Characteristics of dogs of the Irish Wolfhound breed with reviews and photos. Breeds of wolfhound dogs: description Wolfhound breed characteristics

Large hunting dog breed. He is enormously tall, has a strong and graceful physique, long legs thanks to which he can run fast, and is simply irreplaceable when hunting wolves. A good watchman and companion, however, this brave breed is completely devoid of aggression towards humans. The only thing that might frighten a stranger is the dog's enormous height. This giant is considered the mascot of the Irish armed forces.

The Irish Wolfhound is an ancient breed, born more than 2 thousand years ago. It was bred to hunt the most dangerous predators in Ireland - wolves and boars. Thanks to his keen eyesight and strong paws, he could easily defeat his opponent. There is a legend that these giants were used to hunt the giant Irish elk, but in truth, this is just fiction.

His birth is a mystery to dog handlers. Perhaps the ancient Romans, who brought dogs from Britain to the Metropolis for fighting in the circus arena, brought these big-chested “bearded” giants. In Ireland, they guarded settlements and hunted large predators.

Another version is that the Irish Wolfhound is said to have been brought to Ireland by the Celts around 500 BC. In those distant times, the breed was called “Irish hound”, “wolfhound”, “ku” - which meant a strong hound.

The Irish Wolfhound had enormous strength and courage. The soldiers set them on their enemies, and the wolfhound had no problem throwing the enemy rider off his horse. They went into battle ahead of the troops, guarding the fortresses as sentries.

The Legend of the Irish Wolfhound

Photo of an Irish Wolfhound looking menacing

There were many legends about his valor and exploits. The most popular one tells how the English king John the Landless brought a small wolfhound as a gift to Llewellyn the Prince of Wales. The prince named the dog Gelert, he became his favorite and faithful friend. And for his little son, a nanny and protector.

One day the king went hunting, leaving Gelert at home. In those difficult times, there were a lot of wolves in the forests. At times it seemed that there were more of them than people and dogs combined. They posed a threat to both the hunter and those who stayed at home.

Approaching the house, the prince saw his pet rushing towards him, wagging its tail. But the dog’s muzzle, stained with blood, greatly worried the owner. Headlong, he rushed into the house to his son's cradle, but it turned out to be empty. Grief and sadness overwhelmed the prince; he decided that his favorite had bitten the baby to death. In an instant, the saddened father drew his sword and stabbed the dog. Dying, the faithful dog let out a long, pitiful howl, from which the baby, who was sleeping under the cradle, woke up. The prince knelt down and saw a huge dead wolf, which his favorite had killed, saving his master's son.

Having comprehended the horror of what he had done, the prince did not remember himself from grief. He ordered the erection of a monument to the faithful Gelert, the statue stands to this day, and the place where the favorite was buried was named Beth-Gellert in his honor.

In Europe, wolfhounds were extremely rare, and many noble people dreamed of receiving them as a gift. In 1641, the Irish Wolfhound was brought to France and was presented to Cardinal Richelieu. In 1652, Cromwell, having come to power, banned the export of the breed from England under penalty of death. Several centuries later, having destroyed his gray enemy, he was left without his main purpose - hunting wolves. What led to the degeneration of the breed. In 1862, British Army Captain D. Graham began breeding and restoring the breed. Over time, he managed to improve many qualities, except agility.

In the 18th century, when the Irish Wolfhound almost disappeared, breeders crossed it with the Greyhound, Great Dane and Scottish Greyhound. The newly created Irish Wolfhound has once again regained its popularity in America.

Irish Wolfhound breed description and FCI standard

Full length photo of an Irish Wolfhound in a field

1. Body type: graceful, strong, muscular.
2. Movements: light, energetic.
3. Head: long, straight, carried high; the frontal bones of the forehead are slightly pronounced, with a slight depression between the eyes.
4. Neck: Long, strong, muscular, well arched, without dewlap or loose skin under the throat.
5. Muzzle: elongated, moderately narrowed.
6. Eyes: dark.
7. Jaws and teeth: scissor bite, the upper row of teeth tightly overlapping the lower.
8. Ears: small, rose-shaped.
9. Body: long, ribs well curved.
10. Back: long, straight.
11. Loin: Slightly arched.
12. Croup: quite wide between the rumps (these are two bones in the croup area, or in other words - the waist. They can be used to determine the fatness of the dog. If the waist is difficult to distinguish, the rumps are not detected, and the ribs are under a dense layer of fat and cannot be felt - it’s time to plant on a diet).
13. Chest: deep, moderately wide.
14. Ribs: Well sprung.
15. Belly: tucked in.
16. Wolfhound tail: long, slightly curved upward towards the tip, medium thickness, densely covered with hair.
17. Forelegs: straight, strong, long.
18. Shoulders: muscular, sloping. Elbows point back, turning neither in nor out.
19. Hind limbs: muscular, smooth.
20. Paws: large, rounded, stand straight. The fingers are tightly gathered into a ball. The claws are strong and curved.
21. Coat: rough, hard on the body. The hair on the legs, head, above the eyes and beard is wiry.
22. Males: Must have two well-developed testes, fully descended into the scrotum.

Irish Wolfhound color

Irish Wolfhounds have a neutral neoclassical coloration that includes:

• Grey
• Black
• Motley
• Ginger
• Yellowish brown
• Wheat
• White

By nature, the Irish Wolfhound is affectionate, balanced and kind. It’s even surprising that such a giant is actually a very vulnerable and gentle creature.

It is quite difficult to piss him off, but if he gets angry, he immediately turns into a dangerous opponent. Very loyal to the owner and his family. He is a good watchman and security guard, but he will never rush at a person, he is very trusting and friendly towards people. He has no aggression towards humans, and only when he senses a real threat to the owner will he immediately come to his defense.

The Irish Wolfhound is highly intelligent, self-sufficient and independent, so from puppyhood it must know who is boss in the house. The wolfhound matures rather slowly; most remain puppies for more than a year, although in appearance they are already a huge individual. Training must begin from the first days of arrival at home. He must obey and obey his master's commands. When treated properly, they become strongly attached to a person and are faithful to him throughout his life.

The main rule is never hit a dog. If you are having trouble parenting, turn to professionals. An experienced person will teach her obedience.

The Irish Wolfhound loves his owner's children very much, tolerates many children's pranks, and if he gets tired of the child, he will simply get up and go to the opposite corner or room. But given its huge size, never leave a small child alone with it.

Gets along well with other pets, cats and dogs of other breeds. The breed is very calm, almost does not bark, and does not make a fuss over trifles. Despite its large size, it fits quite compactly in the apartment. True, you must provide him with a separate sofa as a sleeping place. Its heavy weight does not allow it to lie on a hard mat or floor for a long time.

You need to walk with the wolfhound at least twice a day for 40 - 50 minutes. The walks are calm, without much stress. If you are a busy person and spend more time at work than at home, get yourself a different pet that can easily tolerate loneliness, such as a parrot or a hamster. The Irish Wolfhound really needs communication with its owner. He cannot be locked in a cramped apartment and only occasionally taken out for a walk. A large breed needs a lot of space. Incorrect content will result in physical and emotional harm.

If you want to have an Irish Wolfhound, you must understand that a large pet comes with a lot of responsibility. Ask yourself whether you can provide him with high-quality nutritious food, care, visits to the veterinarian, trips to nature and, most importantly, devote enough time so that he does not feel abandoned. They need the company of a person, otherwise, out of boredom, they become disobedient and begin to play pranks.

