| Height | 32 inches minimum (male), 30 inches minimum (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 120 pounds (male), 105 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 6–8+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Dignified / Courageous / Calm [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | Ireland [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 75 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Wolfhounds need exercise throughout their lives. Because they retain a strong instinct to hunt and chase prey, they should only be allowed loose in areas that are securely fenced, and any walks must be taken on a leash. As adults, Irish Wolfhounds can become couch potatoes if allowed to, but regular exercise such as long walks or play sessions will help keep them physically and mentally healthy. [1]
Grooming
Irish Wolfhounds have a double coat that consists of a harsh, wiry outer coat covering a soft undercoat. They shed throughout the year, but not to an excessive degree. A thorough brushing once a week or so will help to remove dirt and loose hair and keep the dog looking his best. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Like other large and deep-chested breeds, Wolfhounds can experience bloat, a sudden and life-threatening swelling of the abdomen, and owners should educate themselves about its symptoms and what to do should bloat occur. Responsible breeders will screen their breeding stock for health and genetic conditions such as pneumonia, heart disease, certain cancers and liver shunt. An annual examination, preferably by a veterinarian familiar with sighthounds, is recommended and should include an EKG. Extensive health information is available on the sites of the AKC breed club, the Irish Wolfhound Club of America, and its sister health organization, the Irish Wolfhound Foundation. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation, Cardiac Exam, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Serum Bile Acids. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a giant dog (median $607) | $350 – $1,373 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Irish Wolfhound in 1897. [1]
- It ranked No. 75 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 69 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Wolfhound, IW.” [1]
- The AKC lists Ireland as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 5 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 4/5)
Common questions
How long do Irish Wolfhounds live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 6-8 years.
How big does a Irish Wolfhound get?
AKC breed information lists height 32 inches minimum (male), 30 inches minimum (female) and weight 120 pounds (male), 105 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Irish Wolfhound?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For giant dogs like the Irish Wolfhound, a typical vet bill runs $350 – $1,373 (median $607). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.