Understanding Irish Wolfhound Health Issues and Prevention

Irish Wolfhounds are prone to certain health issues, and understanding these can help you provide the best care for your furry friend. Hip dysplasia is a common problem, with 70-80% of Irish Wolfhounds experiencing it in some form.

Giantism, also known as hypothyroidism, affects many Irish Wolfhounds, with 90% of the breed being affected. This condition can lead to a range of symptoms, including weight gain and skin problems.

Irish Wolfhounds are also susceptible to bloat, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. Bloat can occur at any age, but it's most common in dogs between 2-5 years old.

Regular exercise and a balanced diet can go a long way in preventing these health issues. By being aware of the potential problems and taking proactive steps, you can help your Irish Wolfhound live a happy and healthy life.

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Irish Wolfhounds are prone to heart disease, with atrial fibrillation (A-fib) being a common issue. This can lead to congestive heart failure over time.

Monitoring your hound's heart health is crucial, especially with regular ECGs starting at a young age. This can detect heart disease in its early stages, when it's most responsive to treatment.

Irish Wolfhounds are especially prone to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a life-threatening condition where the heart becomes too large and weak to pump blood effectively. Symptoms can include weakness, fainting, labored breathing, and coughing.

A yearly electrical heart screening (ECG) and/or echocardiogram starting at age one can help detect abnormal heart rhythms early. If found, treatment with medication and dietary supplementation may be recommended.

To diagnose cardiac disease in Irish Wolfhounds, it's best to see a Veterinary Cardiologist, a licensed veterinarian with advanced training in cardiology. These specialists have 3-5 years of cardiac-specific training and 2 years of extensive cardiac exams.

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Irish Wolfhounds are especially prone to a life-threatening heart condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, in which the heart becomes so large, thin, and weak that it can no longer effectively pump blood to the body.

Atrial fibrillation, or A-fib, is the most common heart irregularity found in Irish Wolfhounds, and it can develop into congestive heart failure over time.

Ventricular premature complexes or contractions, or VPCs, are also a concern in this breed.

About 30% of Irish Wolfhounds will develop atrial fibrillation before the age of 6 years.

Cardiomyopathy can develop at any time in a dog's life, and it's essential to monitor your Irish Wolfhound's heart health regularly.

Diagnosing cardiac disease in Irish Wolfhounds requires advanced training and equipment, and a Veterinary Cardiologist should perform annual advanced cardiac screening/evaluations.

To diagnose cardiac disease, a Veterinary Cardiologist will examine and classify your Irish Wolfhound, and they must have 3-5 years of cardiac-specific training, 2 years of extensive cardiac exams, and ACVIM credentials.

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Regular monitoring of your Irish Wolfhound's heart health, including annual or semi-annual ECGs, can detect heart disease in its early stages, when it's most responsive to treatment.

Megaesophagus is a condition where the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach, doesn't contract properly to move food down.

Food stays in the esophagus instead of going into the stomach, which can cause vomiting of undigested food.

Dogs with megaesophagus may throw up tube-shaped portions of food.

Special feeding postures and dietary modifications may be needed to manage this problem.

Inhaling bits of food is a common complication of megaesophagus, which can lead to severe pneumonia.

A quick and painless x-ray can help diagnose megaesophagus, so be sure to let your vet know if you notice any unusual eating behaviors or vomiting after eating.

Respiratory problems can be a serious concern for Irish Wolfhounds, and it's essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms. Pneumonia is a common issue, often caused by aspiration of foreign material into the lungs, which can come on quickly, leaving your dog running a high fever and struggling to breathe.

Irish Wolfhounds often refuse to lie down and stand with their head and neck extended, and may or may not cough. It's crucial to act fast if you suspect pneumonia, as it must be treated aggressively and for a sufficient period of time to prevent recurrence.

Blood work will show an elevated white cell count, which is especially significant in Irish Wolfhounds, as most have a lower than normal white blood cell count, typically running between 5,000 to 7,000.

Pneumonia is a serious condition that can affect our beloved Wolfhounds.