A one-year-old puppy, for example, is capable of destroying a room within an hour. A well-trained Irish Wolfhound can participate in dog shows, obedience competitions, and field trials.

The Irish Wolfhound matures late. They are allowed to jump after a year, then they spend a year training. Of course, they are not as fast as a Border Coley or a Golden Retriever, but they are very tenacious. So even the most dexterous breeds can create worthy competition in agility, and prizes are taken by those individuals whose owners dedicated their lives to it.

Photo of white Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound has a hard, wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat. This coat ideally protects the body from mechanical damage during hunting and chasing wild animals, mosquito and horsefly bites, getting wet, cold and dirt. It has almost no specific “dog” smell. It does not tangle and is quite easy to comb.

Grooming: the coarse fur of the Irishman is not cut, but only trimmed, 2 times a year, spring - autumn. Trimming is done with fingers, a trimming knife or stripping. A trimming knife resembles a serrated knife, with varying tooth heights and frequencies. The knife is not sharp, so as not to cut off the fur, but serves as a replacement for the index finger - to facilitate the process of pulling out the fur.

Regular combing of the coat with a trimming knife will give it a well-groomed appearance and remove undercoat and dead hair. Many breeders find a fishtail-shaped knife to be comfortable in the hand. Individuals who have completed their exhibition career are allowed to be cut.

It is necessary to comb 2 - 3 times a week with a metal comb and a natural bristle brush to keep the hair clean and tidy. During brushing, blood circulation improves, dead hair is removed and the pet enjoys a pleasant massage.

First of all, we comb the fur with a metal comb, we need to start from the head, then move on to the body, comb the sides well, go to the tail, and then move on to the limbs. We hold the comb at an angle strictly in the direction of movement.

Afterwards, we comb the wool with a natural bristle brush, first against the hair, then in the direction of growth. A damp cloth can remove accumulated dust and dirt.

They bathe rarely, 1 - 2 times a year, when soiled or before a show, with shampoo for wire-haired breeds. Wool is not soft, otherwise it will lose the necessary protective qualities, so conditioner is not used. For huge growth, dry cleaning is suitable. Dry shampoo is first rubbed into the coat, and then combed well with a comb. After feeding, wipe the muzzle with a damp towel to remove any remaining food from the beard. After your walk, wash your genitals and paws with a shower.

Nails are trimmed once a month with a nail clipper for large breeds. Too long claws are trimmed in several approaches. Be sure to monitor the condition of the claws; by nature, they are quite curved, and when they grow long, they can cause discomfort when walking.

Check your teeth regularly. Healthy gums have a pleasant pink color without bleeding. Teeth are brushed once a week with a paste for dogs using a toothbrush or a finger attachment. To mechanically remove plaque, let's gnaw on chewing bones.

Inspect your ears regularly, wipe the inside of the shell with a damp cotton pad, removing dust and wax. If there is an unpleasant odor coming from the ear, there is excess wax, fluid is leaking, or the dog is shaking its head or rubbing itself on the floor, be sure to seek help from a veterinarian.

After walks, paws are washed and the paw pads are examined for injuries. The fur between the toes must be removed so that the toes are gathered into a ball. In winter, I lubricate the paw pads with vegetable oil to prevent cracks from appearing.

Examine your eyes regularly. Wash once a week with a damp soft cloth soaked in chamomile infusion or warm water. A healthy eye without souring, redness and excessive tearing. If you notice such symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. Get used to the procedures from an early age, otherwise you simply won’t be able to cope with an adult Irish Wolfhound. After hygiene procedures, be sure to praise him and treat him with his favorite treat.

1. Fleas cause allergic reactions, dermatitis, severe itching, anemia, and transmit infectious diseases.
2. Ixodid ticks are carriers of a deadly disease - piroplasmosis (babesiosis). They are especially active and dangerous in early spring - summer - autumn.

If you find a tick, do not panic. If possible, contact your veterinarian immediately. He will remove the tick, conduct an examination and be able to test for the presence of piroplasmosis.

At home, you can remove a tick yourself:

• Drizzle vegetable oil on it.
• Using tweezers or a fashionable and convenient tick twister today, grab the head closer to the skin and gently unscrew the tick from the body using circular movements.
• Inspect the wound to see if the head remains and treat it with an antiseptic.

Monitor your Irish Wolfhound's health over the next few days. If he is active, eats with appetite, has no fever, everything is fine.

But after noticing the following symptoms:

• Refusal to eat and drink
• High body temperature (39 - 41 degrees)
• Lethargy, apathy towards everything that happens
• Red-brown urine
• Yellowing of the whites of the eyes

Go to the vet immediately, otherwise the dog may die without medical help.

There are several types of flea and tick remedies:

1. Drops (apply to the withers area once a month, do not bathe for 10 days)
2. Spray (it is used to treat wool before a walk, bed and clothes)
3. Tablets (taken orally, protect for up to 12 weeks)
4. Collar (protects when worn continuously for up to 7 months)

The drugs are selected according to the weight of the animal, and it is best to consult a veterinarian before purchasing.

The owner must approach the issue of feeding the Irish Wolfhound responsibly. In large breeds, problems with limbs are more common; a diet is selected that is as balanced as possible and enriched with essential substances and minerals. Of course, the easiest way is to consult with the breeder who sold the puppy than to feed the wolfhound. A responsible breeder will definitely offer help and advise the best for the kids.

There are two types of feeding for the Irish Wolfhound:

1. Dry ready-made food
2. Natural food

Of course, there are pros and cons to both. Ready-made food should only be of premium class, which means it is not cheap. Its advantage is that you don’t have to waste time on preparation; it already contains balanced vitamins and microelements.

Natural products are also not cheap, and you will always have to calculate the correct proportions of vitamins and minerals yourself, and a lot of time is spent on preparation. You always know what the food is made from. In any case, no matter what type of food you prefer, remember, never mix dry food and natural food with water feeding.

How correctly you develop a diet for a growing organism depends on its health and well-being throughout life. A young body must be provided with the nutrients necessary for proper development and functioning. Improper feeding leads to rickets, poor bone structure, poor growth and insufficient muscle development.

Number of feedings for an Irish Wolfhound puppy:

• up to 1.5 months - 6 times a day
• 2 - 3 months - 4 times a day
• 3 - 6 months - 3 times a day
• after 6 months - 2 times a day
• after a year feed 2 times a day

The Irish should be fed only after a walk, freshly prepared food at room temperature. Provide constant access to drinking water. The portion should be eaten within 20 minutes, otherwise we put the bowl of food in the refrigerator until the next feeding.

Consult your veterinarian about what vitamins are needed for full development.

Healthy foods:

• Lean meat, rabbit, beef, chicken (scalded or boiled)
• Low-fat cottage cheese
• Sea fish without bones
• Greenery
• Vegetables
• Fruits
• Porridge (buckwheat, rice)

Prohibited products:

• Fat meat
• Smoked meats
• Sweets
• Excess salt
• Seasonings
• River fish
• Tubular bones
• Legumes
• Chocolate

Irish Wolfhound Disease

• Gastric volvulus (suffers from bloating when gases accumulate in his stomach. The stomach may become distended to the point that he will need to be hospitalized immediately. Feed your Irish Wolfhound small amounts and place the bowl at a slight incline)
• Von Willebrand disease (non-blood clotting)
• Osteochondrosis of the shoulder (a congenital disease leading to degenerative disease of the shoulder joint)
• Patella luxation
• Cataract
• Hip malformation (a process in which the hip joint develops abnormally and causes pain and lameness in animals)
• Atrial fibrillation (heart rhythm disorder)
• Pyoderma (skin infections)
• Osteogenic sarcoma (cancer of the bones of the limbs or appendicular skeleton)
• Hypothyroidism (thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones)
• Wobbler's syndrome (a spinal defect in the neck that causes weakness and even paralysis)
• Entropion (eyelashes grow inward and irritate the eyeball)

Rapid age-related changes can cause heart problems, improper bone healing and cancer.

