Irish Wolfhound: Temperament, Size and Everyday Care

An Irish Wolfhound suits a household with lots of space, a big car and a love of gentle giants. Wolfhounds are calm, affectionate and dignified, but they are sighthounds that chase, they grow slowly, and their lifespan is shorter than smaller breeds. Budget for giant-dog costs.

A gray brindle Irish Wolfhound standing tall in an Irish green field — Gentle when stroked, fierce when provoked, says the old motto.

Breed-standard figures; individual dogs vary.

Irish Wolfhound at a glance
Height	At least 32 inches (81 cm) for males and 30 inches (76 cm) for females in the AKC standard
Weight	At least 120 lb (54 kg) for males and 105 lb (48 kg) for females in the AKC standard
Lifespan	Under 10 years
Coat	Rough and wiry; brush a few times a week
Exercise	Daily walks and safe runs
Bred for	Hunting wolves and deer

Who a Wolfhound Suits

Wolfhounds are gentle, quiet and loving with their families, and usually friendly with people and dogs. They suit owners with space and time.

They are a harder fit for small homes, small pets and anyone who can't lift or manage a giant dog in an emergency.

Slow Growth and Exercise

Feed a giant-breed puppy food and let your puppy grow slowly, avoiding forced running and lots of stairs. Adults enjoy walks and safe, fenced runs; like all sighthounds, they chase what moves.

Living With a Giant

Plan for a bed big enough to stretch out on, a car it can get into, and giant-dog costs for food, insurance and vet care. Keep counters clear: a Wolfhound can reach almost anything.

Gear for a Wolfhound

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An XL supportive bed, a giant-breed harness, a car ramp, and a slicker brush and comb for the rough coat.

Health: What to Ask the Breeder and Your Vet

In the UK, The Royal Kennel Club lists eye testing as best practice for Irish Wolfhound breeders. Ask breeders about heart checks in the parents too, and see the results. Learn the signs of bloat, an emergency in deep-chested dogs; see our Great Dane page.

Book a check-up soon after your dog comes home, keep it lean, and ask your vet about vaccinations, neutering and a parasite prevention plan for where you live.

Worming, flea and tick products and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. They can tell you what suits your dog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tall dogs, tall questions.

Is the Irish Wolfhound the tallest dog breed?

It is generally considered the tallest breed by height at the shoulder.

How long do Irish Wolfhounds live?

The Royal Kennel Club gives under 10 years.

Are Wolfhounds good with children?

Usually gentle and patient, but their size needs supervision.

Can a Wolfhound live with cats?

Some do if raised together; many chase. Introduce carefully.