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Irish Wolfhound Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Irish Wolfhound so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Hunting Dogs
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Irish Wolfhound dog profile picture
OriginIreland flagIreland
Other Names
What other names does the Irish Wolfhound have?
Cu Faoil
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Irish Wolfhound Size and Weight

Size
Is an Irish Wolfhound small, medium or large dog?

How big do Irish Wolfhound get?

What is the average size of an Irish Wolfhound?

Giant
Weight
How much does the Irish Wolfhound weigh? How much should an Irish Wolfhound weight? What is the normal weight of an Irish Wolfhound? How much does a full-grown Irish Wolfhound weight?
90-150 pounds (40-69 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of an Irish Wolfhound?
120 pounds (54.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Irish Wolfhound? Irish Wolfhound height:
28-35 inches (71-90 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of an Irish Wolfhound?
31.5 inches (80.5 cm)

Irish Wolfhound Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Irish Wolfhound puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of an Irish Wolfhound in the United States? How much money is an Irish Wolfhound?

Where to buy an Irish Wolfhound with a good pedigree?

$1800-$2000
If you choose to purchase the Irish Wolfhound, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Irish Wolfhound for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Irish Wolfhound gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Irish Wolfhound? How many Irish Wolfhound are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Irish Wolfhound is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Irish Wolfhound Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Irish Wolfhound? Is the Irish Wolfhound breed dumb or smart?
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Irish Wolfhound ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Trainability
Are Irish Wolfhound dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train an Irish Wolfhound?
Irish Wolfhound dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Irish Wolfhound good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Irish Wolfhound dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Irish Wolfhound dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Irish Wolfhound dogs can't provide protection for their territory. It's better to leave them out of the duty of protecting your valuables and property.

Irish Wolfhound Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Irish Wolfhound have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
DignifiedIntelligentPatientLoyalTemperedSweetGenerousThoughtful
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Irish Wolfhound sensitivity:
Irish Wolfhound dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is an Irish Wolfhound a good family dog?
High: Irish Wolfhound dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Cu Faoil need? Irish Wolfhound social needs:
Irish Wolfhound dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Irish Wolfhound to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Irish Wolfhound roam?
Irish Wolfhound dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Irish Wolfhound have high prey drive?
Irish Wolfhound dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Irish Wolfhound dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Irish Wolfhound Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
Average: Irish Wolfhounds, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Barking
Do Irish Wolfhound dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Cu Faoil bark?
Low to Average: The Irish Wolfhound rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Irish Wolfhound good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have an Irish Wolfhound in an apartment?
It is not recommended to keep the Irish Wolfhound breed in the home. It does best in the garden, but if you do want to keep it indoors, it should be exercised thoroughly with long daily walks, so you can keep the Irish Wolfhound indoors by introducing daily routines.

Irish Wolfhound Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Irish Wolfhound dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can an Irish Wolfhound be left alone? How long can you leave an Irish Wolfhound alone?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Irish Wolfhound Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Irish Wolfhound has a hard bite? What is the bite force of an Irish Wolfhound? How much bite force does an Irish Wolfhound have? How strong is an Irish Wolfhound bite?

Above 400 PSI 🔼

Irish Wolfhound bite force: The Strongest. The Irish Wolfhound bite force is among the strongest in the canine world. The bite force Irish Wolfhound measurements are typically quite high, which is a testament to their powerful and large stature. The bite force of Irish Wolfhound dogs is impressive, and their Irish Wolfhound bite PSI is reflective of their powerful nature.

The Irish Wolfhound PSI bite should be respected, and appropriate precautions should be taken when interacting with these dogs. The PSI of an Irish Wolfhound bite is high, making them one of the strongest breeds in terms of bite force.

They are very protective of themselves and their families, therefore a dog bite from them could be exceptionally dangerous with their PSI being above 400.

To ensure a well-behaved and controlled dog, it's important to learn how to train an Irish Wolfhound puppy not to bite from an early age. It is important that they’re trained to be around others safely.

Biting Potential
Do Irish Wolfhound bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Cu Faoil? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Irish Wolfhound? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Irish Wolfhound has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Irish Wolfhound do?
Irish Wolfhound dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Irish Wolfhound dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Irish Wolfhound Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Irish Wolfhound dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Very healthy dog breed. The Irish Wolfhound rarely meets with the veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Irish Wolfhound breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Irish Wolfhound breed? Most common health risks of Irish Wolfhound:
Hip Dysplasia Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)BloatDrug SensitivityElbow DysplasiaOsteochondrosis DissecansOsteosarcomaDilated CardiomyopathyFibrocartilaginous Embolic Myelopathy Liver Shunt
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Irish Wolfhound breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Irish Wolfhound see the vet?
Rare
The Irish Wolfhound should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Irish Wolfhound dogs live? How old can a Irish Wolfhound be? What is the age limit of the Irish Wolfhound? How many years can the oldest Irish Wolfhound live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of an Irish Wolfhound?