Photo of Irish Wolfhound

Video of Irish Wolfhound

Wolfhound is the name of a whole category of dogs that are distinguished by their particularly large size and strong character. Next to a good, responsible owner, these pets become faithful guards, brave defenders and cheerful companions. Where did the concept of “wolfhound” come from, what breeds does it unite and what future owners of such dogs should know about – let’s talk in more detail.

Family Characteristics Assessment

A distinctive feature of wolfhounds is their physical parameters:

• the average height of a dog at the withers is 70 cm;
• weight - about 80 kg.

Other common features include:

• endurance;
• speed;
• strength;
• fearlessness;
• independence;
• devotion.

Important! In the last century, some breeds related to wolfhounds were in danger of extinction. Many countries have banned the export abroad of these large dogs with excellent fighting and hunting qualities, and their reproduction within the country quickly began to decline. The Irish and Caucasian wolfhounds especially suffered from such bans.

Each breed from this category has its own characteristics of temperament and character, but all of them are the result of selection, which was carried out for a specific purpose.

Did you know? Monks from monasteries in the Swiss Alps were the first to use dogs as search and rescue dogs more than three hundred years ago. Their pets were trained to search for travelers lost in the mountains and lead them to human settlements.

Origin of the breed and purpose

It is not known exactly when the first wolfhounds began to be bred. Powerful dogs were needed as protectors of pastures and livestock from forest predators, primarily wolves. Selection processes were carried out in different regions at approximately the same time, but independently of each other.

Video: wobaks capable of killing a wolf

And although their course had its own characteristics, the results were the same: new breeds of defenders arose.

Today wolfhounds are used:

1. Shepherds. You can still see large dogs guarding the herd next to these people.
2. Hunters. The speed and strength of the new breeds allow them to successfully drive game and even fight large predators.
3. Rescuers. Wolfhounds are highly trainable, obedient and intelligent, which is why they participate in rescue expeditions in many countries.

Advantages and disadvantages of the breed

Before getting a wolfhound as a pet, future owners need to weigh all the pros and cons.

Among the advantages of these types, experienced dog breeders name:

Important!PSuch advantages are typical only for well-mannered individuals. If the owner has not paid enough attention to training the puppy, then it will be difficult to get along with an adult dog.

The disadvantages of wolfhounds appear in cases where these large animals have irresponsible owners who did not conduct a preliminary study of the nuances of the breed, but immediately got a pet. For those who are well acquainted with this category, the disadvantages turn into features of caring for a pet.

Those who plan to adopt a wolfhound should remember:

Did you know?You can often see a guide dog leading its owner across the road. Many people think that a smart dog reacts to the inclusion of green, but in reality everything is different. Dogs are colorblind by nature, so guides react not to a change in color, but to the movement of other people or the stopping of traffic.

Appearance and character of the descendants of hunting dogs

Today, eleven breeds are classified as wolfhounds, among which there are both very well-known species and those familiar only to experts. Moreover, each of them has its own requirements for future owners.

The most famous representative of the category comes from Ireland and has a truly cheerful, easy-going disposition of the local residents. This is an ideal friend for owners of large houses who dream of a playful and kind pet.

These giants live both in villages, where they still work as shepherds, and in cities, as guards and nannies for children. They love to accompany their owners on horseback riding, cycling and hiking, where they have the opportunity to burn off their energy.
The breed is absolutely non-conflict, it shows aggression only when defending itself, it has patience, intelligence, and balance. He will remember the insult for a long time, he will suffer about it, but he is unlikely to take revenge.

The hard and shaggy coat of white-gray-black shades protects wolfhounds from the cold, fitting tightly to the body. Due to his height of 71-79 cm, the Irishman was included in the ranking of the tallest dogs, and if you put him on his hind legs, he will reach 2 meters.

He has a graceful body, a slightly elongated back with a rounded lower back allows him to develop great speed. The hock joints are located on the long, beautifully curved limbs, giving additional flexibility to the body.

Smooth-haired and wire-haired are officially recognized, but the former are difficult to meet today: the island climate is too harsh for them.

Important!Due to its good character, if it is not raised correctly, instead of a formidable wolfhound, the dog quickly turns into a cowardly, uncontrollable dog. Therefore, the owner needs to gain the trust and respect of the pet from the first days of acquaintance - only in this case will the puppy be able to train.

Caucasian breed of wolfhounds

This breed has not yet achieved official recognition, but this does not prevent it from being popular among dog breeders. These wolfhounds are preferred by those who need a good guard and hunting companion - after all, this is a ferocious animal that can cope with both a wild boar and a lynx.

Developed muscles give it massiveness, and strong jaws on a short muzzle complete the image of a predator. Muscular limbs support a large but lean body, covered with short, thick hair of various colors.

A close relative of the wolfhound is the Caucasian Shepherd Dog, but even this breed is inferior to its older brother in strength. Power is inherent in these dogs genetically: for a long time they developed without human intervention, in the wild, where only the strongest survived.

Experienced dog breeders, according to the old tradition, crop the ears and tail of Caucasian wolfhounds: it is believed that this procedure improves hearing, and the cropped tail makes the dog sleep more sensitive, allowing it to react better to the enemy.

An aristocrat among large dogs - this is how this breed can be briefly described. It is distinguished by a smart, slightly elongated muzzle that proudly rises above a lean body covered with long hair.

While resting, the greyhound gives the impression of a pampered, lazy pet, but when it smells prey, this sleek dog instantly turns into an aggressive predator.

Did you know?In their homeland, there are many legends about these dogs; they often became faithful companions of heroes and historical figures, and today Irish wolfhounds have been full-fledged guardsmen of the Shamrock Cloverleaf since 1908. During service, they accompany the sentries, have their own uniform, and begin training for a responsible post from birth. Such “military men” live with their human partners, taking over shifts with them.

The breed was once bred to hunt hares and wolves, which it still does successfully today. Such dogs are chosen by hunters who have a family: the graceful, long-legged animal gets along well with children, is distinguished by patience and silence.

His entire temperament manifests itself only during the game's rut. Being a very intelligent dog, the Russian Greyhound cunningly approaches any fight with an enemy, but never retreats, even if it loses in strength or size.

The only problem- a dog of this breed has a hard time surviving a change of owners. Because of this, he may eat poorly, get sick, and feel angry.

Did you know?Just like people, dogs dream. In large breeds, visions occur once every 45–60 minutes, in small breeds - every 10 minutes. Puppies and older dogs dream more often.

It is considered a difficult breed to train. By nature, these dogs have amazing independence and leadership, so they regularly challenge the superiority of their owners.

Gampras appeared in Armenia, but humans did not actively participate in the formation of this breed. Nature endowed her with strength, fearlessness, irrepressible energy, as well as intelligence.

Important!Gampras rarely take root in apartments: they are too cramped there. Discomfort provokes the awakening of their worst character traits, so in such conditions both the dog and its owner suffer.

Only a person with a strong will and character will be able to dominate the Gampr, regularly proving his superiority. Of course, you should never hit a dog, but you can’t do it without regular training and long walks.

The largest of the schnauzers, the result of selection by German breeders, was bred to help farmers.

