Have you ever heard of a dog breed that can stand as tall as a pony? Well, you’re about to meet one. Say hello to the Irish Wolfhound, the tall, gallant and noble-hearted breed from Ireland. You may not be aware that this breed is potentially as tall as a person when it stands on its hind legs! This dog, with its long legs and seemingly solemn face, can’t help but draw everyone’s eyes.
This conversation leads us to an intriguing question: Can an Irish Wolfhound be a reliable guard dog? This hound’s height alone may make it seem like a relentless defender. But honestly, the answer isn’t clear-cut.
Before we delve into the guard dog territory, let’s take a moment to explore the origin of the Irish Wolfhound. They are an ancient breed, with their roots tracing back to 7000 B.C. Irish Wolfhounds were bred to be hunting dogs, particularly for wolves, after which they get their name. These hounds were reputed for their bravery, agility, and intelligence.
However, their impressive height and heavyweight might give an impression that they are fierce and dangerous. But in reality, this gentle giant is exactly that – gentle. Irish Wolfhounds are calm, sweet-natured, and loving, making them great companions, acting as serene household pets, especially for families with kids.
Despite their gentle demeanor, one can’t help wondering about their potential capabilities as guard dogs due to their size. Before we can answer that, it helps to understand what traits make a good guard dog. Size, while certainly important, isn’t the only factor that determines a good guard dog. Instinct, courage, sensitivity to sound, and loyalty are also critical considerations. A good guard dog also needs training to properly perform their protection duties.
Now, where does the Irish Wolfhound stand on these factors? Well, when it comes to size and noticing strangers due to their sharp senses, they pass with flying colors. However, there’s quite the plot twist here. Despite being naturally alert and having a strong instinct to protect, their gentle spirit overpowers their defensive abilities, making them more likely to greet the stranger with a wagging tail rather than a threatening growl.
So yes, while an Irish Wolfhound may be a formidable sight on your property and might even deter the average burglary based on dimensions alone, they are perhaps too open-hearted to be reliable guard dogs.
Nonetheless, these dogs make wonderful pets due to their inherent kindness and loyalty. They are extremely friendly and attach themselves deeply to their families. Because of these traits, they are known to be wonderful with children, other pets, and even strangers, which may not make them superior guard dogs but exceptional companion dogs instead.
Now, if you’re still keen on having an Irish Wolfhound as a guard dog, specific training methods can help. Enrolling them in guard dog training sessions from a young age will assist in honing their inherent protective instincts. But remember, moderation is key. We still want to maintain the loving and gentle nature these regal big teddies are known for!
In essence, while an Irish Wolfhound can be a somewhat intimidating presence due to their height, they may not be your first choice as guard dogs. However, their gentle souls, coupled with their massive size, make them marvelous, loving family pets.
After all, this breed didn’t survive all these centuries by being aggressive. They’re a testament to how one can have strength without resorting to violence, and that’s something worthy of admiration. These gentle giants embody the balance of being soft yet strong. So while they may not be the best fit for traditional guard dog duties, they can serve as a loving protector within your family.
To end on a lighter note, think about this: If you were to train your Irish wolfhound to be a proper guard dog, would the robber be more afraid of them or terrified because they thought there was a pony inside your house?
So, in case you are in the market for a sweet, loving, dog, maybe even pony-sized, that will treat your family with kindness and respect, the Irish wolfhound fits the bill perfectly! But if you’re specifically looking for a guard dog, you might be better off considering another breed, like a German Shepherd or a Doberman Pinscher, which are bred and known for their guard dog instincts.
In conclusion, although every dog is unique and training can impact their behaviors, the sweet and gentle nature of an Irish Wolfhound leans more towards them being a giant, furry friend than a regimented guard dog. Your ‘wolfhound turned pony’ might just surprise you by blossoming into the most endearing and loyal companion that your family could wish for!