How long is the lifespan of an Irish Wolfhound?

6-10 years
The average lifespan of Irish Wolfhound: 8 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Irish Wolfhound can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.

Irish Wolfhound Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Irish Wolfhound have? What is the activity level of the Irish Wolfhound?
Irish Wolfhound dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs. If you live a chilled life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does an Irish Wolfhound need? How much exercise do Irish Wolfhound dogs require per day?

Do Irish Wolfhound dogs need a lot of exercises?

Irish Wolfhound dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Irish Wolfhound breed need?
Irish Wolfhound dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot. They're not the most active dog breed. If you live an active life, this breed can be a bad choice for you.

Irish Wolfhound Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does an Irish Wolfhound need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does an Irish Wolfhound breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Irish Wolfhound? How much food should I feed my Irish Wolfhound?
8 to 10 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Irish Wolfhound risk for obesity:
Average: The Irish Wolfhound has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Irish Wolfhound weight regularly.

Irish Wolfhound Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Irish Wolfhound have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
WiryRough
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Irish Wolfhound coats?
BlackGray Red Blue Cream White SilverWheaten
Grooming
How to groom the Irish Wolfhound and how often? How often should I take my Irish Wolfhound to the groomer?
Average: The Irish Wolfhound requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Irish Wolfhound, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Shedding Level
How much do Irish Wolfhound dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Cu Faoil? Do Irish Wolfhound dogs shed a lot?
Irish Wolfhound dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Irish Wolfhound need a bath? How often should you give an Irish Wolfhound a bath? Can I bathe my Irish Wolfhound every day?
8-12 weeks
Very rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Irish Wolfhound breed hypoallergenic?
No
Irish Wolfhound dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Irish Wolfhound has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Irish Wolfhound drool?
The Irish Wolfhound is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Irish Wolfhound could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Irish Wolfhound.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Irish Wolfhound Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Irish Wolfhound dogs get along with other pets? Are Irish Wolfhound dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Irish Wolfhound dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Irish Wolfhound temperament with other people:
Irish Wolfhound dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Child Friendly
Are Irish Wolfhound dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Irish Wolfhound temperament with children:
Irish Wolfhound dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Irish Wolfhound dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Irish Wolfhound breed live with a cat?
Irish Wolfhound dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Irish Wolfhound good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Irish Wolfhound dogs get along with other dogs?
Irish Wolfhound dogs are very dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Irish Wolfhound can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Irish Wolfhound breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Irish Wolfhound breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Irish Wolfhound dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Irish Wolfhound dogs good office canines? Do Irish Wolfhound dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Irish Wolfhound is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Irish Wolfhound dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Cu Faoil temperament with senior people? Are Irish Wolfhound dogs good for elderly owners?
Irish Wolfhounds are usually recommended for elderly people.

Irish Wolfhound As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Irish Wolfhound be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Irish Wolfhound is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Irish Wolfhound be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Irish Wolfhound be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Irish Wolfhound is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Irish Wolfhound be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Irish Wolfhound is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Irish Wolfhound be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Irish Wolfhound is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Irish Wolfhound be a boat dog?

Not really

Irish Wolfhound breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Irish Wolfhound be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Irish Wolfhound is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Irish Wolfhound dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Irish Wolfhound Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is an Irish Wolfhound pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Irish Wolfhound breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Irish Wolfhound: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Irish Wolfhound have in a litter? How many puppies can the Irish Wolfhound breed have for the first time? How many puppies does an Irish Wolfhound have? How many puppies can an Irish Wolfhound give birth to?
3-4 puppies

Irish Wolfhound Recognition

AKC Group
Is Irish Wolfhound recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1897 as a Hound breed.
FCI Group
Is Irish Wolfhound recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Sighthounds group, in the Rough-haired Sighthounds section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Irish Wolfhound breed?
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryCanadian Kennel ClubDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleKennel Club of Great BritainNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Australian National Kennel CouncilContinental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubNew Zealand Kennel ClubUnited Kennel ClubIrish Wolfhound Club Of America

Irish Wolfhound Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Health Issues: Very healthy dog breed.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Irish Wolfhound is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Adaptability: Irish Wolfhound dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Child Friendly: Irish Wolfhound dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Irish Wolfhound dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Irish Wolfhounds are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Irish Wolfhound dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Irish Wolfhound dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: It is not recommended to keep the Irish Wolfhound breed in the home.
  • Office Friendly: Irish Wolfhound is not the best dog breed for office environment.

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Irish Wolfhound Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Sarah

    Aug 3, 2021, 9:28:44 PM:

    Such a beautiful breed. I have never before seen one of these. They look like a pretty big dog.