These beautiful dogs look harmless, looking with a devoted gaze from under their characteristic bangs or whining with longing for their owner, but their appearance is deceiving: under the thick hair lies developed powerful muscles that allow the animal to perform the functions of a watchman and protector.

The lean Bavarians perfectly play the role of guards and protectors, which is why they are still often owned by landowners or farmers. In the vast expanses of farms, these dogs are happy, having the opportunity to run and jump to their heart's content, while in the city they are uncomfortable.

Expressive eyes sparkling under a beautiful, thick coat with red markings immediately reveal the intelligence and intelligence of these dogs.

It is one of the best guard breeds that have ever been bred in Central Asia. Representatives of this breed learn easily and quickly, because nature has endowed them with excellent memory.

Did you know?Dogs understand up to 250 words and gestures, even counting to five. Their intelligence can be equated to the level of a two-year-old child.

Hunters, shepherds, owners of vast territories are happy to have “Buryats”, because the breed harmoniously combines a beautiful exterior, a friendly character and excellent watchdog qualities.

More like a big fluffy ball of snow-white fur, which has nothing in common with a formidable wolfhound. Against the background of long fur, only the black tip of the nose and the periodically appearing pinkish tongue stand out. However, an outwardly soft and kind dog is in fact capable of demonstrating the power and strength of a bear.

Various breeds took part in the selection of the species, so the strong, intelligent dog got such an original exterior. These dogs are rarely taller than 65 cm in height; they are accustomed to being close to their owner most of their time.

Ukrainian Shepherds have a strong, simple character. They are loyal to one owner and do not pay attention to others, but it is undesirable to offend them. The dog is kind by nature, but it will remember the insult, and then find a way to take revenge.

Important!During World War II, these dogs, which were originally bred as herding dogs, actively helped doctors and orderlies carry the wounded from the battlefield. Such dedication almost led to the complete disappearance of the population, but through the efforts of dog handlers, the breed was able to be revived.

Bravery, vigilance, speed of reaction - these are the key features of the Kyrgyz Taigan that distinguish it from other Central Asian greyhounds. Initially, the breed was planned for hunting marmots, badgers, and foxes, so in comparison with other wolfhounds it has modest parameters.

But in hunting, a small flock is most often used, and a team of such animals can cope with even the largest predator.

This is entirely a hunting breed. During the rut, dogs can run all day without feeling tired. During rest, they are calm, slightly phlegmatic, their aggression awakens only for business. But this arrangement of life is characteristic only of trained adult dogs.

Taigans begin to be trained early, trained to hunt game. Such a dog will be an excellent companion for an avid hunter; it does not show itself in other areas of life.

Experts believe that with its grace, long legs, lean body, and silky smooth coat, the Tazy resembles an Arabian horse. This breed was bred to hunt small game, because it has amazing speed and endurance, despite its external fragility.

As an intelligent animal, the tazy never damages the skin of the caught animal, preserving the value of the fur. Excellent instincts and innate cunning help the dog lead the hunter along the scent, and often catch small animals on their own.

Did you know?Today, many breeds participate in sport hunting. The purpose of such a competition is to test the hunting qualities of the dog and its owner. Unlike real hunting, in sport hunting it is important to drive and search for game, not kill it.

Tazy calmly tolerates life in the city, but only in the company of an active, active owner who loves walking. In this case, it is better to keep the dog on a leash, otherwise its hunting nature may inappropriately awaken when meeting an ordinary cat.

Pyrenean mountain dog, or Pyrenean wolfhound

His pride is his beautiful fur. It was this detail that French breeders paid special attention to when working on the breed. A majestic appearance and a proud carriage of the head immediately reveal the dog’s leadership abilities, so quality training is indispensable. Previously, the Pyrenean wolfhound was raised as a shepherd or hunter, but today the dog performs well as a nanny for children and a family protector. It’s just better to live with him in the countryside or in the suburbs, since he vitally needs a lot of open space to play.

Thanks to their strength and endurance, mountain dogs have long become helpers of rescuers, boldly going to the aid of victims of avalanches and landslides in the mountains.

The huge head, powerful jaws, strong paws and massive body made him a famous representative of this category of dogs. Alabais were created for hunting bears, and a young healthy dog ​​is able to cope with such a task alone.

Important!These dogs chew bones like meat, without much difficulty.Alabai quickly becomes aggressive, and he can only be stopped in this state with the help of brute force or sedatives.When going for a walk with such a pet in a crowded place, its owner must carefully follow safety rules and remember the characteristics of his dog so as not to jeopardize the health of other people.

This is a loyal, brave breed, but its shortcomings should be recognized before purchasing - after all, independence, aggression towards other dogs, difficult training, combined with outstanding physical parameters, can pose a significant danger to the future owner.

Training and education

Wolfhounds cannot be imagined without training and education. They go through a general course, then some breeds need to work on their owner's leadership. Additionally, they work with the dog depending on its specialization: shepherd, guard, etc.

When training wolfhounds and communicating with them, adhere to the following rules:

1. Don't rush. These dogs were created for work, not for decoration, so they know how to think. Before executing a command, the animal needs to think about it and understand it.
2. They understand everything well, so when faced with a refusal from the dog, do not rush to blame him. Most likely, you are behaving incorrectly, which your pet is clearly trying to tell you about.
3. Respect the dog. Speak firmly, calmly, loudly, if necessary, but do not shout, do not hit the dog or wave your arms. Most wolfhounds are capable of taking offense at such incorrect behavior.
4. Try to get rid of fuss, uncertainty, sentimentality. The pet will perceive them as weakness, and then it will be difficult for the owner to prove his strength.

Video: secrets of raising the perfect dog

But most importantly, never forget that this is a large, physically strong animal that needs to be controlled. The consequences of carelessness regarding wolfhounds can be tragic.

Home care

There are three golden rules for keeping these dogs comfortable:

• A lot of space;
• active lifestyle;
• proper care.

Wolfhounds rarely feel good indoors; equipped enclosures in the yard are more suitable for them - even in a booth their powerful bodies are cramped. Be sure to place a bowl of water in the enclosure and keep it clean.

If, however, the dog lives in an apartment, then in this case you need to walk the dog at least 3 times a day, it is advisable to do this in nature, where the pet can frolic without a muzzle and a leash.
Long-haired wolfhound breeds need regular brushing, otherwise their coat loses its well-groomed appearance. The absence of this procedure can even provoke the occurrence of skin diseases.

Important!Bathing is permissible only in case of very heavy contamination, but for hygiene purposes it will be more useful to treat enclosures and dog beds with special bactericidal preparations.

As for nutrition, the basis of the diet is meat, vegetables, and cereals. Wolfhound puppies eat often, they have a good appetite, because over the course of a year the size of the baby will increase significantly. But if the owner is frivolous about the regularity of walks, then his pet is at risk of obesity.

As the animal grows, the owner will determine the pet’s favorite foods, which can be fed more often in the future. Adults are able to independently limit themselves in food and not overeat.

If your pet has lost his appetite, temporarily switch him to a diet of bran and cereals, because the lack of appetite indicates overeating or mild digestive problems, so the dog needs fasting days.
A dog with unlimited movement will independently find the microelements and vitamins it needs in various plants and roots, but city dwellers periodically need to be fed with vitamin complexes.

Health and characteristic diseases

A large build and active lifestyle have a detrimental effect on the health of these giants.

They are characterized by the following diseases:

• disorders in the musculoskeletal system: dislocations, dysplasia, etc.;
• digestive problems, bloating;
• pyoderma;
• hypothyroidism;
• von Willebrand disease;
• vision problems, cataracts.

