Irish Wolfhound Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest of all dog breeds, a rough-coated sighthound once used to hunt wolves and Irish elk. It is quiet and gentle in the home, and carries itself with a calm dignity.

Origins and appearance

The breed is ancient and was prized in Ireland, but nearly died out before breeders revived it in the nineteenth century. Wolfhounds are tall, muscular and graceful, with a long head, a deep chest, a wiry, rough coat in gray, brindle, red, black or white, and a long, curved tail.

Temperament

They are gentle, patient and loyal. They love family, including children, and are generally good with other dogs. They are calm indoors. They are sensitive. Many chase small animals outdoors. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need moderate exercise, such as daily walks and occasional safe runs. Avoid heavy exercise while growing. They need a large, fenced space. Never trust them off-leash near wildlife.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use positive methods and early socialization. Teach leash manners before the dog is large. Avoid harsh corrections.

Coat and grooming

The rough coat needs brushing weekly and occasional trimming or hand-stripping. See wire coat dog grooming guide. Trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Bone cancer and other cancers. See signs of cancer in dogs
• Heart disease, including dilated cardiomyopathy and atrial fibrillation
• Portosystemic shunts
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Sensitivity to anesthesia

Living with an Irish Wolfhound

They suit families with space. They are poorly suited to small homes. They need company.

A typical day

A Wolfhound walks, naps for much of the day and enjoys family time. They like to be near people and lean on them.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies grow extremely fast and are clumsy. Begin socialization, handling and training. Avoid stairs and heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food for a giant dog and significant vet costs. See dog vet cost guide and dog pet insurance guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold well, but need shade and water in heat. Travel requires a very large vehicle.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include overfeeding puppies, trusting off-leash recall, ignoring bloat signs and underestimating costs.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about heart, hip and liver tests, and lifespans in the lines. Meet the parents.

A short, tender life

The breed's lifespan is short, and many owners find that hard. Talk to your vet about care plans, consider insurance and choose breeders who track longevity and heart health.

Chase instinct

A Wolfhound can run astonishingly fast. Even a calm dog may bolt at a squirrel. Use secure fences and leashes.

Daily care checklist

Plan on moderate walks, weekly brushing, nail trims, ear checks and measured meals. Provide a soft bed, a warm coat in cold weather and shade in heat.

Is it the right breed for you?

An Irish Wolfhound suits families who want a giant, gentle companion and accept health costs and a short lifespan. It may not suit small homes. For a related hound, see the Scottish Deerhound.

Heart health and screening

Many Wolfhounds develop heart problems, especially atrial fibrillation and dilated cardiomyopathy. Ask your vet about regular heart checks, including auscultation and, where available, an echocardiogram and an electrocardiogram, starting in young adulthood. Breed clubs and research programs often run screening clinics. Early detection can guide treatment decisions and help you plan for the dog's care.

Choosing and living with a giant

Plan ahead for tall counters, high car doors and wide beds. A raised feeder is sometimes advised, but check with your vet, since feeding position and bloat risk remain debated. Soft flooring helps old joints.

The takeaway

Irish Wolfhounds are tall, gentle and calm, and they need space, secure fencing and careful health care.