Irish Wolfhound
Dog · Hound · 0 live listings
The tallest AKC breed, bred in Ireland to hunt wolves and elk and to guard, the Irish Wolfhound is gentle, calm and patient. It needs space, soft bedding and room to stretch its legs, and like most giant breeds it lives a short life.
At a glance
The tradeoffs, honestly
Wolfhounds live six to eight years on average, and heart disease, bone cancer and bloat are common. Their size means costly food, medicine, vehicles and furniture.
Common questions
Is an Irish Wolfhound a good first dog?
It can be, for a household ready for a giant dog. Wolfhounds are gentle and easygoing, but their size means early training and a large home or yard are essential.
What health problems do Wolfhounds have, and what should be tested?
Dilated cardiomyopathy, bone cancer, bloat and liver shunt are the main concerns. Ask for a cardiac exam with echocardiogram on both parents, OFA hips, and a bile acid or liver shunt test on the puppy.
Why do Irish Wolfhounds live such short lives?
Giant size, heart disease and bone cancer all shorten lifespans. Breeders who track longevity and screen hearts give you the best odds.
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