The most common cause of pneumonia in adult Wolfhounds is aspiration, or inhalation, of foreign material into the lungs.

Aspiration pneumonia can be caused by gulping water or food, vomiting, or as a sequel to myasthenia gravis, a degenerative neurologic disease.

Wolfhounds are prone to developing pneumonia quickly, often running a high fever and having trouble breathing within the same day.

They may refuse to lie down and stand with their head and neck extended, and may or may not cough.

X-rays can show typical signs of pneumonia, with blotchy white areas in the lungs.

Blood work will show an elevated white cell count, which is especially significant for Wolfhounds, as they typically have a lower than normal white blood cell count.

A medical note: a white cell count of ten thousand is considered elevated for Wolfhounds, even if the laboratory range considers counts up to fourteen thousand "normal."

Pneumonia must be treated aggressively and for a sufficient period of time to prevent recurrence, which can be as long as two or even three months.

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Shallow breathing in dogs can be a concerning sign, and it's essential to pay attention to the reasons behind it. A dog's normal temperature is usually between 37.1 and 39.1 degrees Celsius, and knowing this can help you identify if their shallow breathing is due to a raised temperature.

If your dog is panting or breathing shallowly, it might just mean they're hot or have been running around. However, it's also a sign that warrants a closer look.

Irish Wolfhounds are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. These infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors.

Many of these infections can cause serious health issues in Irish Wolfhounds, but regular vaccination can help prevent them. It's essential to stay on top of her vaccination schedule to keep her protected.

Roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms are just a few examples of the parasites that can infest an Irish Wolfhound's body. These parasites can cause pain, discomfort, and even death, so it's crucial to test for them regularly and use preventive medication as necessary to keep her healthy.

Irish Wolfhounds are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections such as parvo, rabies, and distemper.

Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors.

Irish Wolfhounds can also get roundworm infections, which can be a serious health issue.

Vaccination is a crucial step in preventing these infections, so be sure to stay on top of your dog's vaccination schedule.

Parasites can invade your Wolfhound's body, inside and out, from fleas and ticks to ear mites.

Everything from hookworms to roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can infest your dog's system in various ways, such as drinking unclean water or walking on contaminated soil.

These parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone.

For your canine friend, these parasites can cause pain, discomfort, and even death, so it's essential to test for them on a regular basis.

We'll recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep your Wolfhound healthy.

Cancer is a leading cause of death in older Irish Wolfhounds, and early detection is critical for a good prognosis. Many cancers are cured by surgically removing them, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy.

Osteosarcoma is the most common bone tumor in dogs, typically affecting middle-aged large and giant breeds like Irish Wolfhounds. Early symptoms include lameness and leg pain, so call your veterinarian right away if you notice your dog is limping.

Irish Wolfhounds are also prone to Von Willebrand's disease, a blood clotting disorder that can cause severe bleeding during surgery or after an injury. Diagnostic testing can check for this problem before surgery to ensure your pet's safety.

Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs, and your Irish Wolfhound is more prone to get it in their golden years. Early detection is critical, and we'll perform periodic diagnostic tests to catch any potential issues.

Many cancers are cured by surgically removing them, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. This means that with prompt treatment, your dog can live a long and healthy life.

Osteosarcoma is the most common bone tumor in dogs, and it typically afflicts middle-aged large and giant breeds like your Irish Wolfhound. Early symptoms include lameness and leg pain.

If you notice that your dog is limping, call us right away, as early detection is critical for a good prognosis. The sooner we can remove the tumor, the better your dog's chances are for a full recovery.

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Bleeding disorders in dogs can be inherited and range in severity from very mild to very severe.

Many dogs seem normal until a serious injury occurs or surgery is performed, and then severe bleeding can result.

Von Willebrand's disease is a blood clotting disorder frequently found in Irish Wolfhounds.

We'll conduct diagnostic testing for blood clotting time or a specific DNA blood test for Von Willebrand's disease or other similar disorders to check for this problem before we perform surgery.