Wolfhounds do not suffer from allergies. Timely vaccinations will help protect your wolfhound from viral infections. The first injections are given at 7-8 weeks with complex medications for major diseases. At 12 weeks the injection is repeated, and then a rabies vaccine is given. Subsequently, the procedure is repeated every year.

Important!Study the pet's pedigree before purchasing, paying special attention to the parents' medical documents. Then there will be a chance to get rid of negative heredity.

How to choose a puppy and prices for family members

It is better to buy babies in nurseries or from trusted breeders. First, decide on the breed, study its official standard so that you know what nuances in the dog’s appearance to pay attention to.

Review the documents for the puppy and its parents to have a complete picture of the future pet. Be sure to ask the seller about what the baby has already learned - the cost also depends on this. Considering the prices of wolfhounds, choosing a puppy requires care so that money is not wasted.

The cost varies significantly depending on the pedigree and characteristics of the baby, but approximately the following amounts can be given:

In addition to the pedigree, age, and skills of the baby, its price is also affected by gender: females, which can potentially bring profit in the future, are more expensive.

Puberty and mating

Reproduction can begin after dogs reach sexual maturity. In females it occurs at 1.5–2 years (or after the third estrus), in males - at 2–2.5 years. For a successful result, it is desirable that the partner is older and more experienced.

Good offspring will be produced by animals of the same breed, similar color, and healthy at the time of mating. The last factor is important for females, because their immunity is weaker, so they can easily suffer from the process.

It is recommended that the mating itself be carried out in the male’s territory, where everything is familiar to him and he is not so distracted. Depending on the massiveness of the partner, the female may need support: not every dog ​​can withstand 70 kg of live weight.

Important!Repeated mating after 2-3 days will help ensure a positive result.

Thanks to their name and outstanding parameters, wolfhounds attract the interest of many, which is why today the popularity of these breeds is at its peak.

Did you know?Dogs quickly adopt the character traits and habits of their owner. If the owner is unrestrained and rude, the dog will behave accordingly.

Many dog ​​breeders want to have a strong protector and assistant, but not all even experienced breeders imagine what kind of work it is to raise a wolfhound. Responsibility and strong character will become indispensable assistants in this process.

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Wolfhound is a collective name for large breeds of dogs used to hunt wolves or to protect pastures from wolves. When choosing a pet among hunting breeds, decide on the desired characteristics. The wolfhound is a dog divided into a number of different species. If you need a watchdog, the Irish Wolfhound is definitely not suitable. The dog is often called a "gentle giant." Let us first consider these main representatives of the group.

The dog breed is perfect for people with a country house, a large territory, who dream of a big, at the same time kind dog. Previously, dogs were used to hunt wolves, as the name of the breed suggests. Today the Irish Wolfhound is considered the best of the shepherds. Even when living in the city, the wolfhound retains and shows working qualities - it takes care of children and makes sure that no one lags behind on a walk. The dog will be a wonderful companion on a trip, on a hike or while horseback riding.

The four-legged animals are considered a national treasure of Ireland and came from there. Dogs of the breed were bred for protection and hunting, in particular, large predators. This instilled certain inclinations and qualities in the blood. It is impossible to predict the behavior of an ill-mannered dog in society, which means that what has been said places responsibility on the owner in terms of education and timely training.

History of the breed

The first mentions date back to the 1st century AD. We can safely consider the breed to be one of the ancient ones, with roots from Celtic domesticated wild dogs and wolf ancestors. Dogs were presumably brought to the islands of Ireland by the Celts, this happened 2300 years ago. The dogs spread quickly and were liked by the Irish, which is proven by the frequent presence of wolfhounds in folk epics and folklore. Even knights in Ireland depicted a dog of the breed on their armor, often ascribing similar words: “when you are affectionate with him, he is gentle, when you challenge him, he is terrible.”

In Europe, they were first noticed in England in the 300s of the first millennium. After the Roman conquerors arrived on the islands of Great Britain, dogs began to be exported; individuals spread across the continent, interbreeding with other breeds. For example, wolfhounds were considered common in the Roman Empire and were revered as court dogs by Quintus Aurelius and other emperors. In the past, dogs were revered not for beauty and obedience, but for aggression and working qualities; wolfhounds were valued as a gift to the nobility.

Already in the 14th century, the custom of using wolfhounds in hunting deer and wolves spread. According to testimonial descriptions, wolfhounds even then wore a hard coat that protected them from the harsh Irish climate. Sometimes up to two hundred wolfhounds were released into a herd of deer; the dogs simply hunted down the poor ungulates. The famous Cardinal Richelieu possessed a valuable breed; specimens of wolfhounds from Ireland were presented to a priest in 1641, and around that time they were sent to Italy and to the Duke of Tuscany. The spread and popularity of the breed was ensured by the fact: after a couple of centuries, Cromwell simply banned the export of dogs from Great Britain. Two centuries later, in 1885, a professional society of Irish Wolfhound lovers was finally created, and the first (quite accurate) standard was published by a certain Captain Graham. Serious selection of the breed began.

Appearance

Traditionally for the selection of dogs, the FCI number 160 classifies wolfhounds as a group of greyhounds. Dogs take a long time to mature, until they are 2 years old they are considered puppies and are not allowed to engage in serious hunting. In many ways, the exterior is similar to Deerhounds, but is considered large and massive. Each movement is filled with energy, strength, head and tail are held straight and with dignity.

1. General form. The Irish Wolfhound is huge, massive and muscular.
2. The character meets the requirements for a hunter: in behavior with people - obedient, even affectionate, with animals - aggressive and assertive.
3. The coat is hard and shaggy. Thick eyebrows and a beard of wool are formed on the muzzle.
4. Color varies from gray and black to rare pure white, shades of red and brown are allowed. Gray wolfhounds are more common.
5. Height: one of the tallest dogs in the world. Sometimes reaches the size of a small pony. Average height is 90 cm at the withers, from 71 cm for females and 79 cm for males. If you stand a wolfhound on its hind legs, it will exceed the height of a human and reach 2 meters in height.
6. Weight is approximately 47-48 kg (sometimes reaches 100-120 kg), from 40.5 kg for females and 54.5 kg for males.
7. The body is built gracefully and strongly at the same time, which gives excellent qualities of speed, strength and endurance. The back is slightly elongated, the loin is rounded. The rear is wide, toned, the stomach is tucked.
8. The tail flows from the spine, shows a saber shape, without a pretzel bend, and is covered with long hair.
9. The limbs are elongated, beautifully curved and strong. The hock joints are especially well developed. The paws at the tip are of medium size, with good feathering between the toes.
10. The skin fits well over the body, the ribs are even visible through the skin and fur, the ribs do not stick out.
11. Head. It is carried on a muscular neck, without a collar or dewlap. Detects traits:

• elongated feet with weak roundness of the frontal bones;
• smoothed hollow between evenly set eyes;
• ideal level or scissor bite;
• small rose ears;
• black nose.

Despite its power and large size, the dog breed is particularly flexible. It's funny and interesting to watch a dog in a dream. Most often, wolfhounds sleep in the “screw” position - the front of the body lies on the left side, the back on the right.

Initially, dogs of the breed were divided into two types: smooth-haired and rough-haired. Due to the harsh climate of Ireland, it is extremely difficult to find a smooth-coated Irish Wolfhound today.

