Historically described as "gentle when stroked, fierce when provoked".

Considered the tallest of all dog breeds; when these dogs stand up, as in the picture, they are up to seven feet or 2.1 metres tall; their average height should be taller than that of the great Dane dog. These sighthound dogs were bred to pursue game with sight and speed, used for long solitary hunts – as opposed to scent hounds, they were also used as guardians against wolves. A Roman consul made reference to these dogs owned by the Gaels (ancient Irish) in 391.
Sadly, wolves were wiped out in all of the United Kingdom during the 17century. The wolfhound dogs were coveted by the Irish and were frequently given as gifts to important personages and foreign nobles.
By the late 1700's few wolfhounds remained in Ireland; they were no longer used for hunting but became symbols of status, and these were said to be the last of their breed.
The modern wolfhound was bred by Captain George Graham; he established the breed, the Irish wolfhound Club and breed standards in 1885. Graham created the appearance of the original form of the dog, but not its genetic ancestry. Into the mix of breeds that made up the modern wolfhound were the Scottish deerhound, the great Dane, Borzoi − a Russian sight hound and the Tibetan Kyi apsoi − where the longish fur comes from. In general, all wolfhounds have rough coats and they can come in grey, wheaten, white, faun, red and black colours.
Temperament: they have a various range of temperaments, and in fact, they are often noted for their personal quirks and individualism. Wolfhounds are rarely destructive and boisterous, but generally introverted, intelligent and reserved in character and quiet by nature. They often develop a strong bond with their human family and they do not do well when left alone for long periods of time. They tend to be protective with individuals but not as guard dogs that protect an owner's property and possessions.
Health: like most large dog breeds, wolfhounds have a relatively short lifespan. Estimates vary between six and 10 years, with seven years being the average lifespan. Bone cancer can be a major problem, and it is recommended to not desex this breed until they are fully mature and grown. As with other large breeds, cross bred wolfhounds are quite common in pounds and rescue centres.
Pam Brandis
Dip.Canine. Prac.