Datasheet Irish Wolfhound
Size:
Females at least 71 cm / males at least 79 cm
Life expectancy:
seven to twelve years
fur length:
short to medium length
coat structure:
wiry
Suitable as:
family dog
Behave:
headstrong, intelligent, good-natured, agile
Child friendly:
yes Ralf Roletschek, Irish-wolfhound-2001-3, CC BY-SA 3.0
The Irish Wolfhound is a shaggy family friend. In addition, the gentle giant is a popular companion because it is suitable for beginners and has no tendency towards aggression.
Breed characteristics and external appearance
The Irish Wolfhound impresses with its appearance and is one of the largest dog breeds in the world. Bitches are at least 71 cm and males at least 79 cm tall.
The minimum weight of 40.5 kg for the females and 54.5 kg for the males underlines the remarkable stature.
Despite these impressive values, the graceful four-legged friend does not show clumsiness or heaviness, but rather immense muscular strength.
Irish Wolfhounds have dark eye color and greyhound-like rose ears.
The coat is short to medium length with a wiry hair texture. The fur is particularly rough around the head and legs.
According to the breed standard of the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale), the Irish Wolfhound is recognized in the colors brindle, grey, red, black, white, yellow and brown.
essence and character
The Irish Wolfhound is gentle, patient and loving. Because of these traits and his compatibility with children, he is the ideal family dog.
The gentle giant is not suitable for kennel keeping because he always wants to be in social contact with his caregivers.
Due to its body size, the Irish Wolfhound may be a bit clumsy when cuddling and romping around with small dogs and children. Here he needs the watchful eye of his owner and, if necessary, correction.
In addition, the greyhound has a hunting past, which is why it still reacts strongly to movement stimuli today. Man must therefore carefully weigh up where and whether he can let his companion run free.
Canarian, Irish Wolfhound brindle 1, CC BY-SA 4.0
Origin and history of the breed
The origin of the Irish wolfhound probably dates back to 7,000 BC. attributed. At that time he was already called hunting mate deployed.
From the year 391 the existence of the dogs is documented in texts. While they used to hunt bears, wolves and lions, they have undergone a tremendous transformation to this day.
The former noble dog has established itself as a real family member. And this despite the fact that the breed almost became extinct in Ireland, its country of origin, in the 17th century.
In 1861 measures were introduced to preserve Irish dogs. From 1885 the Irish Wolfhound Club was founded, which created a standard and an organized breeding process.
Nutrition
The development and life expectancy of the Irish Wolfhound depends crucially on its diet.
The four-legged friend benefits most from a feed that is grain-free, meaty and natural is.
Artificial preservatives, industrially produced colors and flavors as well as fish and meat flour should not be included.
Care
Whether the dog reaches a high age depends, among other things, on how it is cared for. The dog owner should therefore establish a control routine in his everyday life.
This also means that people regularly check their four-legged friends for fleas, ticks, changes in the eyes, mouth and teeth.
Although the Irish Wolfhound has an undercoat, it is Coat very easy to care for. Occasional brushing is enough to prevent tangles and remove gross debris.
Health and race-related diseases
Overall, the Irish Wolfhound is one of the robust breeds that do not have any specific vulnerabilities.
Due to the body size, however, there is an increased risk of stomach torsion and problems with joint development and bone structure.
To one misalignment of the joints To prevent it, it is advisable that the dog is given supplements for healthy bone growth. In addition, he should not jump much and not climb stairs.
Puppies from reputable breeders are less likely to develop joint disease. However, despite excellent health, the Irish Wolfhound will only maximum 12 years old.
Paul Plummer from Purcellville, USA, Irish Wolfhound Puppy taking a nap, CC BY 2.0
Other Questions/User Questions
How much does an Irish Wolfhound cost? For purebred and healthy dogs from reputable breeders, there are prices of up to 2,200 euros.
Where to buy an Irish Wolfhound
The VDH (Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen) currently lists 36 German breeders including their residential address in its online directory.
Is the Irish Wolfhound a Beginner Dog?
Irish Wolfhounds are easy to train for beginners. Another benefit for inexperienced dog owners is the fact that most breed representatives are friendly, calm, and even-tempered.
Is the Irish Wolfhound Dangerous?
Irish Wolfhounds are not protective and are not prone to aggression.