Character and disposition of the dog

• The Irish Wolfhound shows a balanced character.
• He is distinguished by patience, generosity, thoughtfulness, and intelligence.
• A dog will never hurt a child, so feel free to have a wolfhound in a family with children.
• They are non-confrontational and avoid fights with other dogs. They simply run away from small animals and ignore them; at the sight of a large enemy they will take a militant pose, but will not be the first to act.
• Irish wolfhounds will never be the first to show aggression towards people; if they attack, they will begin to defend themselves.
• They experience grievances meaningfully and for a long time.

You will have to establish a trusting relationship with a wolfhound puppy and help him gain self-confidence, otherwise the pet will grow up to be a cowardly and uncontrollable dog. Even without a training course, if respect and love are shown, the dog will behave well in any situation. Representatives of the breed do not like loneliness. They need a family. They do not cope well with limited space and do not accept being tied up. It is better to get a dog in the private sector if there is a large area surrounded by a fence.

The Irish Wolfhound is not suitable for keeping in an apartment or city; it requires constant heavy physical activity and a huge area for walking. What also makes life in a metropolis impossible for a handsome man is his fur, which is lost profusely; given the size of the dog, it is clear that an extremely large amount of hair will be lost.

If you have to stay in an apartment building, be sure to take your dog for a walk in nature, let him run without a leash (away from people, walking without a leash is prohibited by law!). The wolfhound arranges short runs, establishing the necessary physical activity. When a dog lives in an apartment, it is little active and does not cause any inconvenience. Too short or, on the contrary, long walks are fraught with health difficulties.

Proper care of your Irish Wolfhound starts with consistency:

1. You will need to brush the coat about a couple of times a week (for a puppy – up to 5 times a week).
2. Show wolfhounds are sometimes trimmed. Tweezing is used to highlight the lines of the head and neck. It is useful to trim the hair in the neck and eye area as it grows.
3. Bathing is carried out once every 2-3 months using special veterinary shampoos.
4. It is important to trim your nails as needed.
5. After walking outside, the paws are inspected and dirt is removed between the toes.

Irish Health

Irish Wolfhounds do not complain of poor health; much depends on proper upbringing and the approach of the owner.

• Long hair interferes with the dog’s vision and in puppyhood will lead to abnormal formation of the pupils.
• It is very important to include psychological health issues in the topic. Individuals of the breed cannot stand loneliness; if family members are constantly absent from the house, the dog will begin to mope, get sick, lose weight and constantly feel unwell.
• The dog reacts to any stress with loss of appetite, refusal to follow commands, increased drowsiness, and apathy. If nothing is changed, the pet can become seriously ill or die.
• It’s easy to spoil a dog’s stomach if you feed it cheap food, pour boiling water on it, or overfeed the dog with sweets and flour products.

Good health is always indicated by a good appetite, lively behavior, a moist nose, and gesticulation of the tail.

The first rule of purchasing a puppy is to ask the breeder about vaccinations, deworming and the health of the mother. If vaccinations have not been done, it is important to first remove helminths. After vaccination, the dog is kept in quarantine for two weeks without contact with people or other animals.

Feeding your pet

An adult Irish Wolfhound eats little. Approximately 600-800 g of feed and several liters of water are consumed per day. Don't worry if your dog is on a fasting day and refuses to eat. It's quite normal. The wolfhound enthusiastically accepts fresh meat and 2-3 bananas.

Puppies require a special approach to nutrition. You need to carefully select food, vitamins and mineral supplements. They are chosen of high quality and correctly selected, then the puppies will remain healthy. Long walks, as well as overeating, can harm the puppy. There is no need to be afraid to give your dog freedom of action; let your pet determine the necessary physical activity and the amount of food taken.

Due to insufficient calcium in the puppy’s diet, curvature of the limbs occurs; excess calcium is dangerous. It is better to abandon mineral supplements with calcium in favor of cottage cheese, bones and bone meal and other products.

The wolfhound must receive the amount of calories that will be spent, and sufficient amounts of calcium and protein for growth and development. As the dog gets older, the amount of food and calories is reduced and the puppy moves from feeding 4-5 times a day to 1-2 times a day after a year. It is advisable to give most of the portion, if fed twice a day, to the dog in the evening, then giving the dog the opportunity to have a good walk before bedtime.

Any method of feeding is possible, natural “from the table” or dry food with canned food. Most adhere to the mixed type; the wolfhound is a large dog; it will take a lot of money to feed it with canned food or dry food. It is convenient to give dry food in the morning, for example, to feed porridge with meat or offal at night. In such a case, it will be necessary to give vegetables and vitamins in their pure form. You can't save money on buying good food.

Fortunately, Irish Wolfhound dogs have a good appetite. You cannot accustom yourself to constantly available food. After feeding, the bowl should be removed and then replaced with new food. Water sits in a bowl all day, consumption is not regulated.

The food supply for the Irish Wolfhound is thought out to the smallest detail. Feeding rules:

• Regularity and schedule. It is important to feed the puppy 5-6 times a day, gradually reducing the number of times and increasing the volume of food (individually for the puppy). Constant free access to food is fraught with overeating, too rapid growth of the puppy, and improper formation of the puppy’s organs and systems.
• Constant access to water – a lack of fluid in a dog’s body leads to serious difficulties, even the death of the pet.
• Balance in the diet. You can't feed your dog the same thing. The daily menu shows proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and an abundance of vitamins and minerals. The latter are purchased in ready-made pharmaceutical form; a lack of minerals results in hip dysplasia and other diseases.
• Age restrictions. Food for adults is contraindicated for a puppy and vice versa.
• Dairy and fermented milk products, lean raw meat, cartilage and tendons are allowed!
• It is better to puree vegetables and mix them with pieces of meat. Adult dogs love fruits, but not store-bought sweets or homemade cakes.
• If your dog eats liquid food, it is important to give him a bone to clean his teeth.

If you absolutely don’t know what to give your dog, consult the seller. He knows exactly what to give the dog and will recommend homemade diet components or a brand of ready-made store-bought food that the puppy’s mother ate. Anything uneaten should be removed from the bowl so that the quality of the food is not deteriorated by insect waste products, dust, or heat. Water and food bowls are kept clean!

What to feed your Irish Wolfhound:

1. Store-bought balanced feed;
2. Meat and vegetable dishes with the addition of milk or fermented milk products;
3. It is important to give your dog vitamins and minerals; it is permissible to consult a veterinarian;
4. It is better to replace animal fats with vegetable oil;
5. It is better not to offer fish, or just a little fillet, no more than 3-4 times a month.

Training and education

Remember, the Irish Wolfhound understands what is required. However, you should not expect lightning-fast submission from the dog; the dog first thinks about its actions, then does it. The trainer must know the correct pace of execution. The dog must be treated with respect; it does not tolerate rude behavior.

The wolfhound's intelligence and condition are extremely important, plus the mental state is taken into account. It is advised to socialize the dog as early as possible, teaching it to communicate with people and other dogs. You should constantly train your intellect with commands and active games, set new tasks for the wolfhounds, change places of walking - from a deserted grove to a popular area or to a dog walking area. It is important to teach the wolfhound obedience commands; they will have to be repeated and practiced for a long time, until the age of two, until the period of growing up ends, the dog is able to show signs of disobedience. The main thing is to set priorities in time, to show who is boss in the family pack.

• The Irish Wolfhound dog breed is distinguished by its flexible, calm and kind character.
• Obedient and responsible. Commands are easy to learn.
• A dog of this breed needs to be trained and trained from the age of one month.
• The training of the Irish Wolfhound is expected to be regular, constant and intensive.
• It is important to know that dogs of this breed are easily and often distracted by extraneous things, which makes them not very responsible performers. They can easily learn standard commands, such as “sit”, “run”, “fetch”, “no”, “stand”.

