Irish Wolfhound

Get to Know Irish Wolfhounds

• Ancient Warriors’ Companions: Irish Wolfhounds were so revered in ancient Ireland that only kings and nobles were allowed to own them. They fought alongside warriors in battle, pulling men from horses and chariots—a testament to both their size and courage.
• Saved from Extinction: By the late 1700s, Irish Wolfhounds had nearly vanished after wolves were hunted out of Ireland. Their revival in the 19th century by Captain George Augustus Graham involved a carefully planned breeding program that reintroduced the breed using Great Danes and Scottish Deerhounds.
• Gentle Giants: Despite their imposing height, often standing over 7 feet tall when on their hind legs, Irish Wolfhounds are famously calm and affectionate. They’re sometimes called “gentle giants” because of their patience with children and their quiet, sensitive nature.
• The Tallest of All Breeds: The Irish Wolfhound holds the title as the tallest dog breed in the world, often surpassing even Great Danes in height. A mature male can easily reach 32–35 inches at the shoulder, creating an unforgettable silhouette.
• Legends & Literature: Irish Wolfhounds are woven into Celtic mythology and appear in ancient poems and tales as protectors and symbols of loyalty. The legendary hound Gelert, though often associated with Wales, is thought to have roots in Irish Wolfhound lore, reflecting how deeply this breed influenced storytelling across the British Isles.

Breed History

The Irish Wolfhound is one of the most ancient and storied dog breeds, with roots that trace back over 2,000 years in Ireland. Originally bred by Celtic chieftains to hunt large game such as wolves, elk, and wild boar, these massive hounds were prized for their strength, courage, and noble presence. Their impressive size and speed made them formidable hunters capable of taking down dangerous prey, and they were often gifted to royalty across Europe as symbols of prestige and power. By the 18th century, however, wolves had vanished from Ireland, and the breed nearly disappeared. The modern Irish Wolfhound was revived in the 19th century by Captain George Augustus Graham, who carefully crossbred the few remaining Wolfhounds with Great Danes, Scottish Deerhounds, and other large breeds to restore their grandeur. Today, the Irish Wolfhound is celebrated not for hunting, but for its gentle, loyal temperament and its place as a living piece of Irish heritage.

Personality and Behaviour

• Calm & Even-Tempered: Irish Wolfhounds are known for their quiet, relaxed nature. They’re not easily ruffled and tend to move through life with a composed, almost regal demeanor.
• Affectionate & Devoted: Deeply loyal to their families, they form strong emotional bonds and often seek gentle closeness rather than constant attention. They’re especially gentle with children and other pets.
• Noble Yet Sensitive: Beneath their impressive size lies a surprisingly sensitive soul. They respond best to kindness and positive reinforcement, and harsh treatment can easily discourage or upset them.

Care

• Training: Irish Wolfhounds benefit from early, gentle socialization and basic obedience training. They’re intelligent and eager to please but can be sensitive, so calm, positive reinforcement works best to build confidence and responsiveness.
• Exercise: Despite their giant size, they’re moderate exercisers. Daily walks and safe, open space to stretch their legs are essential, but they’re not built for intense or prolonged activity—especially while still growing.
• Grooming: Their rough, wiry coat needs weekly brushing to remove loose hair and prevent mats. Occasional hand-stripping or trimming helps maintain the coat’s texture, and regular nail, ear, and dental care keep them comfortable and healthy.