Irish Wolfhound Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is one of the tallest dog breeds, a gentle giant bred in Ireland to hunt wolves and course large game, and long a symbol of Irish heritage. Despite its imposing height and rough, wiry coat, it is famously calm, dignified, and sweet-natured, forming deep, quiet bonds with its family. The old saying 'gentle when stroked, fierce when provoked' captures its serene temperament and latent courage. Its enormous size brings a tragically short lifespan and significant costs in food, space, and veterinary care. It suits owners who can offer room, moderate exercise, soft bedding, and devoted companionship for its brief but rewarding life.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
0 active listings
No Irish Wolfhound puppies right now
Check back soon, or browse other available breeds.
Browse all puppiesWhere this breed shines
- Remarkably calm, gentle, and dignified temperament
- Good with children and other dogs; quiet indoors
- Majestic companion with deep loyalty to family
Things to consider
- Very short lifespan and prone to serious size-related health issues
- High costs for food, space, medication, and veterinary care
- Needs careful, slow growth as a puppy and soft bedding to protect joints
History
Giant Irish hounds are recorded from antiquity and were prized for hunting wolves and elk and as prestigious gifts among nobility. By the 19th century they had nearly vanished as wolves were eradicated, until Captain George Augustus Graham reconstructed the breed using surviving specimens crossed with Deerhounds and other breeds. The AKC recognized the Irish Wolfhound in 1897.
Temperament
Irish Wolfhounds are calm, patient, and affectionate, generally gentle with children and other dogs and too easygoing to make good guard dogs. They are sensitive and thrive on family companionship, disliking isolation. Though placid indoors, they need moderate exercise and grow quickly, requiring careful management as puppies.
Questions to ask a Irish Wolfhound breeder
- Have the parents had cardiac screening for dilated cardiomyopathy?
- What is the longevity and health history in the line, including cancer and bloat?
- Have hips and eyes been evaluated, and how is puppy growth managed?
Health considerations to discuss
Dilated cardiomyopathy. A leading cause of death; ask about regular cardiac screening.
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat). Deep-chested giants are high risk; discuss prevention and gastropexy.
Bone cancer (osteosarcoma). Elevated in giant breeds; ask about family history.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club · The Kennel Club (UK) — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Irish Wolfhound litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Irish Wolfhound puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Irish Wolfhound listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Irish Wolfhound breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.