Irish Wolfhounds are prone to eye problems that can cause blindness and pain if left untreated. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older IWs, where the lenses of the eyes become cloudy instead of clear.

Entropion, a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, can cause irritation and pain. This condition is especially common in Irish Wolfhounds and can lead to blindness if not treated early.

Distichiasis is a painful condition caused by extra hairs growing inside the eyelid, rubbing against the surface of the eye. This condition can cause corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain if left untreated.

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Irish Wolfhounds are also at risk for musculoskeletal problems, including dysplasia, which causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. Overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering.

Growing Irish Wolfhounds can suffer from osteochondritis dissecans, a condition where the cartilage in the joints doesn't attach properly to the bone, requiring surgery to fix. Panosteitis, a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs, is another common condition that usually causes no permanent damage but requires pain medication.

Eye problems can have a dramatic impact on a dog's quality of life. Many Irish Wolfhounds can inherit or develop different eye conditions, some of which can cause blindness if not treated right away.

Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Irish Wolfhounds. We'll watch for the lenses of their eyes to become more opaque, meaning they look cloudy instead of clear.

Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may be an option for some dogs. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine.

Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. This is an extremely irritating and painful condition.

Distichiasis is a condition caused by extra hairs that grow inside the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye. This is one of the most commonly inherited diseases in dogs.

Irish Wolfhounds are more likely than other dogs to develop distichiasis, which can cause corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain if left untreated. Several treatment options are available, and the prognosis is good once the hairs have been permanently removed.

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Bone problems can be a challenge for Irish Wolfhounds, but with knowledge and attention, you can help prevent undue pain and suffering.

Dysplasia is a common issue that affects both hips and elbows, causing joints to develop improperly and leading to arthritis. Stiffness in the elbows or hips may become a problem as your IW matures.

Overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, so keeping your dog at a healthy weight is crucial.

Osteochondritis dissecans, or OCD, can occur when puppies grow too quickly, causing cartilage in the joints to not attach properly to the bone. Surgery may be required to fix this problem.

Feed your puppy a large-breed puppy diet and stick to a recommended growth rate of no more than four pounds per week. Don't overfeed or supplement with additional calcium.

Eosinophilic panosteitis, or pano, is a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs that usually starts between six to ten months of age. It often shifts from leg to leg, and if your dog exhibits pain when the area is squeezed or palpated, X-rays will be taken to diagnose the problem.

Pain medication is usually required to treat panosteitis, and if your dog develops an abnormal gait to compensate for the sore leg(s), rehabilitation exercises may be necessary.

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Irish Wolfhounds are prone to a number of neurological and joint issues that can affect their quality of life. One such condition is wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, which causes a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck, pinching the spinal cord and associated nerves, leading to a wobbly, drunken gait.

This condition often starts with unstable hind legs, stumbling, and falling, and can be treated with medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery. If left untreated, it can cause permanent damage.

Another issue that affects Irish Wolfhounds is dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. This can lead to stiffness in the elbows or hips, lameness in the legs, and difficulty getting up from lying down.

To prevent or treat these issues, it's essential to monitor your Irish Wolfhound's growth rate and weight, as excessive weight can exacerbate joint problems. Feeding a large-breed puppy diet and sticking to a recommended growth rate of no more than four pounds per week can help prevent conditions like osteochondritis dissecans or OCD.

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Epilepsy is a neurological condition that affects dogs, and it's essential to understand the different types of seizures it can cause. There are three types: reactive, secondary, and primary.

Reactive seizures are triggered by a brain's reaction to a metabolic problem, such as low blood sugar or a toxin. Secondary seizures are caused by a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma.

Irish Wolfhounds are commonly afflicted with primary epilepsy, which is often an inherited condition. If your dog is prone to seizures, they will usually begin between six months and three years of age.

An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause of the seizures. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to keep seizures under control.

If your dog has a seizure, carefully prevent him from injuring himself, but don't try to control his mouth or tongue. It won't help him, and he may bite you accidentally!

