Variety:
Irish Wolfhound
Country of origin:
Ireland
Destination:
Domestic dog
Colours:
Black, white, blue, grey, grey, reddish brown or shirma
Character
Affectionate, loyal, good house guard. Friendly with children, other dogs
Height:
71-90 cm
Weight:
38-57 kg
Longevity:
11-12 years
Other names:
Irish Wolfhound, Irish Wolfhound
Hypoallergenic:
No
Litter size: Medium
The Irish Wolfhound, also known as the Irish Wolfhound, is a giant dog that simply catches the eyes of passers-by. Despite its physical superiority, the Irish Wolfhound is a very friendly dog and a great companion that owners can feel completely safe around.The Irish Wolfhound was bred to hunt wolves, but nowadays it is a great family companion that can be used for hunting or home protection. It is true that these dogs are not usually aggressive towards humans, but even a friendly Irish Wolfhound is often fearsome. So this breed of dog is a perfect imitation of security systems!
History of the breed
It is thought that the Irish Wolfhound may be more than two thousand years old. The first written reference to the giant Irish dog is in 391 AD, but it is believed that the breed was already fully established by the first century. From the early Middle Ages until the 17th century, these dogs were prized by the nobility as a most luxurious gift. In the 15th century, it was compulsory for Irish counties to have twenty-four wolfhounds to protect their farms from wolves. In 1652, the forests began to be deforested and the wolf population declined significantly. In the 19th century, there was a renewed interest in the breed. Captain G.A. G.G. Graham began to look for dogs that retained the old Irish Wolfhound type and crossed them with Russian Greyhounds, Great Danes and Dirhounds. After some time, the original appearance and temperament of the Irish Wolfhounds were restored and the Captain’s efforts paid off. The Irish Kennel Club recognised the breed in 1879 and six years later the Irish Wolfhound Club was founded. Today, the breed is almost as popular as it was in the Middle Ages.
Irish Wolfhound: appearance
The Irish Wolfhound is a very large dog: males are at least 79 cm tall at the withers and females at least 71 cm. It is desirable that the height of the dogs entered in shows should be at least slightly above the minimum height. The average weight of a male shall be 54 kg, that of a female 40,5 kg. The build of the Irish Wolfhound is strong and muscular, the back long and the loin prominent. The muzzle is long, slightly pointed and almost the same length as the forehead. The eyes are medium-sized, rounded and dark. Ears small, wrinkled, close-set. The tail of the Irish Wolfhound is long, extending to the hock joints. Legs are straight, legs strong and long, hind paws rounder than forepaws. The claws are very strong and curved. The coat is coarse, of medium length, and may be black, white, bluish, grey, reddish brown or brindle.
The Irish Wolfhound: character
Irish Wolfhounds are patient, affectionate dogs that are very attached to their owner and the whole family. Although the breed was developed for hunting wolves, today they are excellent house dogs that are very affectionate and highly intelligent. Irish Wolfhounds are eager to get along with children and get along well with them. Irish Wolfhounds also get on well with other dogs and can get on well with a cat if they have been with it since they were small. They see strangers as potential friends, but can defend their owner if necessary. Aggression is not a characteristic of Irish Wolfhounds, but early socialisation and training are necessary. The Irish Wolfhound learns new commands quite quickly,