Imagine a breed of dog so large, it can look a small horse straight in the eye. This majestic giant, with a muscled body draped in a thick, rough coat and piercing, intelligent eyes, could be YOUR furry best friend. But, don’t let their intimidating stature fool you. Known for their heart of gold and propensity for soppy-doggy kisses, we are talking about none other than the Irish Wolfhound.
It’s said that an Irish Wolfhound enjoys two pastimes — going on a leisurely stroll through the park and snoozing on a large, fluffy dog bed, preferably one that belongs to their human. Need to paint a clearer picture? Let’s just say that an Irish Wolfhound is part-horse, part-cat, and all parts loveable dog.
Now, that we’ve covered how doting and nonchalant this furry giant is, you might be wondering, “Is the Irish Wolfhound a healthy dog?” And, that’s precisely what we are about to delve into.
First off, their sizable appearance does impact their health. Standing as tall as 32 inches (for males) and weighing up to 120 pounds, the Irish Wolfhound is one of the largest dog breeds in the world. Compared to their smaller counterparts, it’s true that they’re predisposed to some unique health challenges. A study by the Irish Wolfhound Foundation revealed that the primary causes of death among Irish Wolfhounds were heart disease, bone cancer, and complications from gastric torsion (a condition that typically belongs to the “big dogs’ club”).
Certainly, these revelations might sound daunting, but they are not meant to deter aspiring dog parents. Instead, they are precautions that potential Wolfhound owners need to be aware of to ensure their pets’ longevity and health. It’s vital to remember that the outcome of any dog’s health, big or small, depends primarily on genetics, diet, environment, and appropriate care.
So, let’s figure out how we can keep these gentle giants hale and hearty.
An important factor in your Wolfhound’s health is routine health screens to detect any early signs of potential problems. Regular vet visits would help monitor your pet’s cardiac health and their overall condition. Additionally, ample exercise can lower the risk of heart disease, the rambunctious chasing of a tennis ball could also do so by keeping the weight gain in check, another contributing factor to heart disease.
Next up on the list is their diet. What goes into their food bowl directly contributes to their health. Providing them with a balanced diet can prevent excessive weight gain. Furthermore, feeding them smaller meals throughout the day rather than one large meal can mitigate the risk of gastric torsion.
Moreover, consistent mental and physical stimulation can prevent destructive behaviors borne out of boredom and anxiety. A bored wolfhound may resort to digging or chewing, which could potentially lead to accidental ingestion of harmful substances.
Additionally, their massive size does make them more prone to joint issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia. Therefore, exercises that are gentle on their joints, such as swimming or a gentle game of fetch, can help keep these problems at bay. Plus, ensuring they have a comfortable bed to rest their large bodies can significantly reduce the strain on their joints.
Finally, even though their health concerns may seem momentous due to their giant stature, they’re generally in line with many other dog breeds. On average, these novellas of boundless love and affection will bless your family with their company for 6 to 8 years.
In conclusion, as with any dog breed, the key to a healthy and happy life for an Irish Wolfhound lies in informed and responsible dog parenting. We also recommend purchasing your pet from a reputable breeder, as they prioritize breeding healthier dogs over profits. Chances are, if you’re reading this article, you already have the spark of responsible dog parenting in you, and we commend you for it.
Just remember, these gargantuan furballs have an even giant heart that beats with love and loyalty for their owner. So, with the right care and ample affections, you’re sure to have a loyal companion who’ll bring joy and warmth to your family. After all, where do you think the “gentle when stroked, fierce when provoked” motto comes from? Dutch court poet, Jacob Cats (1577–1660)? No, the motto is a reference to the phenomenal Irish Wolfhounds who continue to live by it even today!
