Irish Wolfhound Dog Breed Description, History, Grooming, Health Issues and Living Conditions

Description: The Irish Wolfhound is one of the tallest breeds in the world with a height of 28-35 inches and a weight of 90-150 pounds. When stood on their hind legs, they can reach up to 7 feet. They have a long head, but it is not too broad. They have a long muzzle. The ears are back against the head, or part pricked when excited. They have a long neck that is strong and slightly arched. This breed has a wide and deep chest. The Irish Wolfhound has long legs that have round feet with arched toes. The long tail hangs downward and has a slight curve to it. The coat is shaggy and slightly wiry to the touch, making this a hard coat. With longer hair over the eyes and under the jaw colours include red, pure white or fawn, grey, black, brindle with grey being the most common colour.

History: The Irish Wolfhound breed was used, originally, as a wolf hunter, and this is how it gained its name, the wolfhound. The Romans' records show breed as far back as 391AD. This dog is commonly being used in wars and for guarding herds and property. Their main use, however, was for hunting the Irish elk, wolves, boar and deer. This breed was highly sought-after and battles were fought for ownership of these dogs. Over time, the Irish wolfhound has been given as a royal present to important dignitaries. In Ireland, the wolf population became extinct, and as a result, the Irish wolfhound declined in numbers. The British Army officer, whose name is Captain George Graham, bred them in the second half of the 19th century, using the great Dane and deerhound blood lines, to restore the Irish wolfhound. This breed was recognized by the AKC in 1897 and recognized by the kennel club as a sporting breed in 1925.

Temperament: The Irish Wolfhound is known for its sweet temper and is a very intelligent, thoughtful dog. This breed is willing and eager to please with a wholehearted loyalty to their family. They are slow to mature and have a clumsy nature, taking around two years before they are fully grown. This breed needs good, high-quality, food as they grow rapidly. Hard exercise should be avoided in the puppy, although they still need to have good daily walks. Basic training such as lead work needs to be carried out while the puppy is young and not having reached full strength. This dog is easy to train, and responds well to confident, gentle leadership. Giving this dog self-confidence, as a puppy, will help them develop into a well rounded dog emotionally. This breed gets on exceptionally well with other animals and can be trusted with children. Be sure to keep an eye on your dog with young children because this is a big breed, and they are prone to being clumsy. This dog needs to be part of a family and will be unhappy living outdoors. The Irish Wolfhound is part of the sight hounds group, and will enjoy chasing so a secure garden that is well fenced is important.

Health issues: The Irish Wolfhound dog is prone to bone cancer, PRA, cardiomyopathy, Von Willebrand, hip dysplasia and bloat.

Grooming: The Irish Wolfhounds coat will need regular thorough brushing. Once or twice a year the coat will need plucking, to remove the dead hair. The Irish wolfhound is an average shedder.

Living conditions: The Irish Wolfhound dog needs a large garden, and although not active indoors apartment living will not suit this breed. This is a large dog that will need some space, and even things like your car will have to be thought of in regard to its size.