If you’ve ever spotted an Irish wolfhound striding across a village green or curled up beside the hearth, you’ll know they leave quite an impression.
This enormous hound can tower above a human when stood up on its hind legs, but it's also revered for its calm, quiet nature and loving temperament.
How big is the Irish wolfhound?
The Irish wolfhound is considered the biggest recognised pedigree dog breed in the UK and among the tallest in the world, according to The Kennel Club.
Adult males typically stand at least 80cm at the shoulder, with some reaching 90cm or more. Females are slightly shorter, but still larger than most dog breeds. Despite their height, these dogs are not stocky – they’re built like athletes, long-limbed and graceful.
What does the Irish wolfhound look like?
The Irish wolfhound has a rough, wiry coat that gives it a rugged, windswept look – ideal for bounding across moorland or through dense woodland.
Coat colours vary from grey and brindle to fawn, black and white. With their long heads, deep chests and dark, soulful eyes, Irish wolfhounds carry the air of something ancient – a look that harks back to their Celtic roots.
According to The Kennel Club, it is thought that sailors brought dogs similar to greyhounds from the Middle East to Ireland, where they were crossed with mastiffs. These giants were popular for a time – used to scare off wolves, which gave rise to the nickname 'wolfdogs of Ireland' – but became very rare in the mid 18th century. The breed was later revived by British Army officer, historian and dog breeder Captain George Augustus Graham.
Irish wolfhound temperament
Don’t be fooled by their size. These dogs are as gentle as they come. They’re famously calm around children and bond well with their families. Although historically they have a strong prey drive (remember those wolves?), modern Irish wolfhounds are more likely to chase a squirrel than anything more ambitious.
How long do Irish wolfhounds live?
One of the heartbreaks of owning an Irish wolfhound is their relatively short lifespan. Most live between 6 to 8 years, though some may reach 9 or 10 with good care. Their rapid growth and large size make them prone to certain health issues, so regular veterinary check-ups are essential.
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How much exercise do Irish wolfhounds need?
According to The Kennel Club, they require more than 2 hours of exercise per day. They love a good roam, but they’re also more than happy to snooze for hours beside the fire.
The Irish wolfhound is a 'vulnerable' breed
The breed is officially classified as ‘vulnerable’ by The Kennel Club, with an average of fewer than 300 puppies registered annually in the UK.
Living with an Irish wolfhound
This is not a breed for everyone. Their sheer size makes them unsuited to small homes or city flats. They need space – both inside and out – and soft bedding for their large frames.
Main image: Irish wolfhound. Credit: Getty
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