice a year (depending on what they get into) should also do the trick, though that will depend more on your area.

Do Irish Wolfhounds Shed?

They may not change the color of your furniture with their shedding, but it is still worth avoiding Irish wolfhounds for those with allergies. They will shed continually year-round, but with decent grooming on the owner’s part, they can still keep their clothes one uniform color.

What Health Problems Do Irish Wolfhounds Have?

Sadly, the Irish wolfhound suffers from certain health issues due to their size and genetics. The most common medical afflictions are hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, heart disease, von Willebrand disease, and liver shunt.

Avoiding stairs, separating meal time and exercise time, and monitoring their food intake can alleviate several of these medical issues in the long term.

How Long Do Irish Wolfhounds Live?

The most significant barrier to entry for most would-be Irish wolfhounds is their lifespan. The breed, on average, will live between 6 – 8 years and may have health issues later in life.

What Should an Irish Wolfhound Eat?

Eating four to eight cups of dry food is ideal for an adult Irish wolfhound. Their diet will vary depending on the size and gender of the dog. Before buying a food brand, check that it is compatible with your dog’s breed.

While the growing Irish wolfhound puppy can eat quite a bit, meals should be spread out throughout the day. The breed can have medical issues if they overeat, and the younger they are, the worse they can be at knowing when they are full.

Is an Irish Wolfhound the Right Dog for Me?

The Irish wolfhound is excellent if you are looking for a massive, cuddly companion who is gentle, reserved, and friendly. If you are looking for a guard dog, apartment animal, or a pet with a long lifespan, they should be avoided. Similarly, if you already own smaller pets that are skittish or skeptical, the wolfhound may cause problems in the household.

While veteran canine enthusiasts love the breed, they are hardly suitable for first-time dog owners. They require a lot of research, exercise, and experience training animals. Similarly, you should have first-hand experience with owning a dog before buying one that could knock you over.