The Irish Wolfhound is a legend on four legs. Once bred to hunt wolves and guard estates, these towering hounds are the tallest dog breed in the world. But behind that imposing size lies a heart of gold — they’re gentle, calm, and often convinced they’re lapdogs.
Owner insight: “They are my favourite breed … they think they are tiny lapdogs and can happily curl up on you.”
Still tempted by this giant shadow? Take the Which Dog Breed is Best for Me? Quiz to see if you can handle a wolfhound’s sofa-hogging lifestyle.
Great Names for an Irish Wolfhound
A dog this epic needs a name to match. For more inspiration, head over to our Dog Name Generator.
- Irish-inspired: Cú Chulainn, Finn, Tara, Niamh, Conor
- Mythical nods: Titan, Thor, Odin, Athena, Freya
- Gentle giant vibes: Bear, Moose, Cloud, Willow, Titania
- Funny picks: Tiny, Tinkerbell, Sofa, Hoover, Stretch
Pickles’ Aside: “Name one Tiny — watch the neighbours laugh every walk.”
Exercise
Don’t let their calm presence fool you — Irish Wolfhounds were bred to run down wolves and need plenty of space. That said, they’re sprinters, not marathoners.
They need:
- 1–2 hours of moderate exercise daily.
- Open spaces for free running (safely fenced).
- Controlled activity while growing — avoid over-exercising young wolfhounds.
Owner insight: “My friend has a young wolfhound … nothing can be left on the table or kitchen worktop … they take up the whole sofa.”
Working & Giant Breed Warning
Wolfhounds may be laid-back, but they’re still working dogs — and enormous ones at that. They eat like horses, grow like weeds, and need careful management during their puppy months.
Pickles’ Aside: “Think baby elephant with zoomies — best keep your coffee table clear.”
Temperament
Despite their size, Wolfhounds are famously gentle and calm. They love people and tend to get along with other pets too.
- Affectionate and loyal.
- Gentle giants — great with kids, but supervision needed (they’re HUGE).
- Calm at home — happiest snoozing on the sofa after a stroll.
Owner insight: “They are good and gentle with other animals too!”
Training
Wolfhounds are intelligent and eager to please, but their sheer size means training isn’t optional — it’s essential.
- Start early with basic commands.
- Positive reinforcement works best.
- Consistency — don’t let that giant frame get away with cheeky habits.
Need help? The World’s First AI Dog Trainer can keep training on track as your lap-giant grows.
Pickles’ Aside: “Teach sit early — or risk being flattened at the front door.”
Strangers & Watchdog Potential
Irish Wolfhounds aren’t natural guard dogs. Their size alone is intimidating, but most are far too gentle to be aggressive.
- Good deterrent just by standing at the door.
- Friendly with visitors once introduced.
- Not barky compared to smaller breeds.
Other Animals
Wolfhounds are generally easy-going with other dogs and even cats, provided they’re socialised. Their hunting roots mean a strong prey drive, so small furries may not be safe.
Pickles’ Aside: “Yes, they’re gentle… unless you’re a squirrel.”
Grooming
Their rough coat is surprisingly low-maintenance, but their size makes any grooming session an event.
- Weekly brushing to keep coats neat.
- Bathing is a mission — better outdoors or at a groomer.
- Ear and nail care — vital for such big paws and floppy ears.
Health
Sadly, giant size often comes with a shorter lifespan. Wolfhounds typically live 6–8 years and are prone to serious health issues.
Common problems:
- Heart disease (dilated cardiomyopathy)
- Bone cancer (osteosarcoma)
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Bloat (gastric torsion)
Owner insight: “Heart problems are a huge issue … bloat is also a major issue … you do have to watch for it.”
Owner insight: “Raised feeders … I am very much receptive to the idea of not exercising before or after feeding time.”
Choosing the right breeder is absolutely critical for a breed this big. Look for health screening (hearts, hips/elbows, family history) and transparent puppy contracts — start with our Best in Breeder Guide.
Bloat Warning
Like many deep-chested breeds, Wolfhounds are at high risk of bloat (GDV) — a life-threatening emergency.
How to reduce the risk:
- Feed smaller meals instead of one big one.
- Avoid exercise before or after eating.
- Use a slow-feeder bowl.
- Learn the signs: swollen belly, unproductive retching, sudden distress.
Pickles’ Aside: “Trust me, hoomans — this one’s serious. Know the signs, save a life.”
Cost of Ownership (UK)
Everything about a Wolfhound is XL — including the bills.
- Puppy price: £1,500–£3,000
- Food: £70–£120/month
- Insurance: £60–£100/month
- Routine vet care: ~£400–£600/year
- Unexpected costs: bloat surgery, heart care — thousands.
Famous Owners & Moments
Wolfhounds are Ireland’s national dog and appear in art, folklore, and even as mascots of the Irish Guards regiment. They’ve long been symbols of loyalty and strength.
Myth-Busting
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| They’re fierce wolf killers | True historically, but today they’re gentle giants. |
| They don’t need much space | Wrong — they need room just to stretch out. |
| They’re guard dogs | Not really — size scares people, temperament doesn’t. |
| Giant dogs = short walks | False — they need daily exercise, just not endless miles. |
Irish Wolfhound FAQs
- Do they shed? Lightly, weekly brushing helps.
- Are they good with kids? Yes, gentle but supervision needed due to size.
- How much exercise? 1–2 hours a day.
- How long do they live? 6–8 years.
- Do they make good guard dogs? Not really — they’re gentle giants.
Thinking of Bringing Home an Irish Wolfhound?
If you want a loyal, calm, sofa-hogging giant who’ll draw attention everywhere you go, the Irish Wolfhound could be perfect. But be ready: they’re fragile giants with big health risks and short lifespans.
Before you decide, get organised with our New Puppy Paw-rent Planner. And once your Wolfhound is settled, why not celebrate them with a Custom Cartoon Pet Portrait?
Pickles’ Aside: “Lapdog vibes, horse-sized body. Good luck with the sofa.”
Breed Stats
- Origin: Ireland
- Weight: 50–82 kg
- Height: 76–89 cm (tallest dog breed)
- Lifespan: 6–8 years
- Best Trait: Gentle, loyal, calm
- Challenging Trait: Short lifespan, high health risks