Dog Breeds - Irish Wolfhound

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a dog breed is known for can often dictate how they interact with family members or other well-known individuals. It's common to see certain breeds that maintain a dignified distance from everyone aside from their owner, whereas others approach familiar individuals with the enthusiasm of a lifelong friend.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
Breeds differ in their tolerance toward the playful and sometimes unpredictable behavior of children, as well as their adaptability within a family setting. However, it is essential to carefully monitor all dog-child interactions, particularly with youngsters or those not accustomed to canine behavior.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The predisposition for dog breeds to display congeniality towards other dogs can be inherent; yet, supervision is essential during their mingling. Some breeds boast a higher likelihood of seamless integration with their peers in both domestic and social settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The volume of fur and hair a breed sheds may vary, with high-shedding dogs necessitating more regular grooming. These breeds often demand extra diligence with cleaning, as they can exacerbate certain allergies and increase the need for frequent vacuuming and use of lint rollers.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming demands of a dog breed, including the need for baths, brushing, and haircuts, can vary significantly. When weighing up the necessary grooming effort reflect on your available time, level of patience and grooming budget. Remember regardless of the breed all dogs will need their nails trimmed regularly.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
A breed's predisposition to drooling might be a consideration for the tidiness-minded individual. If the thought of slobbery kisses leaving streaks on your clothes or arms doesn't appeal to you then a less drool-heavy breed could be a better fit.
COAT TYPE +
Wiry
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The likelihood of a breed being open and friendly with strangers varies significantly. Certain breeds may consistently display wariness around people they don't know well while others are always up for making a new human acquaintance.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
Playfulness is a trait that some dog breeds carry from the spirited days of puppyhood into their adulthood. It's not uncommon for such breeds to enthusiastically participate in a game of fetch or tug-of-war even as they grow older, though others might prefer a more laid-back lifestyle, happily curling up beside you for some relaxation.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Certain breeds are known for their vigilance and will not hesitate to let you know when someone approaches distinguishing little between a potential intruder and the neighborhood mail delivery. However, these very breeds often adjust their demeanor to warmly receive newcomers once they observe these individuals being accepted by their human pack.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
A dog breed's adaptability to change varies; this encompasses adjustments in living situations, noise levels, climate, routines and other everyday life fluctuations. While some breeds may take these variations in stride, others might need more time and assistance to acclimate.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training a dog and its eagerness to embrace new skills can differ significantly by breed. Certain breeds seem to live to delight their owner grasping new commands with enthusiasm, while others exhibit an independent streak following their own whims on their terms.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The intensity of exercise and mental enrichment needed by a dog breed can be quite variable. Energetic breeds are constantly on the lookout for new stimuli and vigorous activities that will satiate their zest for life; they are seldom found without a sense of purpose or activity. Meanwhile, breeds with lower energy levels are the epitome of relaxation often content to idle the day away in peaceful slumber.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency and manner in which a dog breed vocalizes can cover a broad spectrum, from incessant barking at every distraction to more reserved breeds that seldom make noise. While some dogs will alert you to every passerby or bird with a bark others reserve their vocalizations for more specific scenarios. Additionally, there are breeds known for being virtually barkless yet they may use alternative sounds, such as whining, yodeling, or chirping, to communicate.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The level of mental engagement necessary to satisfy a breed's innate curiosity and intelligence should not be underestimated. Particularly for those breeds developed for specific roles—such as herding, hunting or retrieving—mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity. Absent tasks that stimulate their intellect such dogs may invent less-than-ideal alternative activities which can include anything from destructive chewing to incessant digging.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a dog breed is known for can often dictate how they interact with family members or other well-known individuals. It's common to see certain breeds that maintain a dignified distance from everyone aside from their owner, whereas others approach familiar individuals with the enthusiasm of a lifelong friend.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

Breeds differ in their tolerance toward the playful and sometimes unpredictable behavior of children, as well as their adaptability within a family setting. However, it is essential to carefully monitor all dog-child interactions, particularly with youngsters or those not accustomed to canine behavior.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The predisposition for dog breeds to display congeniality towards other dogs can be inherent; yet, supervision is essential during their mingling. Some breeds boast a higher likelihood of seamless integration with their peers in both domestic and social settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The volume of fur and hair a breed sheds may vary, with high-shedding dogs necessitating more regular grooming. These breeds often demand extra diligence with cleaning, as they can exacerbate certain allergies and increase the need for frequent vacuuming and use of lint rollers.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming demands of a dog breed, including the need for baths, brushing, and haircuts, can vary significantly. When weighing up the necessary grooming effort reflect on your available time, level of patience and grooming budget. Remember regardless of the breed all dogs will need their nails trimmed regularly.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