Note the length of the seizure, and call a veterinarian or an emergency hospital for assistance.

Joint problems are a common issue in Irish Wolfhounds, and being aware of the potential risks can help you take proactive steps to prevent or manage them.

Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. This can lead to stiffness, lameness, and difficulty getting up from lying down.

Irish Wolfhounds that grow too quickly are more likely to develop osteochondritis dissecans or OCD, a condition where the cartilage in the joints doesn't attach to the bone properly.

Overfeeding and supplementing with additional calcium can contribute to rapid growth and increase the risk of OCD. Feeding a large-breed puppy diet and weighing your puppy every three to four weeks can help prevent this.

Eosinophilic panosteitis, also known as pano or eo-pan, is a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs that usually starts between six to ten months of age. It can cause pain and may lead to an abnormal gait if left untreated.

Panosteitis typically requires pain medication and rehabilitation exercises to manage the condition.

Lethargic dogs can be a worrying sign, and it's essential to pay attention to their behavior. If your dog looks not right, they are not right, as one of my own dogs found out when he collapsed in the garden due to a blockage in his stomach.

A lethargic dog can be a sign of a serious underlying issue, especially in giant breeds. This is one of those symptoms that can be difficult to convince a vet about, but it's always a good idea to stick to your guns and advocate for your dog's needs.

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Irish Wolfhounds are prone to genetic health issues, which can be prevented or managed with proper care. Many of these conditions are related to their breed, and knowing what to watch for can help prevent predictable risks.

Some common health issues seen in Irish Wolfhounds include genetic diseases and conditions. These issues can have a significant rate of incidence and/or impact in this breed.

Irish Wolfhounds are at a higher risk for certain health problems than other dogs. This doesn't mean your dog will definitely have these issues, but it's essential to be aware of the potential risks.

Brushing your dog's teeth daily can help prevent periodontal disease. This is a common issue in Irish Wolfhounds, and regular dental care can make a big difference.

Regular check-ins with your veterinarian will help you stay on top of your dog's unique medical needs. They can provide personalized guidance and help you develop a preventive health plan.

By taking proactive steps, you can help keep your Irish Wolfhound looking and feeling their best. With proper care and attention, you can reduce the risk of genetic health issues and ensure a long, happy life for your furry friend.

If you notice any of the following signs in your Irish Wolfhound, seek medical care immediately.

Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge can indicate a serious issue. It's essential to address these symptoms promptly to prevent further complications.

Inability or straining to urinate, or discolored urine, are also warning signs that require immediate attention.

Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes can be a sign of a serious eye infection or other condition.

The following table lists some common emergency signs to look out for in your Irish Wolfhound:

Drug side effects can be unpredictable and potentially life-threatening.

For example, taking certain medications like acetaminophen can cause liver damage if taken in excess.

Some medications, like blood thinners, can interact with other medications, such as antibiotics, and increase the risk of bleeding.

Medications like opioids can be habit-forming and lead to addiction.

Certain medications, such as antidepressants, can have a delayed onset of action, taking several weeks to become effective.

In some cases, medication side effects can be mistaken for symptoms of other conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis.

Anesthesia can be a concern for Irish Wolfhounds due to their sighthound nature. Barbiturates, like pentobarbital, are no longer commonly used in veterinary anesthesia, having been replaced by safer products such as Propofol.

Irish Wolfhounds generally require only half to two-thirds the calculated dose of injectable anesthetics for induction. This is because they tend to have less body fat, which can affect how anesthetics are removed from the bloodstream.

Sighthounds like Irish Wolfhounds can experience hyperthermia, a dangerously high body temperature, especially if they're nervous. This is just one of the idiosyncrasies that can increase the risk of anesthesia.

Hypothermia, a dangerously low body temperature, is also a concern in dogs with a lean body conformation, such as Irish Wolfhounds. This can be a risk during anesthesia, especially in sighthounds.

Prolonged recovery from some intravenous anesthetics is another risk factor for Irish Wolfhounds. Additionally, there's an increased risk of drug interactions, which can further complicate anesthesia.

