Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhounds are an ancient breed that dates back long before the Roman Empire. In the year 391, the Romans received seven of these hounds who quickly proved to be majestic hunters. In Ireland around the 15th century, wolves were overrunning the countryside—that is until Wolfhounds were introduced, eventually causing them and most of the other native big game to go extinct in the 1700s. 

In 1862, Geroge Augustus Graham began scouring the country for Irish Wolfhounds and made it his life’s work to protect and promote the breed. Today his name is still spoken with admiration among Wolfhound fanciers and is greatly credited with their domestic success. 

Wolfhounds take a while to mature, up to four years on average. Owners who get younger dogs should be prepared and have realistic expectations that they will be living with a massive dog who won’t exhibit sensible adult behavior for roughly the first three years. There should be ample indoor, outdoor, and vehicle space for Wolfhounds to thrive.

Irish Wolfhounds are surprisingly active and fast given their size and they enjoy exercise, long walks, and regular daily play sessions in order to stay mentally and physically sharp.

Due to their large size, Irish Wolfhounds need a significant amount of indoor and outdoor space. A home with a securely fenced area is crucial. They should only be allowed to roam freely in areas where they can’t escape.

These hairy dogs possess a double coat consisting of a wiry outer covering and a soft undercoat. Irish Wolfhounds dogs don’t shed heavily in one season and instead, shed a moderate amount consistently throughout the year. A thorough brushing once or twice a week should do the trick to help keep them looking their best.

Wolfhounds are smart dogs and fast learners. Their desire to be around people and their sensitivity to humans make them excellent dogs for therapy work. 

Wolfhound puppies are known to be a little destructive and can easily get up to no good when left home alone for long periods. They do best when they can play with other dogs who are around their own age. Early socialization and puppy training classes with positive reinforcement methods are strongly suggested. Leash training is also key to mastering as a puppy if you have any hopes of being able to take them on walks as an adult. 

Irish Wolfhounds can make excellent family pets. They are quiet, friendly, and entirely devoted to their family. However, they may be too large of a dog to live with small children. Older children who can better comprehend that nothing is out of reach for an Irish Wolfhound are a much more safe and sensible option.

The cost of an Irish Wolfhound from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.