A breed's predisposition to drooling might be a consideration for the tidiness-minded individual. If the thought of slobbery kisses leaving streaks on your clothes or arms doesn't appeal to you then a less drool-heavy breed could be a better fit.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Wiry

COAT SPECTRUM

Medium

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The likelihood of a breed being open and friendly with strangers varies significantly. Certain breeds may consistently display wariness around people they don't know well while others are always up for making a new human acquaintance.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

Playfulness is a trait that some dog breeds carry from the spirited days of puppyhood into their adulthood. It's not uncommon for such breeds to enthusiastically participate in a game of fetch or tug-of-war even as they grow older, though others might prefer a more laid-back lifestyle, happily curling up beside you for some relaxation.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Certain breeds are known for their vigilance and will not hesitate to let you know when someone approaches distinguishing little between a potential intruder and the neighborhood mail delivery. However, these very breeds often adjust their demeanor to warmly receive newcomers once they observe these individuals being accepted by their human pack.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

A dog breed's adaptability to change varies; this encompasses adjustments in living situations, noise levels, climate, routines and other everyday life fluctuations. While some breeds may take these variations in stride, others might need more time and assistance to acclimate.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training a dog and its eagerness to embrace new skills can differ significantly by breed. Certain breeds seem to live to delight their owner grasping new commands with enthusiasm, while others exhibit an independent streak following their own whims on their terms.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The intensity of exercise and mental enrichment needed by a dog breed can be quite variable. Energetic breeds are constantly on the lookout for new stimuli and vigorous activities that will satiate their zest for life; they are seldom found without a sense of purpose or activity. Meanwhile, breeds with lower energy levels are the epitome of relaxation often content to idle the day away in peaceful slumber.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Infrequent

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The level of mental engagement necessary to satisfy a breed's innate curiosity and intelligence should not be underestimated. Particularly for those breeds developed for specific roles—such as herding, hunting or retrieving—mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity. Absent tasks that stimulate their intellect such dogs may invent less-than-ideal alternative activities which can include anything from destructive chewing to incessant digging.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black	007
Brindle	057
Cream	076
Gray	100
Gray & Brindle	102
Red	140
Red & Brindle	142
Red Wheaten	156
Silver	176
Wheaten	224
Wheaten & Brindle	225
Blue	037
White	199

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Markings	002
Gray Markings	028
White Markings	014

About The Breed

The Irish wolfhound greets you with a serene and noble presence, ascending as the most statuesque member among the AKC's recognized breeds. Once the valiant hunters of large game with the prowess to vanquish a wolf in solo battle today's Wolfhounds embody tranquility and conviviality, making them unparalleled companions.

This affable giant boasts a towering, athletic build with an elegant resemblance to the classic Greyhound, endowing it with remarkable swiftness when sprinting. A full-grown male may reach an impressive stature of almost three feet at the withers and tip the scales at around 180 pounds. While the females present a somewhat smaller stature they are by no means diminutive. Their coarse resilient fur is a visual tapestry presenting an array of hues such as white, gray, brindle, red, black and fawn.

Irish Wolfhounds possess a demeanor too gentle for the role of a formidable guard yet the mere sight of these towering canines is often ample to discourage potential trespassers. Renowned for their infinite patience with children Irish Wolfhounds make affectionate family members though their considerable size warrants cautious supervision around the little ones. To invite an Irish wolfhound into your life is to embrace a uniquely gratifying journey—a commitment as substantial as the magnificent hound itself.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A IRISH WOLFHOUND

