Belgian Tervuren vs Irish Wolfhound

Herding · Large vs Hound · Giant

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 55–75 lbs for the Belgian Tervuren.
  • The Belgian Tervuren typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Belgian Tervuren has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Irish Wolfhound sheds less.
  • The Belgian Tervuren is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBelgian TervurenIrish Wolfhound
Group
HerdingHound
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
BelgiumIreland
Height (male)
24–26"32–34"
Height (female)
22–24"30–32"
Weight (male)
55–75 lbs120 lbs
Weight (female)
45–60 lbs105 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years6–8 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Belgian Tervuren

The Belgian Tervuren is a courageous, smart, alert Belgian shepherd — long-haired cousin of the Malinois with rich mahogany coat. Originally from Belgium, this large herding breed typically weighs 55–75 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, smart, alert.

About the Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is a courageous, dignified, calm gentle giant — the tallest of all dogs, ancient Celtic war and hunting hound. Originally from Ireland, this giant hound breed typically weighs 120 lbs and lives 6–8 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, calm.

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Belgian Tervuren health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye disorders

Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia