Gentle and Affectionate

Irish Wolfhounds are known for their calm, gentle nature, making them excellent companions for families. 

Loyal and Protective

They are fiercely loyal to their families and can serve as protective watchdogs despite their generally calm demeanour. 

Low Maintenance Grooming

Their rough coat requires moderate grooming but is generally low-maintenance compared to other long-haired breeds. 

Great with Children

Irish Wolfhounds are typically patient and gentle with children, making them well-suited for family life. 

Short Lifespan

Irish Wolfhounds have a shorter-than-average lifespan, typically living only 6-10 years. 

Prone to Health Issues

They are prone to certain health problems, including heart disease, hip dysplasia, and bloat. 

Not Ideal for Small Living Spaces

Due to their large size, they are best suited to homes with plenty of space and may struggle in smaller apartments. 

High Exercise Needs for Their Size

Despite their calm nature, Irish Wolfhounds require regular, moderate exercise to stay healthy. 

Exercise Needs

Irish Wolfhounds are large, active dogs that require regular, moderate exercise to maintain their health. They enjoy long walks and outdoor playtime but do not have the same high energy levels as some other large breeds. Despite their calm nature, they need enough activity to prevent boredom. 

Walks

Irish Wolfhounds benefit from at least one or two long walks per day, combined with some playtime. However, care should be taken not to over-exercise them when they are young to avoid putting strain on their growing bones and joints. 

Training

Irish Wolfhounds are intelligent but can be independent and sometimes stubborn. They respond well to positive reinforcement training, but their large size means early obedience training is crucial to ensure they are well-behaved as adults. Gentle, consistent training works best for this sensitive breed. 

Purchase Price

$3,500 - $7,500 AUD depending on breeder and lineage. 

Initial Setup

Around $500 - $1,000 AUD, with larger and sturdier items needed due to their size. (crate, bed, toys, etc.) 

Food

Approximately $2,000 - $3,000 AUD per year, given their size and dietary needs. 

Grooming

Minimal grooming costs, typically around $300 - $500 AUD per year. Their rough coat requires regular brushing, but they do not need frequent baths or trims. 

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $600 - $1,200 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups and preventive care could cost $800 - $1,500 AUD per year, with additional costs for managing potential health issues like hip dysplasia or heart disease. 

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 6-10 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $30,000 - $50,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors. 

Size and Weight

Irish Wolfhounds are one of the largest dog breeds, typically standing 76-90 cm (30-35 inches) tall and weighing between 54-70 kg (120-155 lbs). Males are generally larger than females. 

Coat

Irish Wolfhounds have a rough, wiry coat that is designed to protect them from the harsh weather conditions in Ireland. Their coat is easy to maintain with regular brushing to prevent matting, but they do shed moderately. 

Colour Options

Irish Wolfhounds come in various colours, including grey, brindle, fawn, red, black, and white. 

Temperament

Irish Wolfhounds are known for their calm, gentle, and patient temperament. They are affectionate with their families and are often described as sensitive and friendly. Despite their size, they are not aggressive and tend to be calm and composed around strangers. Their friendly nature makes them less suitable as guard dogs, though they will protect their loved ones if necessary. 

Good with Children

Irish Wolfhounds are excellent with children, being patient, gentle, and protective. However, due to their large size, supervision is recommended with younger children to prevent accidental injuries during play.  

Socialisation

Early socialisation is essential to help Irish Wolfhounds become well-adjusted and comfortable around other dogs, people, and new environments. Their calm demeanour makes them generally easy-going, but proper socialisation ensures they develop confidence and good manners. 

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Irish Wolfhounds are best suited to living indoors with their families but need regular outdoor time for exercise. They are not suited for full-time outdoor living due to their strong bond with their families and need for companionship. They do best in homes with large yards where they can move freely. 

Apartment Living

Due to their large size, Irish Wolfhounds are not ideal for apartment living unless they have regular access to outdoor spaces. Their calm nature allows them to adapt to smaller spaces, but their size and exercise needs make larger homes or properties with a yard more suitable. 

Time Alone

Irish Wolfhounds do not do well when left alone for long periods. They are social dogs that enjoy companionship and may become anxious or bored if isolated for extended periods. They are best suited to homes where someone is present for most of the day or where they have another pet for company. 

Common Health Issues

Irish Wolfhounds are prone to several health issues, including hip dysplasia, heart disease, bloat (gastric torsion), and bone cancer. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and controlled exercise are essential to keeping them healthy. Due to their large size, they are particularly susceptible to joint issues, and care should be taken to avoid over-exertion during their growth stages. 

Guarding Ability

Despite their size, Irish Wolfhounds are not aggressive guard dogs. While they may bark to alert their owners of strangers, they are generally friendly and calm, making them less suited to be guard dogs. However, their sheer size can be a deterrent to potential intruders. 

Affectionate Nature

Irish Wolfhounds are known for being affectionate and gentle with their families. They enjoy being close to their owners and are often described as sensitive and loving. 

Suitability for Dog Parks

Irish Wolfhounds are generally friendly with other dogs, but supervision is recommended in dog parks due to their size. Early socialisation helps ensure positive interactions with other dogs, though their size can make them intimidating to smaller pets. 

Climate Adaptability

Irish Wolfhounds can adapt to a variety of climates but may struggle in extreme heat due to their large size. It’s important to provide plenty of water, shade, and avoid exercising them during the hottest parts of the day. In colder climates, their thick coat provides natural insulation, making them more comfortable in cooler temperatures. 

Ethical Breeding Considerations

Due to their predisposition to certain genetic conditions, such as hip dysplasia and heart disease, it’s important to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings. Ethical breeding practices help reduce the risk of hereditary health problems and ensure the well-being of the puppies.