Irish Wolfhound Dog Breed Information:
The Irish Wolfhound dog breed was originally used in war to drag men off horses and chariots. They also hunted large game such as deer, boar, and wolves. Today this adaptable dog is a family companion who also competes in obedience, tracking, and lure coursing.
Irish Wolfhound Dog Group: Hound Dogs.
Irish Wolfhound Height: 32 to 35 inches tall at the shoulder.
Irish Wolfhound Weight: 115 to 180 pounds.
Irish Wolfhound Life Span: 6 to 8 years.
More About This Dog Breed:
Irish Wolfhounds require at least 40 minutes of daily exercise and do best in a home with a large fenced yard. Irish Wolfhounds are not recommended for apartment living. The Irish Wolfhound is a gentle dog who usually gets along well with everyone. With early socialization and training, he'll be gracious toward other dogs and forbearing of indoor cats.
Irish Wolfhound History:
The Irish wolfhound is one of the oldest breeds in existence. It was developed by monks who needed an animal that could hunt down and kill wolves, which were considered dangerous pests at the time. The breed has been around for over 1,000 years. Throughout history, the Great Hound of Ireland has been a marvel wherever he went. Roman consul Aurelius wrote in 391 AD that "all Rome viewed with wonder" the seven Irish Wolfhounds that had been sent to him as a gift.
Irish Wolfhound Size:
A male Irish Wolfhound stands at least 32 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs at least 120 pounds. The Irish Wolfhound female is at least 30 inches tall and 105 pounds. Many are larger. Males usually average 34 to 35 inches and 140 to 180 pounds; females 32 to 34 inches and 115 to 140 pounds.
Irish Wolfhound Personality:
Intelligent and gentle, the Irish Wolfhound has a strong desire for human companionship. With his family, he's calm, dignified, and responsive. He's sensitive and must be trained using positive reinforcement such as praise and food rewards. Harsh words or physical punishment will cause him to shut down.
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Irish Wolfhound Health:
Irish Wolfhounds are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they're prone to certain health conditions. Not all Irish Wolfhounds will get any or all of these diseases:
Hip Dysplasia.
Anesthesia Sensitivity.
Elbow Dysplasia.
Liver Shunt.
Heart Disease.
Fibrocartilaginous Embolic Myelopathy.
Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD).
Osteosarcoma.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA).
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat).
Irish Wolfhound Care:
Despite his great size, the Irish Wolfhound is a housedog. Irish Wolfhound adults need a couple of 20-minute play times where they can run freely every day. Puppies need free play in a securely fenced yard, but limit running to only a few minutes a day.
Irish Wolfhound Feeding:
Recommended daily amount: 4 to 8 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Irish Wolfhound Coat Color And Grooming:
The Wolfhound coat is rough and hard. The hair on the eyes and under the jaw is wiry and long. A pet-quality Irish Wolfhound may have a softer or longer coat, but that doesn't affect his ability to be a companion. Coat colors are gray, brindle, red, black, white, or fawn. Brush your dog weekly to keep the coat healthy. Brush your dog's teeth at least two or three times a week to remove tartar buildup and the bacteria that lurk inside it. Trim nails once or twice a month if your dog doesn't wear them down naturally to prevent painful tears and other problems.
Irish Wolfhound with Children And Other Pets:
Irish Wolfhounds are gentle with children, but simply because of their large size they can accidentally knock toddlers down and scare or injure them. They're best suited to homes with older children. With early socialization and training, your Irish Wolfhound should get along well with other dogs.