Irish Wolfhound

Lifespan: 6 - 8 years

Height: 30 - 32 inches

Weight: 105 - 120 pounds

History

The first mention of an Irish wolfhound is from Rome in 391 A.D. The breed gained fame as a gladiator of wild animals in the arena and as a hunter of large game.
The combination of speed and strength made the dog the subject of many stories.
The Irish name for the breed is Cu Faoil. Cu is a term implying bravery, and was once given to all large hounds.
Irish chieftains favored the dogs for hunting the wolf and Irish elk. They also gave groups of them as traditional gifts to foreign nobility.
The breed declined in number so that they were almost extinct in Ireland by 1800. The famine of 1845 almost ended the breed.
In 1869, Captain G.A. Graham set about to reconstitute the breed by crossing the few remaining Irish Wolfhounds with other breeds such as the Scottish deerhound, Borzoi and Great Dane.
The breed regained its numbers and became famous as the world's tallest dog.

Makes a loyal and gentle companion.
Its laidback nature may make play frustrating for children. It is not a retriever.
Good with children, strangers, and other pets and dogs.
It is unhurried when it comes to minding.
It is not particularly good as either a watchdog or protection dog.
It enjoys hunting and chasing wild animals.
Obedience training is a must because of its size and strength.
Does best with reward-based training involving food.

Coat is rough and harsh.
The coat needs weekly brushing and occasional bathing.
Dead hairs should be stripped from the coat twice a year.
Shedding is below average.
Calluses can form on the elbows and other pressure points, and can be difficult to cure.

Irish wolfhound conformation is for a moderate build.
You should be able to feel the ribs, but they should not be too noticeable.
Puppies should be fed a large breed growth food so that they do not grow too fast.
Adult dogs should be fed a balanced diet, with restricted calories if the dog starts to gain too much weight.