Breed Profile: Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest of the Sighthounds.  When standing on his hind legs, he is about six feet tall.

 

 

Some say that around 1500 BC, large dogs resembling today's Irish Wolfhound were brought from Greece to Ireland.  In 391 AD, in Rome, tales were told of such large dogs fighting wild animals in the arena.  In the eighteenth century, the Irish Wolfhound were used to hunt elk and wolves.  The dogs did such a good job, that elk and wolves were pretty much wiped out in Ireland, nearly putting the Wolfhound out of business.   

 

 

 

Some Irish Wolfhound Facts

 

-  height at shoulder:  30-35 inches

 

-  weight:  105-180 pounds

 

-  life span:  5-7 years

 

-  coat:  wiry, rough

 

-  coat colors:  gray, red, black, white, fawn, brindle

 

-  no longer used as a hunter, their current job is family member

 

 

 

Slow to mature, the Irish Wolfhound is not full grown physically nor emotionally until well after one year of age.  Once they are grown-up however, the Wolfhound is a calm, enchanting companion.  They are easy going, patient with children, other pets and other dogs.  Still, being a sighthound, these dogs retain the innate desire to chase assorted critters like deer and squirrels.

 

Irish Wolfhounds are big furry greyhounds that require exercise.  A long daily walk is usually adequate.  The Irish Wolfhound is intelligent and learns quickly.  Thus, he is prone to boredom with repetitive or drill style training.  

 

Those who live with Irish Wolfhounds usually describe them as sweet, gentle and affectionate but not effusively nor indiscriminately.

 

 

 

Irish Wolfhound Manifesto

 

-  I am not a couch potato, but I will take over the couch

 

-  if you want a watchdog, get a Terrier

 

-  I am not indifferent.  I am mellow  

 

 

 

 

 

See some nice pictures.

 

 

Next Breed Profile:   Golden Retriever!