About the breed
PERSONALITY
The Irish Wolfhound is often called the ‘gentle giant’ of the dog world. Their proud bearing, quiet dignity and intelligence are just some of their many wonderful characteristics. They are a family dog with an incredibly affectionate nature which thrives on human companionship.
Regardless of whether you are looking for a Wolfhound with show potential or as a family pet, he/she should be physically and temperamentally healthy, exhibiting the friendly characteristics and even disposition that is essential to a Wolfhound.
They are not a guard dog but their huge size and deep bark will usually deter unwanted visitors.
They are very gentle and patient with children and the elderly, and they have an uncanny knowledge if someone is really unwell.
HEALTH, FEEDING AND EXERCISE
AVERAGE LIFESPAN: 8-10 years.
HEIGHT: At the shoulder, a Wolfhound’s height can be up to 90cm, and they can weigh up to 80kg (or more).
DIET: Raising a puppy which grows as fast as an Irish Wolfhound requires special attention to diet and exercise. A detailed diet sheet will be provided by the breeder, together with details of how exercise and activity should be managed.
EXERCISE & SPACE:
A small backyard is sufficient as long as the dog is walked at least once a day. The Irish Wolfhound enjoys lying around most of the day but does enjoy stretching its legs both with a walk on a lead and a run. They are not jumpers, so normally there is no need for extra high fencing.
GROOMING
The Irish Wolfhound has a rough coat that does not require a lot of grooming unless he or she is preparing for the show ring. Regular grooming will keep their coat in good condition. If not groomed the coat can become very scraggy and knotted.
The breeder will provide you with information on how to groom for both the show ring and for a family home, as well as give you tips on the best types of brushes to use.
HISTORY
The origin of the Irish Wolfhound has been lost in antiquity, however from illustrations dating back to 1400BC we know that the Celts had huge hounds. This dog was the companion of kings – whether at war, on the hunt or just by the hearth.
We owe the preservation of the breed to Captain GA Graham, an English breeder who devoted his life to breeding what specimens he could find to prevent the extinction of the breed. If not for his dedication we might not have this wonderful breed today.
For those who are keen to learn more, there are many great books on their history.
BOOKS YOU MAY FIND HELPFUL
How to Raise and Train an Irish Wolfhound by F&M Westover
The Irish Wolfhound by Elizabeth C Murphy (the Club's Patron)
The Irish Wolfhound World of Dogs by Linda Gover
The Magnificent Irish Wolfhound by Mary McBryde