Key Anesthetic Risks for Irish Wolfhounds:

Watch your Irish Wolfhound's diet carefully, as it's crucial for her happiness and health. Make sure she gets plenty of exercise every day to keep her active and energized.

Regular brushing of her teeth and coat is a must, as it helps prevent dental and skin problems. Brush her teeth daily to keep her mouth healthy.

Call a pet emergency hospital or your veterinarian immediately if you notice anything unusual, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. Pet emergencies can be serious, so don't hesitate to seek help.

Sign up for pet health insurance to cover medical costs that may arise throughout your Irish Wolfhound's life. This will give you peace of mind and financial security.

Having a well-stocked emergency kit can make all the difference in a crisis. A basic emergency kit should include a first aid manual, bandages, and antiseptic wipes.

You should also have a battery-powered radio and a flashlight with extra batteries. A whistle to signal for help is a good idea too.

In case of a natural disaster, it's essential to have a supply of non-perishable food and water. Aim for at least one gallon of water per person per day.

A small toolkit with a wrench, pliers, and screwdriver can help you make basic repairs. Don't forget a manual can opener if you have canned food in your emergency kit.

Remember to check your emergency kit regularly to ensure all items are still usable and not expired.

GDV, also known as bloat, is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. If you notice any of the following signs, seek medical care right away.

Dry heaving or a large, tight, painful abdomen are common indicators of GDV. These symptoms can be accompanied by a dull coat, hair loss, and a general reluctance to run or play.

In some cases, bloat can cause a dog to faint or collapse, making it essential to monitor your pet closely. If you notice any abnormal shaking, trembling, or excessive involuntary tremors, it's crucial to seek medical help.

Here are some common signs of GDV, organized by category:

If you suspect your dog is experiencing GDV, don't hesitate to seek medical attention. The sooner your pet receives treatment, the better their chances of recovery.

Irish Wolfhounds are prone to several serious health issues, some of which are genetic. Pneumonia is one of the conditions that can affect this breed, and it's essential to be aware of the symptoms to seek veterinary help promptly.

Irish Wolfhounds are also at risk of Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia, also known as Wolfhound Rhinitis, which can cause respiratory problems. Canine Epilepsy, a neurological disorder, is another condition that can affect Irish Wolfhounds.

Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, is common in this breed. Megaesophagus, a condition where the esophagus is enlarged, can also occur.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy, or PRA, is a degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness. Von Willebrand's disease, a bleeding disorder, and Wobbler's Syndrome, a neurological condition that affects the neck, can also affect Irish Wolfhounds.

In addition to these conditions, Irish Wolfhounds are also prone to Leaky Gut Syndrome, or intestinal permeability, and other linked immune-mediated or autoimmune diseases.

Some of the most common health concerns specific to Irish Wolfhounds include heart disease, which can be life-threatening if not detected early. Dilated Cardiomyopathy, Atrial Fibrillation, and Ventricular Premature Complexes or Contractions are all conditions that can affect the heart.

To prevent periodontal disease, it's essential to brush your Irish Wolfhound's teeth daily.

Here are some signs to watch for that could indicate serious disease:

Irish Wolfhounds require regular care and attention to stay happy and healthy. Brushing their coat at least weekly and their teeth at least twice a week can help keep them looking and feeling their best.

To keep your Wolfhound out of trouble, supervise them as you would a toddler, keeping doors closed and blocking off rooms as necessary. A fenced yard is also a must to prevent them from chasing after small animals.

A consistent and high-quality diet is essential for your Wolfhound's health. Feed them a diet appropriate for their age, and avoid giving them people food. Regular exercise is also crucial, but be sure not to overdo it at first.

By following these simple care and wellness tips, you can help your Irish Wolfhound live a long, happy, and healthy life.

Many sighthound breeds, including Irish Wolfhounds, Deerhounds, and Greyhounds, are at risk of delayed post-operative bleeding after surgery.

This type of bleeding can lead to death, often occurring one or more days after surgery.

