Irish Wolfhound

Breed Origin

Historical records indicate that Quintus Aurelius Symmachus received a remarkable “Great Hound of Ireland” as a gift from his brother, part of a total of seven Irish Wolfhounds bestowed upon him. These noble dogs were highly esteemed in various royal courts, and at one time, laws restricted their ownership exclusively to royalty. Frequently exchanged as diplomatic gifts, Irish Wolfhounds were sent to countries such as Sweden, Denmark, and Spain by other noble families. In addition to serving as loyal companions, these hounds were also employed in hunting, pursuing not only boars and wolves but also trained to unseat riders from their mounts and pull men from chariots during conflicts. The breed nearly faced extinction in the eighteenth century, but Captain George Graham discovered a few surviving Wolfhounds. He successfully crossbred them with Scottish Deerhounds, Tibetan Borzis, Pyrenean Wolfhounds, and Great Danes, leading to the development of the Irish Wolfhound we know today.

Care Routine

The Irish Wolfhound is not ideal for living in an apartment; it requires plenty of daily exercise. A secure, fenced yard is crucial for this breed to ensure it gets enough physical activity. Although the Irish Wolfhound does not shed excessively, it does shed at a moderate rate. Regular brushing, preferably once a week, is recommended, and every six months, either you or a professional groomer should remove excess dead hair from the coat. It's also important to pay attention to the dog's nails and teeth; regular nail trimming is essential for larger breeds, as it’s easier to manage in smaller increments. When feeding an Irish Wolfhound puppy, it's important to be cautious—growth formulas are not appropriate for this breed at a young age. Instead, prioritize high-quality food while steering clear of high-protein options.

Play & Exercise