The Complete Guide to Irish Wolfhound Lifespan and Dog Care

The Irish Wolfhound is a majestic breed with a rich history and a unique set of needs.

They typically live for 6-10 years due to their large size and potential health issues.

As one of the tallest dog breeds, they require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.

Irish Wolfhounds are prone to bloat, so it's essential to feed them multiple small meals throughout the day.

Irish Wolfhounds are known for their gentle and calm temperament, which makes them a great fit for families with children.

They are naturally wary of strangers, so early socialization is crucial to ensure they grow into confident and friendly adults.

Their size can be intimidating, but Irish Wolfhounds are generally quiet and laid-back dogs that don't require a lot of exercise.

Irish wolfhounds are prone to certain health issues that can affect their lifespan.

Osteosarcoma is a common bone cancer that can cause malignant tumors to form in their legs, leading to limping and weight-bearing difficulties.

Gastric bloat can be fatal if left untreated, often linked to stress or eating habits.

Obesity is a significant concern for Irish wolfhounds, as it can lead to joint problems, metabolic disorders, and other severe health issues.

Dental disease can cause inflammation of the gums and affect the roots of their teeth, potentially leading to loose teeth and organ damage if left untreated.

Irish Wolfhounds are at risk of certain conditions including:

Irish wolfhounds can live up to 6-8 years with proper care and attention to these potential health issues.

Owning an Irish Wolfhound can be a significant investment, with costs adding up quickly. You can expect to pay at least £105 per month after purchase and set-up costs.

Irish Wolfhounds have a long lifespan of over 10 years, but their health needs should not be underestimated. Over £17,000 is the estimated lifetime cost of owning an Irish Wolfhound.

To ensure you bring home a healthy puppy or adult dog, research reputable breeders who follow the Irish Wolfhound Club of America's standard for ethical conduct.

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Don't buy a puppy from a pet store - you're more likely to get an unhealthy, unsocialized, and difficult-to-housetrain pup.

Choose a breeder who's committed to ethical conduct, specifically one that follows the Irish Wolfhound Club of America's standard for responsible breeding practices.

Consider adopting an adult dog from a shelter or rescue group. Many health problems aren't apparent in puppyhood, so by adopting an adult, you can rule out most issues.

Take your new pup to the vet soon after adoption - they'll spot visible problems and help set up a preventive regimen to avoid many health issues.

Make sure you have a good contract with the seller or rescue group that spells out responsibilities on both sides.

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If you're considering rehoming an Irish Wolfhound, there are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find one.

Breed-specific rescues that specialise in Irish Wolfhounds also exist and can be a good option to consider.

You'll need to ask any rescue centre about the dog's history to make sure they will be comfortable in your home.

Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems.

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Caring for an Irish wolfhound requires some serious work upfront. You'll need to schedule vaccinations and puppy-proof your home.

Teething is a real thing with these puppies - they can chew through just about anything. Be prepared to invest in some tough toys and furniture covers.

No one likes to think about their dog getting lost, but it's better to be safe than sorry - that's why FidoAlert provides a free ID and tag for your furry friend.

Irish Wolfhounds need a large, secure garden for them to stretch out and get some exercise.

They thrive off company and can become destructive if left alone, so make sure they're not isolated for too long.

You'll need to give your Irish Wolfhound at least two hours of exercise every day, spread across the day rather than in one go.

Avoid extreme dog sports that put pressure on their joints, but a nice walk with plenty of sniffing time is perfect.

Keep playtime outdoors as an excited Wolfhound might accidentally knock over valuables.

Your Irish Wolfhound's thick coat requires regular grooming to remove debris and prevent matting.

Use an undercoat rake and pin brush to gently work out tangles and loose hair. Brushing around twice a week should be enough to keep their coat in good condition, especially during shedding season.

Irish Wolfhounds shed minimally throughout the year compared to other breeds, but they may shed more in spring and autumn.

Trim your dog's nails every four to eight weeks to prevent cracking.

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As you care for your Irish Wolfhound, it's essential to consider their diet and nutrition. An adult wolfhound may eat an average of four to eight cups of dry food per day.

Puppies require a specific diet formulated for their growth and development, and they should be fed 3-4 times a day until six months old.

As your puppy grows into adulthood, you'll need to adjust their feeding schedule accordingly. At around 18 months, Irish Wolfhounds should be gradually introduced to a high-quality adult dog food suitable for their size, age, and activity level.

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Keep in mind that as your wolfhound ages, it may require less food than when it was a puppy. Regular meals throughout the day are beneficial for puppies, but you can reduce this to twice daily as they mature.

A balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for the health and well-being of Irish Wolfhounds. Obesity can lead to joint pain and other health problems, so be sure to keep an eye on your dog's weight as it gets older.

Irish Wolfhounds are prone to hereditary conditions that can be expensive to treat, so it's essential to consider pet insurance.

Pet insurance for Irish Wolfhounds costs more than for mixed breed dogs because of their susceptibility to costly health issues.

The best time to get pet insurance is when your Irish Wolfhound is a healthy puppy, as you can't predict the future and insurance becomes harder to obtain later on.

Ongoing costs include food, preventive healthcare, vet bills or insurance, and accessories like poo bags, toys, and grooming supplies.

Preventive healthcare is crucial for catching problems early and preventing illnesses from arising in the first place.

Getting an Irish Wolfhound requires research and patience.

They need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy, despite appearing lazy at home.

Before buying a puppy from a breeder, ensure it's well-socialized with all necessary screening tests, health checks, and vaccinations.

Irish Wolfhound puppies from breeders must receive proper early socialization to thrive; ask the breeder about their approach.

Look for a Kennel Club Assured breeder who meets higher standards to guarantee a healthy puppy.