The Irish Wolfhound is one of the top 10 largest dogs in the world. Height at the withers, on average, – from 70 to 95 cm, weight-from 45 to 60 kg. Despite its size, this big man is good-natured, has a gentle character and is absolutely not dangerous to humans.

It is considered one of the most ancient breeds of dogs – the first record of them dates back to 391 AD. More than 2 thousand years ago, with the tribes of the Celts, the dogs came to Ireland. In this country, the breeding of the breed continued. The dogs were used to hunt large Irish wolves. Wolfhounds easily and quickly coped with them with the help of heavy long paws. At the same time, these large animals helped to fight – with a powerful blow of the head, they knocked off the horses of the enemy’s mounted soldiers.

In the Middle Ages, Irish wolfhounds participated in the hunting of aristocrats for deer – this is even recorded in the chronicle “The Great Hunt” (1561). In the 17th century, it was customary to give this breed of dog to kings and other nobles from neighboring countries. So, for example, the Irish dogs were the favorites of Cardinal Richelieu. But in 1652, the government banned the export of these dogs from the country, which contributed to the preservation of the breed’s identity.

By temperament, wolfhounds are not very active, but still need long-term physical activity – at least 3 hours of walking a day. This will help to maintain the tone of the bones and muscles of a large animal.

The Irish Wolfhound today is a good-natured member of the family. He adores the owner and all the household members, is attached to them with all his heart and takes the separation hard. Loves kids, is patient with children’s games and fun.

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