Irish Wolfhound adult in black and white

Irish Wolfhound

Despite the Irish Wolfhound being developed to hunt wolves, this breed is as gentle a companion dog as they come.

About the Irish Wolfhound

Up to the end of the 17th century, these dogs were used in Ireland to hunt wolves and deer. Nowadays, they are renowned companion dogs. Certainly not as heavy or solidly built as the Great Dane, Irish Wolfhounds are still very big, imposing dogs with a lot of muscles.

Irish Wolfhounds make good guard dogs, willing to protect their human family from any threat.

Source: key facts and characteristics sourced from Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

Breed specifics

Country
Ireland
Group
FCI Group 10, AKC Hound Group
Size category
Very large
Avg life expectancy
8–10 years

Friendly / Gentle / Intelligent / Loyal / Quiet / Even-tempered

Key facts

  • Makes a great guard dog
  • Requires moderate grooming
  • Needs little training

Other breeds that might interest you.