Doggo fans, have you ever hung out with an Irish wolfhound? If not, it’s time to change things. This breed is absolutely huge — way bigger than most big dogs. Thanks to social media, we can all see what it’s like to live with an Irish wolfhound. I think I want one.
What’s in a name?
The Irish wolfhound gets its name because it originated in Ireland (obviously). But the ‘wolf’ in its name comes not from its size or color, but because this breed used to aid in wolf hunting.
The breed has a looong history.
Irish wolfhounds are basically as old as Ireland. There are records of these big doggos in Irish literature from the early medieval period onwards, and they’ve thrived to this day.
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They can be a fearsome sight.
If you’re not familiar with them, these big dogs can look pretty imposing. This isn’t too surprising, as historical records indicate they were used as war dogs back in the day.
This helps lessen the intimidation factor.
Yes, they grow up to be absolutely huge, yes, they’re war dogs…but seeing one as a little puppy helps put things into perspective. Just look at this pupper’s adorable little face!
Look how tall it is!
Adult Irish wolfhounds often stand 34-35 inches (nearly three feet!) tall at the shoulders. When they sit like this, they’re easily four to five feet tall and can dwarf some people.
Yes, it’s an absolute unit.
This one is captioned “wolfhound with two subwoofers”. I don’t know what breeds the smaller dogs are, but they may as well be German shepherds for how big most wolfhounds are.
The perfect place to nap.
With their thick, woolly coats, friendly disposition and massive size, the flank of an Irish wolfhound makes for the perfect place for a sleepy kitten to curl up for a catnap.
They work well with babies, too.
I think this dog will grow less enamored with this when the kid grows bigger, but for now it serves as the perfect pedestal to help this little guy see the world.
Even when they’re young, they’re huge.
This doggo is only 18 months old — not far out of its puppy years — and already weighs nearly 200 pounds! That’s crazy considering most domestic dogs are at least liftable.
It’s like a living body pillow.
Judging from the pics online, Irish wolfhounds make great snuggle buddies. The only thing is that, with their size, you’ll need a big couch or bed to properly accommodate them.
They dwarf other dogs.
The little runt-like dog on the left is actually a mastiff, which, if you’re keeping score at home, is a big dog. It’s just that the Irish wolfhounds in the pic are that much bigger.
They like to stay in touch with their wild roots.
While they’re thoroughly domesticated and a great companion for humans, a quick trip to the dog park can reveal their wild side, which is also apparently their derpy side.
Another way to see scale.
It isn’t as noteworthy as the pics that show an Irish wolfhound with a baby, kitten or other dog for scale, but this confirms that these doggos are, in fact, bigger than a banana.
I want one!
True, there are lots of pets that fit better on a lap. But Irish wolfhounds are sweet, snuggly, adorably huge and can still fit on a lap (kinda, anyway).
