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IRISH WOLFHOUND — BREED DESCRIPTION & INFORMATION
Breed Description / Health Issues / Breed Standards / Grooming / Training / Additional Information
Breed Description
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| Breed Registries: |
- Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) - Hound Group
- American Kennel Club (AKC) - Hound Group
- United Kennel Club (UKC) - Sighthounds and Pariah Dogs
- The Kennel Club [U.K.] (KC) - Hounds
- Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) * - Standard No. 160
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Note: The breed registries indicated above are the most recognized all-breed registries. The breed may also be recognized by other registries not indicated here. For further details about dog registries, please see the document: Dog Breed Registries in North America.
* — The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is the World Canine Organisation, which includes members (one member per country) that each issue their own pedigrees and train their own judges. The FCI recognizes 332 breeds, with each being the "property" of a specific country. The FCI is not a breed registry nor does it issue pedigrees. |
| Origin: |
Ireland |
| Height: |
Males — Minimum height is 32 inches (81 cm) — Average about 34-35 inches
Females — Minimum height is 30 inches (76 cm) — Average about 32-34 inches |
| Weight: |
Males — Minimum weight is 120 lbs (54 kg)
Average weight for Males is generally 140-180 pounds
Females — Minimum weight is 105 lbs (47.5 kg)
Average weight for Females is generally 115-140 lbs. |
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The Irish Wolfhound, named as the national dog of Ireland, is the world's tallest breed of dog, standing up to 6 feet 4 inches on his hind legs. He is an ancient breed of the Greyhound family, believed to have descended from the Cu, a giant, rough-coated type of Greyhound. Legend has it that the Cu was a ferocious dog in battle, a tenacious courser of large game and a trustworthy guardian. Originally, he was used to hunt wolves and elk and to accompany Irish nobles to war.
The Irish Wolfhound is among the gentlest of breeds. However, he can be very fierce and intimidating when defending his home and family. A very social dog, he thrives on human companionship and should not be left alone for extended periods. Known as the "Gentle Giant", he is excellent with children and generally good with other dogs. His combination of power and swiftness with keen sight makes him good at lure coursing.
His coat is rough and hard and especially long and wiry over the eyes and under the jaw. He is either grey, brindle, red, black, fawn, or pure white.
A Note of Caution: The Irish Wolfhound is not the breed for everyone. He is an expensive dog to purchase and maintain, needing more food, more space, more exercise, and more of just about everything than the average size dog. One of the biggest negatives about the breed is their short lifespan, with the average being 6 to 8 years. On a positive note, if you can give him all that he needs, you will be rewarded with the beauty, gentleness, and loyal companionship of a true Gentle Giant.
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Health Issues:
Like all breeds of dogs, the Irish Wolfhound is susceptible to certain health problems. The document Irish Wolfhound Health Issues outlines some of the more common disorders found in this breed. If you are considering the adoption of a Irish Wolfhound puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Health Resources:
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Breed Standards:
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AKC IRISH WOLFHOUND VIDEO
21 Min. Video Edition, Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com
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Grooming:
Similar to other rough-coated breeds, the Irish Wolfhound's coat should be brushed daily to maintain a healthy condition. Regular checks for parasites should also be done as well as maintenance of the ears. Toe nails should be kept trimmed.
- Grooming — See this section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for additional information, tips and articles on Grooming as well as listings of Groomers from across Canada.
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Training Resources:
- Training — For information on training your Irish Wolfhound, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
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Additional Information:
- IWPedigrees.com — An internet resource for Irish Wolfhound breeders
- The Irish Wolfhound Foundation — The purpose of the Foundation is to promote the appreciation, knowledge, and understanding of Irish Wolfhounds by raising and allocating funds for research, education, and rescue.
- Judging Irish Wolfounds - A Guide — Published and Distributed by The Irish Wolfhound Club of America, Inc.
- The Inside Scoop — Irish Wolfhound Canadian Kennel Club Breed History
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — For information on the many sports and activities you can get involved in with your Irish Wolfhound. (Note: Breed specific clubs can be found under the Breed Clubs secton.)
- Working Dogs — The Working Dogs section of Canada's Guide to Dogs provides information and listings of organizations who are involved in various jobs, such as Guide Dogs, Therapy Dogs, Police Dogs, Protection Dogs, and much more.
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