Irish Wolfhound Dog Breed
Dog Breeds
Irish Wolfhound Quick Facts
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Introduction
The Irish Wolfhound, also at times known as the Cú Faoil, the Wolf Dogge, the Rough Greyhound, the Big Dog of Ireland, the Irish Dog, the Irish Elkhound, the Irish Wolfdog, the Great Hound of Ireland, the Great Irish Greyhound Wolf-dog, the Canis Graius Hibernicus, the Grehound of Ireland and the Greyhound of Ireland, is a commanding, rough-coated, eyebrowed and bearded hound built for running. It is an ancient breed, today best known for being the tallest of all dogs and having one of the sweetest temperaments in the canine world. Irish Wolfhounds tend to mature later than most dogs; a 6-month old Wolfhound puppy can weigh upwards of 100 pounds and yet not be finished teething. Like puppies of other giant breeds, Wolfhound puppies should not be taken on long, arduous walks or runs, as they are predisposed to developing cartilage and joint problems during their stages of rapid growth. Irish Wolfhounds typically are unsuitable as guard dogs, because they are inherently kind and trustful of strangers. Certainly, their sheer size can be intimidating and by itself deter intruders. Their long tail is unusually powerful, and when wagged can wreak havoc on objects in the home, including humans. The Irish Wolfhound was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1897 as a member of its Hound Group.
While there is some debate over the origin of the Irish Wolfhound, most experts believe that the breed’s Middle Eastern sighthound ancestors were brought to the British Isles by Phoenician sea-traders approximately 3,000 years ago. Some think they were then crossed with local mastiffs to produce what looked like a giant greyhound; others surmise that the Irish Sheepdog and/or the Scottish Deerhound are in the ancestral mix.Whatever its actual lineage, the Irish Wolfhound was known
According to AKC Standards, “Of great size and commanding appearance, the Irish Wolfhound is remarkable in combining power and swiftness with sight." Irish Wolfhounds are massive dogs that can be an imposing force, but are true gentle giants. Reliable and loyal family companions, this breed bonds deeply with his people and wants to be included in all aspects of family life. Their sheer size is enough to scare away those with ill intentions, but Irish
The large, lean, muscular Irish Wolfhound is recognized as one of the largest breeds and is one of the kings of the dog world. Wolfhounds stand over 30 inches at the shoulder and when standing on the hind legs, can reach heights of over 7 feet tall. They have a stately presence, with a bearded face, a long neck, and tail that hangs down with a slight curve. The shaggy coat is rough-looking, crisp in
The saying goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words”. Check out the many different Irish Wolfhound Pictures and Irish Wolfhound images. Get an in depth look at the Irish Wolfhound and see the many things that this breed has to offer.