Irish Heart Wolfhounds

The first authentic record of these noble dogs was made in 391 A.D. when Roman Consul Quintus Aurellius mentioned them in a letter. He received a gift of seven Irish Wolfhounds and wrote that “all Rome viewed them with wonder.” Early literature of Greece, Rome and Ireland shows the breed was held in great esteem and valued as hunting dogs and gifts for royalty. Only individuals of noble birth could own an Irish Wolfhound.

In 1596, the Spanish poet Lope e Vega wrote a sonnet on the Irish Wolfhound. Many other references such as “Irish Dogs,” “big dogs of Ireland,” “Greyhounds of Ireland,” and “Wolf dogs of Ireland” have been found in literature.

Once a prominent figure in feudal life of the Middle Ages, the breed is believed to be directly descended from the “cu,” a large rough-coated Greyhound that was known in Ireland from pre-Christian times. As the national dog of Ireland, the breed was used by the Irish kings to hunt large Irish Elk, wolves, and coyotes. The breed history and influence follows Celtic history throughout Europe.

The Irish Wolfhound is a gentle dog who protects family, and is extremely fond of the elderly and children alike. This graceful and powerful breed is an athletic sight hound that seems to gallop naturally. This courageous and loyal dog is intelligent, very sensitive, and needs a great deal of human companionship. The wolfhound is a dignified and quiet-mannered house pet, and is non-aggressive despite its size. It excels in lure coursing, obedience, and rescue, although still used in the hunt.

In 1897 the breed would have become extinct except for the efforts in of Captain G. A. Graham, a Scot officer in the British Army. He worked for 20 years to save the breed. The Irish Wolfhound was admitted to registry in 1897 and, under Captain Graham’s supervision, the first breed standard was established.

Consult the American Kennel Club or the Irish Wolfhound Club of America for more information about their personalities, traits, and quirks. But know in your heart of hearts the Irish Wolfhound epitomizes, more than any other breed, what a canine companion should be. If you are fortunate enough to have one in your life, you are indeed blessed.