🐶 Origin and history: a giant with a heroic past
The Irish Wolfhound (or Irish Greyhound) is an ancient breed that dates back to the early Celtic civilizations. It is a descendant of the large greyhounds used by the Celts, particularly those that descend from Egyptian greyhounds. Primarily used for hunting wolves and deer, the Irish Wolfhound is an iconic figure of Ireland and was also used in many other European and Asian countries until the 17th century.
✨ Why adopt an Irish Wolfhound?
The Irish Wolfhound is an imposing dog, but with a great gentleness. It is a calm, affectionate, and intelligent companion that can adapt to a quiet life, provided it has the necessary space to exercise. It is not a dog for an apartment; it prefers large gardens or open spaces. If you are looking for a majestic yet gentle dog, the Irish Wolfhound could be the ideal companion.
📊 Quick facts
- Hypoallergenic? No ❌
- Weight: 88-150 lbs
- Height: 28-35 inches
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
- Exercise needs: 2 to 3 hours per day
- Apartment living: 🚨 Not suitable (needs large spaces)
🏅 Personality (from 1 to 5 ⭐)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Independent: ⭐☆☆☆☆
👨👩👧👦 Gets along well with…
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (gentle and calm with children)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (may have a hunting instinct that could harm small prey)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (generally sociable with strangers)
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (needs space, not ideal for an apartment)
> Note: The Irish Wolfhound is a dog that prefers open spaces where it can run freely. It will struggle to adapt to an urban environment without a garden.
🛁 Maintenance & budget
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (short coat, but maintenance is difficult due to its large size)
- Average annual cost: 800-1000 €
- Purchase price: 1100-1300 €
- Care: Although its short coat does not require much grooming, one must be vigilant about its maintenance due to its size. Brushing and cleaning the ears can be difficult. It is also important to provide enough exercise to keep it fit.
💬 In summary
The Irish Wolfhound is a majestic, calm, and affectionate dog, ideal for families with large spaces. It is not suited for apartment living and requires regular walks to stay fit. With its exercise and maintenance needs due to its large size, it is perfect for those looking for an imposing yet gentle dog with a noble side. 🦴🐾