Even the best execution of commands will not guarantee a pet’s flawless performance at races or in speed competitions. They are suitable for family holidays in nature, but they will make a name for themselves in competitions where you will need to chase a mechanical hare.

The Irish Wolfhound breed is the oldest in the world. The dogs are kind and do well with children. Aggression is inherent exclusively in the event of an attack. They will never rush and bite first. If you need a watchdog, the Irish Wolfhound is not suitable. His role is that of a family friend, everyone’s favorite, a faithful and brave dog, with whom it is possible to live in perfect harmony for more than 10 years.

Photos and price of puppies

Irish Wolfhound puppies will cost from 50 to 80 thousand rubles on average.

For security and protection, the Caucasian wolfhound would be an ideal option. This dog is powerful, strong and smart. A special type of wolfhound group that is worth talking about separately. There really is no dog better for protection than the Caucasian wolfhound. This dog breed is often called the aboriginal Caucasian Shepherd.

Description of the Caucasian wolfhound

Today the Caucasian wolfhound is already very popular, but the breed has not been officially recognized. Dogs are valued for their guarding, fighting and hunting qualities. For a long time, the dog breed generally developed without much human participation. Aboriginal Caucasian Shepherd Dogs were kept freely, only the strongest survived.

The Caucasian wolfhound dog is a strong and ferocious animal, capable of handling even lynx and wild boar during a hunt. The animal's ears and tail are docked - a tradition that has been carried out since ancient times. It is believed that cropped ears enhance the dog's hearing; a short tail allows the wolfhound to sleep lightly and not let enemies through.

The Caucasian wolfhound is distinguished by its large body and strength. The breed standard has not yet been approved. Dog handlers evaluate dogs based on their working qualities and exterior at the same time, and do not focus on a single feature, for example, color, size and other exterior details.

The wolfhound's fur is short and thick, and varies in color. Ears and tail must be cropped. The Caucasian wolfhound has a powerful head with strong jaws and a short muzzle. The dog of the breed is distinguished by an elongated body, a wide and muscular neck, a short loin and a long, slightly sloping croup. The tail is lowered, the stomach is tucked. The limbs are muscular, not long. The Caucasian Shepherd Dog and the Caucasian Wolfhound are very similar breeds.

Origin and development of the breed

In the North Caucasus, there were shepherd dogs of short-haired and long-haired varieties. Short-haired dogs were more resilient. They are not afraid of heat or long treks in the mountains - the vitality of individuals is surprisingly high. Dogs of the long-haired variety were distinguished by less mobility and endurance, showing a strong and powerful constitution.

Gradually, long-haired dogs began to be used as guards. Later, based on the animals, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog was created, which lost its skills in protecting sheep, but acquired other useful qualities, specializing in protecting houses and work sites.

Caucasian wolfhounds are a short-haired variety of shepherd dogs. They were able to preserve the working qualities of their ancestors. Previously, dog fights were often held between Caucasian wolfhounds and other dogs, which were popular and numbered thousands of spectators. In the 60s of the last century, a lot of dogs were destroyed due to the decree on shooting. Nowadays, working with the dog breed has become civilized. The breed is already discovering families and lines; breeding work is carried out under the constant supervision of professional dog handlers.

Once a taboo was placed on the purchase and sale of dogs of the Caucasian Wolfhound breed, slowing down development. In Central Asia and the Caucasus, the degeneration of animals even began. However, thanks to the efforts of interested dog handlers, the taboo was lifted, and now wolfhound puppies have already begun to be sold.

a brief description of

Aggressiveness Upbringing Training Intelligence Shedding Behavior with children Watchman Security guard Difficult to care for Endurance in the cold Endurance in the heat

The Irish Wolfhound is a unique breed that has a minimum height of dining table height. The giants of the canine world, despite their impressive appearance, touch with their kind eyes, long shaggy hair and “beard.” Everything is balanced in the wolfhound’s character: on the one hand, driven by hunting instincts, he is swift and persistent, and on the other hand, in a home environment, he is deprived unnecessary activity and fuss.

The breed is very attractive, but no one can say for sure why. Height? But there are no less “oversized” mastiffs and mastiffs. Unusual wool? But they are Russian or have more beautiful “hair”. Hunting qualities and speed running? In terms of these qualities, the wolfhound is inferior. What makes the breed popular and extremely prestigious is the amazing combination of greatness and devotion, crushing strength and sensitivity, high intelligence and affection.

The breed belongs to group 10 in the ICF classification, section 2 “Wire-haired greyhounds”.

The Irish Wolfhound is a breed with ancient origins. Mentions of it have been found since the time of the ancient Romans. It is known that at the end of the 6th century BC, the ancient Romans gathered for spectacles when large and hardy greyhounds entered into fights with lions. These fearless dogs, according to the surviving testimony of contemporaries, were brought from the country of Erin, that is, Ireland.

Mentions of huge broad-chested (bearded), greyhound-like dogs are found around 3000 BC: the warriors of the pre-Celtic race were accompanied by huge dogs. Also, images of similar dogs were found in Egypt, the finds date back to 2500 BC.

The Celts inhabiting the territory of Ireland were interested in breeding tall, strong dogs that could be used in hunting big game: deer, wolves, bears. Perhaps the blood of dogs that were bred in continental Europe and Ireland contained the blood of greyhound dogs, whose images were found in Egypt.

When breeding, the dogs' appearance was in second place; their working qualities were most valued. It is known that there were both smooth- and wire-haired dogs. Over time, wire-haired individuals began to predominate, which are frost-resistant and thrive in the harsh climate of Ireland. The breed was actively bred en masse and used in hunting. Records have been preserved that contain a description of a hunt when 200 wolfhounds were released on a herd of deer.

The Irish Wolfhound dog has been very popular in European countries since the 17th century. The breed was exported outside the country as a valuable gift to high-ranking and royal persons. This led to the fact that in Ireland itself the number of wolfhounds sharply decreased, right up to the point of extinction of the breed.

Cromwell’s ban in the mid-17th century on the export of dogs outside the country, and the efforts of enthusiastic breeder R.D. Richardson, who began to revive the breed in the mid-19th century, did their job: the number of Irish wolfhounds increased and interest in them increased again. A significant contribution to the development of the breed was also made by the breeder G.A. Graham, on whose initiative the Irish Wolfhound Lovers Club was created in the country. The official breed standard was also drawn up by Graham and was approved in 1885.

Characteristics, description, character

The Irish Wolfhound, whose personality does not correspond in any way to his impressive appearance and enormous height, is an intelligent and calm dog. He will make a bad guard, as he is not aggressive towards others, even strangers. She is very good-natured and gets along well with children and other animals.

Devotion, fidelity, and lack of self-will make the wolfhound a wonderful companion dog. It is characterized by:

• equilibrium;
• friendliness;
• sensitivity. Dogs do not like to be shouted at; they subtly sense the mood and state of their owner, to the point that they can get sick together with him. A muscular, strong wolfhound is very sensitive and can even be offended by a rude shout.

The modern Irish Wolfhound has lost its hunting properties and is used as a companion. Dog handlers do not recommend teaching a pet the basics of protective guard service, otherwise there is a risk of awakening in it the instincts that were inherent in the ancestors of dogs. These instincts can become unsafe for people around you.

