Irish Heart WolfhoundsThe wolfhound…what can I tell you in just a few words to explain both their superiority and nobility. The Irish Wolfhound is a breed above all other breeds. Only the Irish Wolfhound is acknowledged as the “National Dog of Ireland,” despite that many dogs are native to Irish soils and history. There are scores of reasons for such accolades.
Their lengthy history goes back to pre-Christian times. Laws forbade anyone other than those of royalty to own an Irish Wolfhound. The hounds were sent as gifts from Ireland to many European kings and queens such as to Spain, England and Portugal; given as offerings to some of the Caesars; trained to accompany their masters on hunts and to follow knights into battle during the Renaissance wars–protecting them from frontal and rear enemy attacks. Their history should be read in detail to fully comprehend the great heritage of the ancient dogs.
An Icelandic Saga of Nial is quoted as saying:
I will give thee a dog which I got in Ireland. He is huge of limb, and for a follower equal to an able man. Moreover, he hath a man’s wit and will bark at thine enemies but never at thy friends. And he will see by each man’s face whether he be ill or well disposed to thee. And he will lay down his life for thee.
Despite the difficult and bountiful experiences of the breed, the Irish Wolfhound retains its lofty and noble magnetism with elegance and grace, knowing its pre-eminence and regal status of earlier times. The superlatives linked to its character, intelligence, and steadfastness encompass a host of descriptive attributes. The wolfhound is the tallest and largest galloping hound in the world today–strong and graceful–tall but not bulky. It maintains a successful balance of speed and power while earning the reputation as a “gentle giant,” living as treasured companions and beloved member of its family. Having a laid-back temperament, a wolfhound is friendly, gentle, and good with children and other pets.
If you think the Irish Wolfhound is for you and your family–complete your homework, research all sites, visit kennels, attend dog shows, and talk to other wolfhound owners. All of these pursuits will enlighten you to the fact that the Irish Wolfhound is not “just a dog,” it is an IRISH WOLFHOUND. For comparison, enjoy the following description:
JUST A DOG
From time to time, people tell me, “lighten up, it’s just a
dog,” or, “that’s a lot of money for just a dog.” They don’t
understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs
involved for “just a dog.”
Some of my proudest moments have come about with
“just a dog.” Many hours have passed and my only
company was “just a dog,” but I did not once feel slighted.
Some of my saddest moments have been brought about
by “just a dog,” and in those days of darkness,
the gentle touch of “just a dog” gave me comfort
and reason to overcome the day.
If you, too, think it’s “just a dog,” then you will probably
won’t understand phrases like “just a friend,” “just a sunrise,”
or “just a promise.”
“Just a dog” brings into my life the very essence of
friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy.
“Just a dog” brings out the compassion and patience
that makes me a better person.
Because of “just a dog”, I will rise early, take
long walks and look longingly to the future. So for me
and folks like me, it’s not “just a dog” but an embodiment
of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond
memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment.
“Just a dog” brings out what’s good in me and diverts my
thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.
I hope that someday they can understand that it’s
not “just a dog”, but the thing that gives me humanity and
keeps me from being “just a man or woman.”
So the next time you hear the phrase “just a dog”,
just smile — because they “just don’t understand.”
– Author Unknown
Also, let me share a few true Irish Wolfhound stories that attest to the greatness of this breed. Select the tab “Stories” at the top of the website to review some of them.
If, after considering these stories and the characteristics of the breed, you still think the wolfhound is “just a dog”, please do not apply for one of my pups. However, if their Irish hearts have touched you, give me a call or send an email.
Thanks again for visiting, and come back often.
Arlene Collins
Irish Heart Wolfhounds