Bouvier des Flandres vs Irish Wolfhound

Herding · Large vs Hound · Giant

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 70–110 lbs for the Bouvier des Flandres.
  • The Bouvier des Flandres typically lives longer (10–12 years).
  • The Bouvier des Flandres has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Bouvier des Flandres sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBouvier des FlandresIrish Wolfhound
Group
HerdingHound
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
BelgiumIreland
Height (male)
24.5–27.5"32–34"
Height (female)
23.5–26.5"30–32"
Weight (male)
70–110 lbs120 lbs
Weight (female)
70–110 lbs105 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years6–8 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)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
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres is a courageous, strong-willed, devoted Belgian cattle drover — bearded farm guardian and WWI ambulance dog. Originally from Belgium, this large herding breed typically weighs 70–110 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, strong-willed, devoted.

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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Bouvier des Flandres health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat

Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia