Irish Wolfhound
Updated December 1, 2025
The Irish Wolfhound is a noble, calm, and loyal breed originally used to hunt large game. Despite their imposing appearance, they are affectionate and loving pets that do best in peaceful homes.
Gentle, Loyal, Calm, Dignified, Intelligent
115-180 pounds
30-35 inches
6-8 years
Gray, Brindle, Red, Black, White, Fawn
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is a noble, calm, and loyal breed originally used to hunt large game. Despite their imposing appearance, they are affectionate and loving pets that do best in peaceful homes.
What Makes Irish Wolfhounds Special
Despite their size, Irish Wolfhounds are among the gentlest of all dog breeds.
They form strong bonds with their families and are generally quiet and reserved.
They need space to stretch out and thrive in calm, loving homes.
Irish Wolfhound History & Origin
The Irish Wolfhound is an ancient breed dating back to antiquity in Ireland. Historically used for hunting wolves and protecting livestock, they were valued for their size, strength, and courage.
Mentions of the breed can be traced back to 391 AD in Roman records.
They were once gifted to nobility and used as war dogs.
By the 19th century, they nearly went extinct, but Captain George A. Graham led efforts to revive the breed.
Today's Irish Wolfhounds are more companion dogs than hunters, known for their gentle and serene nature.
Irish Wolfhound Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Irish Wolfhound Appearance
Irish Wolfhounds are the tallest of all dog breeds, with a commanding but gentle appearance.
Their wiry coat and long limbs give them a noble, rugged look.
Their eyes exude kindness and their bodies are built for strength and endurance.
Physical Features
Ears
Small, rose-shaped, held back close to the head
Eyes
Dark, oval-shaped with a thoughtful, gentle gaze
Nose
Black and slightly pointed, prominent on the face
Coat & Build
Coat Length
Medium-length, rough and wiry with minimal feathering
Coat Color
Comes in gray, brindle, red, black, white, or fawn
Tail
Long, slightly curved and carried low when relaxed
Irish Wolfhound Temperament
Irish Wolfhounds are known for their calm and dignified presence. Despite their size, they are gentle and affectionate with their families.
They are not aggressive by nature and get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized.
These dogs are quiet and reserved indoors, preferring to lounge close to their humans.
Though not ideal as watchdogs, they may act protectively if their family is threatened.
Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them responsive to training, though they can have an independent streak.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Irish Wolfhounds have a short lifespan due to their giant size. They are prone to several genetic and size-related health conditions.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Routine vet visits, heart screening, joint health supplements, careful diet and weight monitoring
How to Care for a Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are low-energy indoors and require moderate daily exercise, regular grooming, and careful monitoring of health due to breed-specific conditions.
Grooming
Brush weekly with a slicker brush or grooming mitt to reduce shedding and maintain coat health.
Trim nails monthly and check ears weekly for signs of infection.
Bathing should be done every few months or as needed.
Their rough coat does not mat easily but should be hand-stripped occasionally to maintain texture.
Training
Irish Wolfhounds respond well to calm, positive reinforcement training.
Early socialization is important to ensure a confident, well-adjusted adult dog.
Due to their size, training basic manners like leash walking and impulse control is essential.
Keep training sessions short and positive to maintain engagement.
Diet
Feed a diet specially formulated for giant breeds to support bone and joint development.
Avoid overfeeding or excessive calcium, especially during puppyhood, to prevent orthopedic issues.
Provide fresh water at all times and monitor weight regularly.
Due to bloat risk, avoid vigorous exercise around feeding times and feed multiple small meals.
Exercise
Daily walks and free play in a secure yard are ideal.
Avoid intense activity in young puppies to prevent joint issues.
Adult Irish Wolfhounds enjoy calm walks and the occasional run, though they are not high-energy.
Mental enrichment with toys and puzzle games helps prevent boredom.
Environment
Best suited for homes with large yards or open space.
Not ideal for apartment living due to their size.
Prefer cool climates and should not be kept in hot or humid environments without shade and ventilation.
They are family-oriented and do best when not left alone for extended periods.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
Large space preferred, indoor lounging and outdoor roaming
Climate Adaptability
Cool to temperate climates ideal
Apartment Living
Not recommended
Best Suited For
Best for calm homes with space and gentle routines
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Irish Wolfhounds good with kids?
Yes, they are gentle and patient with children, but supervision is necessary due to their size.
Do Irish Wolfhounds need a lot of exercise?
They need moderate daily exercise, but not intense activity, especially during puppyhood.
How long do Irish Wolfhounds live?
Typically 6 to 8 years, which is common for giant breeds.
Are they good apartment dogs?
No, their size and need for space make them unsuitable for apartment living.
How much grooming do they need?
Minimal grooming is required. Weekly brushing and occasional baths are sufficient.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Limit strenuous exercise, train for handling and social exposure, feed proper large-breed puppy food
Senior Care
Monitor joints and heart, reduce activity, provide orthopedic bedding
First-Time Owner Tips
May be overwhelming for first-time owners due to size and health risks
Looking for a Irish Wolfhound?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.