Irish Wolfhound vs Great Dane: Giant Breed Comparison

The Irish Wolfhound and Great Dane have fascinating histories as giant breeds. Both dogs have ancient roots, but their purposes were quite different. Let’s take a look at the differences and similarities between these two dog breeds.

History of These Breeds

Irish Wolfhounds originated in Ireland over 2000 years ago. They were used to hunt wolves and large game. These massive sighthounds nearly went extinct in the 1800s when wolves disappeared from Ireland.

Great Danes have their origins in Germany, not Denmark as their name suggests. They were developed by German nobility to hunt wild boar. Their size and strength made them ideal for taking down large prey.

Both breeds transitioned from hunting dogs to companions over time. You’ll find they share some traits:

Giant size
Gentle nature
Noble appearance

Irish Wolfhounds remain true to their sighthound roots. They’re known for their keen eyesight and love of chasing moving objects. Great Danes evolved from mastiff-type dogs. This gives them a more muscular build compared to the leaner Wolfhound.

Today, both breeds are beloved family pets. Their hunting instincts have softened, but you may still see glimpses of their working dog past in their behaviors.

Physical Characteristics

Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes are both massive dogs with distinct physical traits. These gentle giants have unique builds and appearances that set them apart from other large breeds.

Size Comparison

Irish Wolfhounds are typically taller than Great Danes. You’ll find Irish Wolfhounds standing at 28 to 34 inches tall. Great Danes reach heights of 28 to 32 inches.
When it comes to weight, Great Danes are often heavier. They can weigh between 110 to 175 pounds. Irish Wolfhounds range from 105 to 180 pounds.
Both breeds are considered giant dogs. Their imposing size makes them stand out in any crowd.

Appearance

Irish Wolfhounds have a distinctive wiry coat. Their fur is rough and shaggy, giving them a rugged look. You’ll notice their long legs and lean, muscular build.
Great Danes sport a short, smooth coat. Their body is more muscular and compact compared to Irish Wolfhounds. You’ll see their broad chest and powerful shoulders.
Both breeds have long tails and large, floppy ears. Irish Wolfhounds often have bushy eyebrows and a beard. Great Danes have a more sleek appearance with their short fur.

Temperament and Personality

Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds are known for their gentle natures and friendly personalities. These giant breeds make excellent companions, but they have some key differences in their temperaments.

Nature and Behavior

Great Danes are loyal and kind with happy personalities. They love being near their people and often try to be lap dogs despite their size. You’ll find them calm and patient, making them great for families.
Irish Wolfhounds are more independent. They have a laid-back nature but can be stubborn at times. These dogs are gentle giants with a sweet disposition.
Both breeds are friendly with strangers, but Great Danes may be more outgoing. Irish Wolfhounds tend to be reserved at first.

Family Companionship

Great Danes are ideal family pets. Their gentle nature makes them good with children. They love to be involved in family activities and crave attention from their owners.
Irish Wolfhounds can be great family dogs too, but they need more space.
Both breeds are loving and protective of their families. Great Danes are more likely to cuddle, while Irish Wolfhounds are content being near you without needing constant physical contact.

Health and Life Expectancy

Both Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes face health challenges due to their large size. These gentle giants have shorter lifespans compared to smaller dog breeds.

Common Health Issues

Hip dysplasia is a concern for both breeds. This condition can cause pain and mobility issues. Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds may also suffer from elbow dysplasia.
Bloat is another serious health risk. It’s a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. You need to watch for signs of bloat in both breeds.
Heart problems are common in Great Danes. They can develop dilated cardiomyopathy. Irish Wolfhounds may face issues like atrial fibrillation.
Both breeds can experience bone cancer. This aggressive disease often affects large dog breeds.

Life Expectancy Comparison

Great Danes typically live 7-10 years.
Irish Wolfhounds have a shorter life expectancy of 6-8 years.
You can help extend your dog’s life with proper care.

Training and Socialization

Both Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes need proper training and socialization. These gentle giants have unique needs due to their size and temperament. Let’s look at effective techniques and why starting early matters.

Training Techniques

Training Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes requires patience and consistency. Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. Reward them with treats and praise when they follow commands.

Keep training sessions short. These large breeds can get tired quickly. Focus on basic obedience commands like sit, stay, and come.
Crate training is helpful for both breeds. It gives them a safe space and aids in housebreaking. Choose a crate big enough for your dog to stand and turn around in.
Be firm but gentle. Both breeds are sensitive and respond poorly to harsh methods. Use a calm, confident tone when giving commands.

Importance of Early Socialization

Start socializing your Irish Wolfhound or Great Dane as early as possible. Expose them to different people, animals, and environments. This helps prevent fear and aggression later on.
Take your puppy to puppy classes. These provide a safe space to meet other dogs and people. They also teach basic obedience skills.
Introduce your dog to various sights, sounds, and textures. This builds confidence and reduces anxiety in new situations.
Be careful with smaller animals. Both breeds have a high prey drive, especially Irish Wolfhounds. Supervise interactions with cats or small dogs.

Exercise and Activity Needs

Both Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes are large dog breeds with moderate exercise needs. They don’t require intense workouts but do need regular activity to stay healthy.

Irish Wolfhounds need about 40 minutes of daily exercise. A good walk or jog can satisfy their activity requirements. Great Danes have similar needs, usually content with a daily walk.
Despite their size, these breeds have medium energy levels. They’re not hyperactive but do enjoy playtime and outdoor activities.
Both breeds are strong, but Irish Wolfhounds are slightly more athletic. They can reach top speeds of 35 MPH, while Great Danes can run up to 30 MPH.
Remember to adjust exercise as your dog ages. Older giants may need shorter, gentler activities to protect their joints.
Mental stimulation is also important. Puzzle toys and training sessions can help keep their minds active without overexerting their bodies.
Always monitor your giant breed during exercise. They can overheat quickly due to their size. Provide plenty of water and rest breaks during activities.

Bottom Line

Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes both make wonderful companions with distinct personalities and care needs. If you’re interested in bringing one of these lovable breeds into your home, it’s essential to find a reputable breeder to ensure a healthy start. Trusted sources connect you with breeders who prioritize health and socialization, making it easier to find a happy, well-adjusted puppy. PuppySpot, for example, offers a $250 discount and matches you with carefully vetted breeders, helping you welcome the perfect Irish Wolfhound or Great Dane into your family with confidence.