Irish Wolfhound

Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson Irish Wolfhound

Average size and lifespan

chihuahua silhouette
great dane silhouette
Height: 2ft 6in - 2ft 8in
Weight: 105-120lbs
Lifespan: 5 - 7 Years

Behavior

  • Affection5/5
  • Kid-Friendly3/5
  • Stranger-Friendly4/5
  • Dog-Friendly3/5
  • Barking Amount1/5

Care

  • Grooming Difficulty2/5
  • Shedding Amount3/5
  • Easy to Train2/5
  • Can Be Alone3/5
  • Exercise Need3/5

Environment

  • Cold Tolerance4/5
  • Heat Tolerance2/5
  • Apartment-Friendly4/5

Irish Wolfhound Information

Irish WolfhoundThe tallest of all the AKC breeds, the Irish Wolfhound is a big boy, weighing in at up to 120 pounds. The breed’s towering height and muscular body creates a commanding appearance. Its tough coat can come in a variety of colors including gray, white brindle, red, black and fawn. Back in the day, the Irish Wolfhound was used to hunt wolf and Irish elk – no easy task. Today the breed is primarily a family pet, with a calm, kind demeanor you wouldn’t expect from such a large, intimidating dog. Are you getting this breed? Check out our list of Irish Wolfhound name ideas.

All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. Please let us know if we made an error in the stats.

Breed FAQs

Can Irish Wolfhounds be apartment dogs?

The Irish Wolfhound does fine in apartments. They don't need lots of space, so they should adapt well to apartment living.

Can Irish Wolfhounds be left alone?

While Irish Wolfhounds prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.

Are Irish Wolfhounds good with kids?

Irish Wolfhounds can do fine with kids. They need some monitoring and training so they react well to unpredictable behavior.

Are Irish Wolfhounds friendly with strangers?

Typically, Irish Wolfhounds are friendly with strangers. They tend to be open and willing to trust people they don't know.

Do Irish Wolfhounds get along with other dogs?

Although Irish Wolfhounds will mostly get along with other dogs, they may have some issues that socialization can help.

Do Irish Wolfhounds bark a lot?

Irish Wolfhounds don't bark very often, and some may never bark. Most barking is trained or reserved for extreme situations.

Do Irish Wolfhounds shed a lot?

Irish Wolfhounds shed a medium amount. They have seasonal shedding, but they aren't terrible to clean up after.

Do Irish Wolfhounds need a lot of grooming?

Irish Wolfhounds don't require very much grooming. Typical maintenance and baths are enough.

Do Irish Wolfhounds need a lot of exercise?

A Irish Wolfhound needs a moderate amount of exercise. Plan some walks or a game of fetch during the day.

Are Irish Wolfhounds easy to train?

Most Irish Wolfhounds are stubborn and take extra work to train. They can still learn, but it takes more effort.

Can Irish Wolfhounds handle cold weather?

Irish Wolfhounds do well in cold weather. You may need to protect their paws, but they handle colder climates well.

Can Irish Wolfhounds handle hot weather?

Be careful with Irish Wolfhounds in the heat. They don't do well in hot climates for long periods.

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