Here’s a surprising fact that might leave you amazed. Did you know that despite their enormous sizes, Irish Wolfhounds are considered one of the gentlest dog breeds in the world? Weighing around 120 – 180 pounds, yes you heard that right, these dogs are majestic, gentle and sometimes regarded as giant teddy bears.
But, you know what’s even more fascinating? They have a stomach as big as their size. They love to eat! And they are not fussy eaters either. But, of course, it’s up to you, as a responsible dog parent, to make sure that their diet is healthy and as loveable as they are.
Now you might be wondering, what foods does an Irish Wolfhound love? Let’s delve into this, but remember, while they might love certain foods, they might not always be the best for them.
Like any other breed, Irish Wolfhounds need a balanced diet with a good mix of proteins, carbs, fats, minerals, and vitamins. However, because of their massive size, they have a few unique dietary requirements that need to be kept in mind.
Protein is a must in an Irish Wolfhound’s diet because it helps maintain their muscular body. Some protein-rich foods that these gentle giants enjoy include chicken, beef, turkey, and fish. Secondary proteins like eggs and cottage cheese are also often welcomed.
Then come carbohydrates. Surprised? You shouldn’t be! While quirky carbs like cakes and cookies are a no-go, complex carbs such as rice, sweet potato or regular potatoes are needed for the energy boost required by these dogs.
Let’s have a moment of surprise here. Did you ever think that this mammoth breed of dogs who were once used to hunt wolves would enjoy fruits and vegetables? Not all of it, though. But certain fruits and vegetables, like apples, bananas, carrots, and green peas, are not only relished by Irish Wolfhounds, they’re extremely beneficial for their health too.
Now, here’s a word of caution: a significant aspect about Irish Wolfhounds is their risk of bloat, a life-threatening condition common among large breeds. To mitigate this risk, it’s advisable to avoid feeding your Irish Wolfhound just before or after exercise and to not let them eat too rapidly.
Another vital point to remember is that Irish Wolfhounds puppies and full-grown dogs have different dietary needs. Puppies should never have too much calcium as it increases the risk of osteochondrosis, a painful bone condition. So stick to foods specifically designed for giant breed puppies until they’re at least a year old and then gradually shift them to adult dog food.
All in all, Irish Wolfhounds are big foodies. They do have their favorites and with a balanced, nutritious diet, they can lead healthy, happy lives. But, just like us, variety is the spice of life for them too. They might be giants, but they get bored easily. So, surprise them with different types of healthy treats.
Feeding your Irish Wolfhound should be less about what they ‘love’ and more about what is going to give them a rich, fulfilling life. Remember, what they need is your love and the right kind of food, not necessarily what they ‘love’. However, knowing their likes and dislikes will certainly make mealtime more enjoyable for both of you. And who doesn’t want a happy and healthy pet?
So there you have it. Now you know what an Irish Wolfhound might enjoy nibbling on. So go ahead, make your meal plan, mix in your love with it and create some drool-worthy meals for your gentle giant. Your Irish Wolfhound will love you even more for it!