Diseases

Irish Wolfhound diseases can be hereditary but acquired ailments that are common in large dogs. If the parents of an Irish Wolfhound puppy have hereditary diseases, the price will be different, so it is important to find out more about the puppy’s health condition in order to avoid surprises in the future.

• bloating, accompanied by gastric volvulus. Without treatment, the disease can lead to the death of the animal.
• heart disease: arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, von Willebrand disease;
• pneumonia. The cause of the disease can be not only infections, but also the ingress of water and foreign bodies into the lungs;
• hypothyroidism – decreased production of hormones in the thyroid gland;
• bone cancer;
• eye diseases: retinal dysplasia, cataracts;
• dysplasia of the elbow and hip joint.

Care and maintenance

The Irish Wolfhound is suitable for keeping in the house and in the apartment. Its huge size will never be a burden to its owners, since the dog is very delicate and sensitive, which never bothers family members. From the first days, the pet quickly gets used to the place allotted to him for sleep and rest.

During shedding, shaggy, coarse hair can end up everywhere around the house, so regular daily brushing is one of the important requirements in caring for the breed. You need to bathe your giant pet as needed.

The breed does not require long and active walks, but a spacious place for walking is a necessity. You also need to give the wolfhound the opportunity to run without a leash. If a dog is kept in a country house, then you should not keep it in an enclosure, because it is very important for it to be close to its owner, to constantly feel his attention and affection.

Education and training

When training, the dog owner must take into account that he has a smart, independent and independent dog in decision-making. Irish wolfhounds in modern times are rarely used for their intended purpose, but they need education and training so that they know how to behave in a city and unquestioningly obey their owner.

Wolfhounds are easy to train and can be trained. They need to be taught basic commands: stand, sit, fetch, run. Every now and then, hunting instincts may awaken in them, and during training, dogs may be distracted by small animals. For training to produce positive and lasting results, classes must be regular and intensive.

Puppies

You have decided to get an Irish Wolfhound breed: puppies begin to fall into the hands of new owners at 6-10 weeks. Owners need to be involved in raising a baby wolfhound from the first day in a new home. Irish Wolfhounds are a late-developing breed; they remain psychologically immature until 2 years of age.

1. The place to rest and sleep should be located in a quiet, spacious corner, protected from bright light and drafts.
2. Feeding the puppy follows a certain regimen. When buying a puppy, you should ask what food the breeder used. Once at home, the puppy is gradually transferred to a new type of food. Up to 3 months, the puppy is fed 5 times a day, from 3-6 months - 3 times a day, from six months the pet is gradually transferred to 2 meals a day.
3. Socialization begins from the first days. The puppy is introduced not only to other animals in the house and guests, but also to new sounds and situations so that the pet does not feel afraid of them.
4. Toilet training means constantly monitoring your puppy's behavior in the morning or after eating. If he starts to worry, then they take him to the toilet and wait for him to do his business.

Proper upbringing of a puppy is the guarantee that a small pet will grow into a large, powerful, controllable, obedient dog.

Prices

Everyone who likes the breed is concerned about the question: how much does an Irish Wolfhound cost? Prices for the breed in Russia remain among the highest. The high cost is associated with the prestige and rarity of the breed, as well as the high costs of breeders for breeding and maintaining dogs.

• Pet-class puppies that show deviations from the standard cost from 35 thousand rubles. They will not be bred but make excellent companions and pets.
• Breeding class puppies are the most popular in nurseries. They are suitable for participation in exhibitions and breeding work, but practically do not become champions. Their cost ranges from 36 to 55 thousand rubles.
• Show-class puppies - future champions - will cost 60 thousand rubles or more.

At bird markets, on online bulletin boards, and sites like Avito, you can find offers for a smaller amount. But such purchases run the risk of the puppy being without documents. The lack of information about the puppy’s parents should alert you to the fact that the new owner may end up with a puppy with poor heredity, not only in terms of health, but also character and behavior.

Photo

You have become acquainted with the Irish Wolfhound breed, a photo of which is presented in the gallery above. A dog with shaggy hair and a minimum height of 70 cm involuntarily arouses interest. The wolfhound, which has become the national pride of Ireland, is an attentive, non-aggressive and sensitive pet for every family.

Interesting facts about the breed:

• A purebred representative of the breed can be of different colors: fawn, black, wheaten, brindle. Spotting and predominance of white in color are not allowed.

• In Scotland, Irish wolfhounds have been “retrained”: they are sometimes used to herd sheep. Former wolf and bear hunters do just as well.

• The Irish Wolfhound is recognized as the tallest dog in the world, reaching a height at the withers of 80 cm. At the same time, they are lighter, in contrast to the largest dog by weight -. This breed had a maximum weight of 155 kg.

Video

The Irish Wolfhound is one of the largest breeds of hunting dogs in the world.

Gray and fawn Irish Wolfhounds.

Origin

The peoples of Ireland have long bred large dogs for hunting purposes, including Irish wolfhounds. Initially, wolfhounds were both smooth-haired and wire-haired, but due to the rather harsh climate, wire-haired dogs replaced the second species.

Written confirmation of the existence of this breed was found in the records of the Roman consul, dating back to 391 AD. Until the 17th century, Irish greyhounds were considered a rare breed and puppies were given to the royal courts of Scandinavia and Europe as a highly valuable gift. Over time, the breed spread to Sweden, England, India, Poland, and France.

The breed got its name in the 15th century, when each county kept at least 20 dogs of this breed in order to protect herds from wolves. But by the end of the 17th century, the breed was on the verge of extinction due to great demand abroad.

In 1885 the Irish Wolfhound Club was founded. In 1897, the breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club.

Appearance

Irish Wolfhounds are large breeds of dogs, their height reaches 80 cm, and their body weight is from 25 kg and the higher the height, the heavier the dog. The coat is tough, requiring care, but remains clean for a long time. Colors range from brindle and wheaten to black.

Irish Terriers are very active and not prone to obesity. These are stately and muscular dogs, arousing sympathy due to their strong physique and easy movements.

Character

Despite their impressive size and menacing appearance, Irish Wolfhounds are very friendly, so they cannot fully perform the tasks of guard dogs.

Representatives of this breed are easy to learn and train. Wolfhounds constantly demand attention and try to please, so they get along very well with small children.

Dogs can also be kept with other animals. Wolfhounds will never attack unless they see a danger to their owners.

Diet

The diet of wolfhounds should consist of lean meat, vegetables and greens. Soups are also necessary for normal stomach function. Dogs do not disdain sweet fruits, but you should not often pamper them with such delicacies.
The diet should be free of salt, confectionery and sugar.

To maintain health, a wolfhound must drink at least one and a half liters of water daily, so it is necessary to provide free access to a bowl of water and monitor its cleanliness.

Care

For a comfortable stay, a wolfhound needs a spacious and warm place to sleep, as well as an area where it can frolic and play without a collar or leash. A wolfhound needs a lot of time to walk; at least once a day, it is necessary to spend at least an hour and a half for this.

A wolfhound needs to be bathed approximately once every three months, or as the fur gets dirty. The coat should be brushed weekly and the wolfhound should be trimmed once a month, paying special attention to the space between the paw pads.

Such a large dog requires vitamins, which can only be selected by a specialist after examining the animal. He will also select dry food as an addition to the main food. You should not get carried away with such foods, as they have an adverse effect on the dog’s intestines.

It is necessary to remember about dental hygiene. As a cleaning product, you can buy special sticks or clean it yourself with a damp brush a couple of times a week.

Currently, the Irish Wolfhound is one of the most sought after and expensive breeds in the world.