Irish Wolfhounds are one of the largest sized dogs in the world. These dogs are very tall and resemble a small pony in size. But in spite of their size, they are very gentle by nature and have been fondly nicknamed as the ‘gentle giant’. Thanks to being an easy going breed, Irish Wolfhounds are patient and sensitive. They do well with children as well as other pets. However, if the need arises, Irish Wolfhounds can display a lot of courage too. Irish Wolfhounds do not make good watch dogs since they are over-friendly. But because of their large appearance, outsiders or intruders get intimated. The Irish Wolfhound breed is easy to train as they respond well to firm leadership.

An Irish Wolfhound has a long head with a medium sized skull. The muzzle of the dog is longish with a point end. They have small ears, which are set towards the back of the head. The ears lie flat when the dog is at ease, but when it gets excited, they prick up and stand straight.

Irish Wolfhounds were originally bred for hunting wolves, elk and wild boar. Their name refers to the purpose for which they were bred and is not based on their appearance. Being war dogs, their physique is strong and built for hunting and running. Irish Wolfhounds have a strong, well arched and long neck. Their chest is deep and wide and ends in a long thick tail that hangs downwards and curves slightly. Being strong runners, Irish Wolfhounds have long legs with sturdy muscles and well let down hocks. Their feet are round having well arched toes. The forearms of this breed are muscular and brawny. However, with age Irish Wolfhounds can be vulnerable to cardiomyopathy, PRA, Von Willebrands and hip dysplasia.

The coat of an Irish Wolfhound has a wiry texture and looks shaggy. It has a rough feeling and is slightly longer on top of the eyes and underneath the jaw of the dog. This breed has a scraggly overall appearance due to the uneven distribution of fur. It sheds quite a lot. So, be prepared to find hair sticking to your clothes as well as furniture in case you have an Irish Wolfhound as a pet. To minimize shedding, an Irish Wolfhound needs to be brushed at least twice a week. The coat of an Irish Wolfhound comes in colors of brindle, red, black, gray, white or fawn. The most common of all these colors is gray.

The average height of a fully grown Irish Wolfhound is between twenty eight and thirty five inches. The weight of an adult dog can be anywhere from ninety to one hundred and fifty pounds. An Irish Wolfhound can reach up to a height of seven feet when standing tall.

Irish Wolfhounds are not easy to raise in apartments. They need wide open spaces to thrive. Moreover, the large size of the dog makes it harder to grow within a small space. Being social dogs, they need to be part of a big family in order to be happy and healthy.