Temperament: The Irish Wolfhound is known for its sweet temper and is a very intelligent, thoughtful dog. This breed is willing and eager to please with a wholehearted loyalty to their family. They are slow to mature and have a clumsy nature, taking around two years before they are fully grown. This breed needs good, high-quality, food as they grow rapidly. Hard exercise should be avoided in the puppy, although they still need to have good daily walks.

Basic training such as lead work needs to be carried out while the puppy is young and not having reached full strength. This dog is easy to train, and responds well to confident, gentle leadership. Giving this dog self-confidence, as a puppy, will help them develop into a well rounded dog emotionally.

The Irish Wolfhound breed gets on exceptionally well with other animals and can be trusted with children. Be sure to keep an eye on your dog with young children because this is a big breed, and they are prone to being clumsy. This dog needs to be part of a family and will be unhappy living outdoors.

The Irish Wolfhound is part of the sight hounds group, and will enjoy chasing so a secure garden that is well fenced is important.

Health issues: The Irish Wolfhound dog is prone to bone cancer, PRA, cardiomyopathy, Von Willebrand, hip dysplasia and bloat.

Grooming: The Irish Wolfhounds coat will need regular thorough brushing. Once or twice a year the coat will need plucking, to remove the dead hair. The Irish wolfhound is an average shedder.

Living conditions: The Irish Wolfhound dog needs a large garden, and although not active indoors apartment living will not suit this breed. This is a large dog that will need some space, and even things like your car will have to be thought of in regard to its size.