Irish Wolfhound

The calm, dignified, and gentle Irish Wolfhound is the tallest of all breeds recognized by the AKC. Once renowned as fearless hunters capable of bringing down a wolf single-handedly, today’s Irish Wolfhounds are among the most peaceful and agreeable companions in the canine world.

This friendly giant is an immense yet elegantly built hound, shaped along classic Greyhound lines and capable of impressive speed at a full gallop. Adult males may approach three feet in height at the shoulder and weigh up to 180 pounds, while females are somewhat smaller but still powerfully built. The rough, wiry coat appears in a wide range of colors, including white, gray, brindle, red, black, and fawn. Though far too gentle to serve as fierce guard dogs, the sheer presence of an Irish Wolfhound is often enough to discourage intruders. Known for their patience with children, these dogs still require supervision around youngsters due to their great size. Owning an Irish Wolfhound is a unique and deeply rewarding experience—but caring for a giant, fast-moving hound demands a commitment as substantial as the dog itself.