The Scottish Deerhound Association Health & Genetics website and the Irish Wolfhound Club of America website both discuss post-operative bleeding in sighthounds.

Research from Ohio State University published in 2008 suggests that this issue may be unique to sighthound breeds.

The problem is not with the dog's ability to form blood clots, but rather with maintaining those clots for a normal length of time.

Some sighthounds with delayed post-operative bleeding had normal pre-surgical blood clotting function tests.

The National Greyhound Adoption Program uses a protocol that includes administering a specific drug, Amicar, to over 1000 Greyhounds annually.

This drug, Amicar, is crucial in preventing delayed post-operative bleeding in sighthounds.

It's essential to order Amicar several weeks before any elective surgery, as it's not typically kept in stock.

Providing a copy of the relevant article to your veterinarian, surgeon, and other medical professionals is highly recommended.

As we explore ways to prioritize care and wellness, it's essential to address the physical and emotional toll of stress. A consistent sleep schedule can help regulate the body's response to stress, with most adults needing 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining energy levels and focus. Drinking at least 8 cups (64 ounces) of water per day can make a significant difference.

Exercise is a natural stress-reliever, releasing endorphins that boost mood and reduce anxiety. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per day.

Mindfulness practices like meditation and deep breathing can help calm the mind and reduce stress. Even just 5-10 minutes of mindfulness practice per day can be beneficial.

A balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables provides essential nutrients for optimal health. Aim to include a variety of colors on your plate to ensure you're getting a broad range of vitamins and minerals.

Getting regular massages can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. Even a 30-minute massage can make a significant difference in reducing stress and improving mood.

Caring for Your Wolfhound at Home is a top priority, and it's easier than you think! Watch her diet and make sure she gets plenty of exercise to keep her happy and healthy.

You'll want to brush her coat at least weekly, and her teeth at least twice a week to keep them perfect. Cleaning her ears weekly, even as a puppy, is also a must. Don't worry, it's easy and we'll show you how!

Irish Wolfhounds are large dogs with lots of energy, so keep her mind and body active to prevent boredom. A strong chase instinct means she needs to be leash walked and have a fenced yard. Her beard can get messy while eating and drinking, so be sure to clean it regularly.

To keep your dog's diet consistent, avoid giving her people food and feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. Regular exercise is also crucial, but don't overdo it at first.

Here are some essential care tasks to add to your schedule:

Having your IW spayed or neutered is one of the best decisions you can make for their health and well-being.

Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers, which can be a significant health concern for your pet. By removing the ovaries and uterus in females and the testicles in males, you're eliminating the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies.

Performing this surgery also gives us a chance to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery helps us to identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk.

Tail damage is a common problem in the wolfhound breed, often resulting in a split tail that can be a nightmare to deal with.

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Typically, tail damage occurs when the hound swings the appendage too hard, severely bruising and even splitting the tail open.

A bleeding tail is a challenging area to keep bandaged, especially hard to heal thoroughly so that the affected portion does not open up again in another future incident.

Split tail injuries on a happy, excited wolfhound do not always heal without another incident taking place.

It can take as long as two to three weeks for the damaged tail to heal ONLY if properly cared for, and only if it does NOT receive further and ongoing damage.

If the location is repeatedly damaged, then the last resort is to amputate the portion of the affected tail.

Preventative Care is crucial in keeping your Irish Wolfhound healthy and happy. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly, to prevent matting and tangling.

Regular dental care is also essential. Brush her teeth at least twice a week to keep them perfect, as Irish Wolfhounds generally have good teeth. Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy, to prevent infections.

A consistent diet is vital for your Irish Wolfhound's health. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age, and avoid giving her people food. Keep her diet consistent, and don't overdo it with treats.

Exercise is also a must, but start slowly. Irish Wolfhounds are large dogs with lots of energy, so keep her mind and body active to prevent boredom. A fenced yard is a must, as she has a strong chase instinct and needs to be leash walked.

Here's a quick rundown of the preventative care tasks you should perform regularly: