CATXDOG

Appearance: The Irish Wolfhound is tallest breed of dogs. Average height at withers is 86cm (34 inches), but many breeders are attempting to reach much higher, up to 133cm (52 inches). Their coat is rough and can be in several colors; gray, brindle, red, black, pure white, or fawn. They have long, muscular neck which ends in large arrow-shaped head. By the age of 8 months, the dogs appear adult, and many owners start stressing them too much. Do not do that! Even though they already reached their adult size, their growth is not complete. Their bones are not completed and muscles are not fully developed for supporting their weight in strenuous activities

History: The Irish Wolfhound is a very old breed. They are suspected to be developed in 1st century BC as they are mentioned in some Roman writings from that period. In Roman arenas this breed had the same reputation as lions, and was famed for its loyalty, discernment, grave nature and aggression (later was changed through selective breeding). It is believed they are bred by Celts as war dogs and their name at that time was Cú Faoil. The Irish continued breeding for such purpose and for protecting homes and stock, although at later time they found some other breeds to be more suited for such mundane tasks. By so Wolfhounds were used for dogfights and for hunting wolves and boars. Their size, intelligence and speed made them almost too good in hunting wolves because wolves were almost eradicated from Ireland. At one point the wolfhound was restricted to be owned exclusively by royalty and was exported as gift to other kings and noblemen. Because of that, the breed almost disappeared in 19th century. To protect the breed Captain Graham crossbred them with Deerhound, Borzoi and Great Dane. The breed remained, but changed appearance.

Temperament: Wolfhounds are gentle and friendly dogs. When in the house, they are very calm. They enjoy sleeping for a long time, but when you take them for walks they can be quite energetic. Despite their great size and sometimes intimidating appearance, wolfhounds are sensitive and should be corrected firmly but without anger. It is not recommended to be too rough toward them. They should be socialized from a young age so that they have a chance to gather experience. While historically Wolfhounds should show a strong guarding instinct, most modern Irish Wolfhounds are not temperamentally suited to be a guard dog.