Noble, kind, sweet and moderately active, Irish Wolfhounds are wonderful family pets.

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Don’t be mistaken, this isn’t a small pony. The Irish Wolfhound is one of tallest dog breeds in the world, standing around 80cms tall. Once bred for hunting wolves, they are now calm and slow loyal companions. Affectionately known as a gentle giant due to their sweet temperament, an Irish Wolfhound makes a great family pet. They are great with children as well as other pets if socialised from a young age. They love to snuggle and may stretch out across your feet or along the couch so be prepared to share your space.

They are not overly vocal and won’t often bark. Irish Wolfhounds aren’t great watch dogs. They are so gentle that intruders need not worry, however their giant size is often off putting for some. They are a sighthound so keep your pet leashed as they will take off after fast running objects. Some dogs show signs of separation anxiety so lots of pats and a good game of fetch will help to keep your pet happy.

Fun fact: An Irish Wolfhound, when standing on their hind legs,

can reach over two metres high, making them the tallest dog breed in the world.

Despite their size, Irish Wolfhounds don’t need extensive exercise. A daily stroll and a few games in the park will keep your pet happy. Avoid too much strenuous exercise or long distance walks under the age of two as it can cause bone developmental issues. Some Irish Wolfhounds can suffer from gas.

They are low maintenance – just brush the coat weekly with a stiff bristle brush and bathe every few weeks. Irish Wolfhounds shed moderately and are best suited to a large house with a yard due to their size.

Scheduled six-monthly health checks and visits to the vet are important to ensure your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. It’s important that together with your vet a preventative healthcare program is determined and maintained based on the individual needs of your canine companion. They are prone to bloat, gassiness, heart disease and joint and bone cancers. Irish Wolfhounds live for 6-8 years.

Size

Irish Wolfhounds are a giant-sized breed weighing 68-91kgs and standing 71-86cm tall.

Space

This breed suits a house with a yard due to their size.

Energy Levels

They like some exercise but not too much. Daily runs and lots of games are ideal for keeping this breed fit. 

Difficulty Of Training

They are extremely intelligent dogs making training a breeze.

Family suitability

Great family pets and loyal companion.

Suitability to other pets

They love to meet new friends, including cats and dogs if socialised from a young age.  

Need for company

They have a moderate to high need for company and enjoy playing games with their family.

Hypoallergenic dog breed?

No

Coat and grooming needs

This breed requires moderate maintenance. Brush weekly, bathe monthly and pluck their coats twice a year. They have a long coat in various colours such as grey, red, black, roe deer and white.

Shedding

They shed moderately.

Tendency to bark

They have a moderate tendency to bark so expect some conversation.

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