Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are giant sighthounds known for a calm, gentle temperament and a dignified presence. Despite their size, many are quiet indoors and prefer steady walks and relaxed companionship over constant activity. Their wiry coat needs routine grooming, and early training matters for good manners because of their strength and height. Wolfhounds do best with space to stretch out and a family that appreciates a slower pace. Thoughtful care helps them become, they are affectionate giants with a long history.
The Irish Wolfhound is a giant dog in the Hound group, known for Gentle, Dignified, Calm. Adults typically weigh 105-180 lbs and stand 30-35 in, with a lifespan around 6-8 years.
Quick facts
- Group: Hound
- Size: giant
- Lifespan: 6-8 years
- Weight: 105-180 lbs
- Height: 30-35 in
- Temperament: Gentle, Dignified, Calm, Friendly
Temperament & day-to-day life
Temperament helps you predict what daily life with this breed may feel like. The Irish Wolfhound is often described as Gentle, Dignified, Calm, Friendly. Individual dogs vary, but these traits are a solid starting point when you’re planning training, enrichment, and routines.
If you’re researching this breed because you’re trying to identify your own dog, use temperament as supporting evidence—not the final verdict. Compare size, proportions, and behavior patterns, then confirm with a photo using the AI dog breed identifier.
Training & exercise
Hounds were developed to follow scent or sight. Many have strong instincts to track, chase, or explore—traits that show up clearly on walks.
Recall and leash skills are especially important. Use high-value rewards and practice in low-distraction environments before leveling up.
Enrichment that taps into sniffing and tracking (scent games, long-line walks) can be as valuable as pure running for many hounds.
History
Irish Wolfhounds have ancient roots in Ireland, historically used for hunting wolves and large game. The breed was revived in the 19th century after becoming rare, and it remains admired for size and gentleness.
Care tips
Good care is less about perfection and more about consistency. Start with simple routines you can keep up—daily movement, a predictable feeding plan, and regular check-ins for ears, nails, and skin.
- Use controlled, joint-friendly exercise—avoid excessive stress on growing pups.
- Provide supportive bedding; giant bodies need cushioning.
- Train manners early—large dogs need reliable leash and greeting skills.
- Groom regularly; wire coats need brushing and occasional stripping.
- Discuss heart and joint screening with your vet as part of routine care.
Similar breeds to compare
Many breeds share similar silhouettes and features. If you’re comparing AI results or deciding between breeds, it helps to read a few profiles side by side. Common look-alikes and close cousins to the Irish Wolfhound include Great Dane, Greyhound, Whippet, Saint Bernard.
When you compare, focus on structure (muzzle length, ear set, body proportions) as much as coat color. Then confirm by looking at temperament and daily care needs.
FAQ
How big do Irish Wolfhounds get?
Most adult Irish Wolfhounds fall around 105-180 lbs and stand 30-35 in. Genetics, diet, and activity level all influence where an individual dog lands within that range.
How long do Irish Wolfhounds live?
The typical lifespan is 6-8 years. Preventive vet care, healthy weight, and consistent daily exercise are some of the biggest factors that support longevity.
What is the Irish Wolfhound temperament like?
Many owners describe this breed as Gentle, Dignified, Calm, Friendly. Early socialization and reward-based training help those traits show up as calm confidence at home and on walks.
How can I identify a Irish Wolfhound from a photo?
Upload a clear photo (ideally with the full body visible) to our dog breed identifier. Use the results as a starting point, then compare likely matches in the breed directory.