A mythical and knightly aura surrounds this majestic hound of Ireland. With their rough coat, piercing eyes, shaggy brow and athletic body, they look as if they just stepped out of an Arthurian legend. However, beneath their rough appearance beats a heart of gold.

The Irish Wolfhound is truly a gentle soul. They are sweet natured and calm and full of love and affection. They are a good choice for the novice dog owner as they are fairly easy to train and so easy going, they are seldom a problem. Training should be gentle and never heavy handed, they are sensitive and can become skittish if ill-treated. They do have a bit of a mischievous side. Perspective owners should keep in mind that a dog this big looks down on kitchen counters and tables and is easily tempted by a Christmas turkey or ham set to cool. Their long tail can clear a coffee tables in a single swipe.

They are a little too good natured to be considered a great guard dog, but their size alone should keep most criminally minded away. The Irish Wolfhound loves their people beyond all else and will defend them if necessary. They are a quiet dog, can be a couch hog if allowed and is expensive to feed, as they are a big eater.

CHILDREN: They are excellent with children, but due to his size could hurt a youngster by accident.

OTHER ANIMALS: They are good with other animals. Some, especially those coming from working lines, can be aggressive with wolf or coyote crosses. They can sometimes forget his size and hurt smaller animals by mistake.

EXERCISE: This big dog does not take as much exercise as one would think. Owners should strive for about an hour of exercise daily, with some time for unrestrained runs. The Irish Wolfhound was and is still used to hunt wolves, stags and coyotes. Perspective owners buying from working lines instead of show/pet lines will get a more fiery and possibly bigger dog. Many Irish Wolfhounds do not seem to enjoy showmanship, so conformation and obedience trails may not be their thing. They are easily bored and not open to repetition. Like all giant breeds, the Irish Wolfhound matures slowly, care most be taken during their first 2-3 years of life not to over exercise them ,as it can hurt their developing joints. They should never be forced to run during their early years, especially on pavement. Walks on lead or taking them to an enclosed grassy area where they can romp as they please, is best when they are young. The Irish Wolfhound has such a calm sweet nature they excel at therapy work. Some also enjoy lure coursing. They seem to be a natural at walking on lead and many become an ideal walking companion with little or no training.

HEALTH: The Irish Wolfhound breed is prone to Hip dysphasia and bone tumours/cancer. They are also susceptible to twisted stomach and should never be exercised right after eating. They have a sensitive digestive system and as a puppy should not be overfeed as it can lead to bone problems. Their usual life span is 6-10 years. Like all sighthounds, they do not tolerate drugs well.

APPEARANCE/COAT CARE: The Irish Wolfhound breed stands 28-35 inches and weighs between 90-150 pounds, though some working lines tend to be bigger, sometimes hitting 40-42 inches and 150-220 pounds. Their rough coat which comes in fawn, red, grey, brindle, white or black should be brushed and combed twice a week. Straggly hairs should be trimmed a couple of times a year.

Photo kindly donated by the Burdick family. Sparhawk a 3 year old Irish Wolfhound.