Irish Wolfhound Breed Guide
Also known as: IW, Irish Wolf
Gentle giants with ancient heritage, Irish Wolfhounds are calm, affectionate sighthounds whose noble bearing matches their impressive size perfectly.

Quick facts about this breed
Size
Giant
Weight
40-70 kg
Lifespan
6-10 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Giant
Weight
40-70 kg
Lifespan
6-10 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
About Irish Wolfhounds
The Irish Wolfhound is an ancient breed that originated in Ireland over 2,000 years ago, where they were bred to hunt wolves and elk. These gentle giants were so effective at their job that they nearly drove wolves to extinction in Ireland, and the breed itself almost disappeared as a result.
Irish Wolfhounds are among the tallest dog breeds, with rough, wiry coats in various colours including grey, brindle, red, black, and white. They're known for their commanding presence, gentle expressions, and calm, dignified temperaments.
These dogs are gentle, patient, and make excellent family pets despite their enormous size. They're known for their quiet, peaceful nature and their love of children. They require moderate exercise and are generally content with daily walks, though they need space to stretch their long legs. While generally healthy, potential concerns include bloat, heart conditions, and a relatively short lifespan. Early socialisation helps ensure they're well-adjusted, confident adults who can handle their substantial size appropriately.
Complete Care Guide for Irish Wolfhounds
Expert advice on keeping your Irish Wolfhound healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Proper nutrition forms the cornerstone of health for Irish Wolfhounds, requiring careful attention to both meal composition and feeding schedules. These gentle giants thrive on high-quality proteins combined with healthy fats, essential vitamins, and minerals from whole food sources. Their nutritional needs evolve throughout different life stages, necessitating regular adjustments to maintain optimal health.
Implementing a multiple-meal feeding schedule proves crucial for Irish Wolfhounds, as this practice significantly reduces their risk of developing bloat—a potentially fatal condition to which the breed is particularly susceptible. Rather than offering one large daily meal, divide portions into smaller servings spread throughout the day.
During the crucial puppy stage, maintaining steady, controlled growth takes precedence. Excessive weight gain can lead to skeletal issues, making it essential to monitor portion sizes and avoid overfeeding. Select premium-quality ingredients while steering clear of heavily processed foods, artificial preservatives, and unnamed meat sources.
Careful label reading becomes a vital habit, ensuring every meal supports your Irish Wolfhound's wellbeing. Focus on fresh, wholesome ingredients that provide balanced nutrition without unnecessary fillers or artificial additives. Regular consultation with veterinary professionals helps ensure dietary plans align with your dog's specific needs, activity level, and health status.
How healthy is your Irish Wolfhound?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Irish Wolfhounds from our community of pet parents
Irish Wolfhounds are known for their gentle, friendly and affectionate nature. Despite their large size, they are often referred to as gentle giants. They are patient with children and get along well with other animals. They are intelligent, which makes them relatively easy to train, but they also have a independent streak.
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