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Irish Wolfhound: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	As is the case with many sizable, deep-chested breeds, Irish Wolfhounds are susceptible to bloat, a rapid and severe inflation of the belly that can be life-threatening. It's essential for owners to be well-informed about the signs of bloat and to know the immediate steps to take if it arises. Ethical breeders are committed to the health of their dogs and routinely test their stock for various health and genetic issues including pneumonia heart conditions specific cancers and liver shunt. It's advisable to have your Wolfhound undergo an annual health check-up ideally by a vet who has expertise with sighthounds which should encompass an EKG. For those seeking a comprehensive understanding of Irish wolfhound health the American Kennel Club’s breed club, the Irish Wolfhound Club of America along with its affiliated Irish Wolfhound Foundation offers an abundance of detailed health information on their websites. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Hip Evaluation Cardiac Exam Elbow Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation Serum Bile Acids

Grooming

	The Irish wolfhound sports a distinct double-layered coat with a coarse and wiry exterior layer over a softer underlayer. They experience year-round shedding which is generally moderate. Consistent grooming including a comprehensive brushing weekly, will help eliminate dirt and loose fur ensuring the wolfhound maintains a groomed appearance. Unlike some other double-coated breeds Irish Wolfhounds do not undergo a heavy shedding phase or 'coat blow' on a seasonal basis. Regular maintenance should include nail trimming to prevent discomfort, as overgrown nails can lead to distress and hinder the wolfhound’s mobility and zest for running.

Exercise

	Irish Wolfhounds require consistent exercise at every stage in their lives. Their innate predilection for the chase means they should only roam free within the confines of a securely fenced area, and leashed expeditions are a must. As grown dogs they may exhibit a fondness for leisurely lounging yet it's crucial to maintain a routine of regular physical activity such as extended strolls or interactive play to foster both their physical and psychological well-being. To cater to their need for space and exercise a residence with a sizeable, fenced-in yard is ideal for these hounds to flourish. Additionally, engaging in dog sports like tracking, agility and lure coursing can offer a fulfilling outlet for both mental engagement and physical exertion for this breed.

Training

	Irish wolfhound puppies require upwards of 18 months to fully mature and during this time, they can exhibit quite a bit of destructive behavior with a risk of self-injury if left by themselves for too long. It's important to balance their energy with proper outlets allowing them the chance for suitable free play. However, it's crucial that they don't roughhouse with fully-grown dogs or engage in overly strenuous activities. Early socialization and participation in puppy training sessions that employ positive reinforcement techniques are strongly suggested to foster good behavior. These intelligent canines are quick to pick up new skills thanks to their sharp minds. Known for their affectionate nature Irish Wolfhounds seek out the companionship of their human families and thrive on interaction. Their empathetic disposition towards people is what often makes them superb therapy dogs providing comfort and support to those in need.

Nutrition

	An Irish Wolfhound should be nourished with premium dog food tailored to their specific life stage—puppy, adult or senior—and ideally crafted for large-breed nutritional requirements to ensure they receive the essential nutrients they need. Due to their susceptibility to bloat it's crucial to avoid vigorous exercise shortly before or after their meals. Consulting with both the dog's breeder and your veterinarian is advisable if you have queries or issues regarding your hound’s weight management dietary needs or mealtime routine.

Historiography

The profound legacy of the Irish wolfhound is rooted deep in history's tapestry, and over time it has been adorned with a sheen of tales and myths. It's generally agreed that they originated from crossbreeding the sizable native dogs of Britain with swift coursing hounds from the Middle East an endeavor facilitated by some of the earliest forms of international commerce. When the Roman Empire began to lay its groundwork on the British terrain, these formidable Irish canines were already well-established. A noteworthy moment in 391 saw a Roman consul receiving seven Wolfhounds, captivating all of Rome with their grandeur.

Adorned with a juxtaposition of nature, “Gentle when stroked, fierce when provoked,” these noble hunters tracked formidable games such as the now-vanquished Irish elk, a formidable creature noted to have reached six feet at the shoulder. The 15th century saw Ireland besieged by wolves and these esteemed hunters adapted and focused their sights especially on this new threat. By the 18th century the successful extermination of wolves and other large Irish game almost rendered the Wolfhounds obsolete and endangered their very existence a paradox of their own proficient hunting abilities.

It wasn't until 1862 that Captain George Augustus Graham, an officer in the British army, committed himself to the revival of this iconic breed. Graham devoted his life to the rescue, definition, and enhancement of the Irish wolfhound securing his revered legacy within the community of breed enthusiasts. Woven into the cultural fabric of Ireland is a host of stories inspired by these hounds none more evocative than the sorrowful narrative of "Gelert the Faithful Hound," which speaks volumes of loyalty and the bitter weight of regret.