Chihuahua vs Irish Wolfhound

Toy · Toy vs Hound · Giant

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 6 lbs for the Chihuahua.
  • The Chihuahua typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Chihuahua has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Chihuahua sheds less.
  • The Irish Wolfhound is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitChihuahuaIrish Wolfhound
Group
ToyHound
Size
ToyGiant
Origin
MexicoIreland
Height (male)
5–8"32–34"
Height (female)
5–8"30–32"
Weight (male)
6 lbs120 lbs
Weight (female)
6 lbs105 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–16 years6–8 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
Low (2/5)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.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a graceful, charming, sassy tiny dog of Mexican origin — the world's smallest breed, big in personality. Originally from Mexico, this toy toy breed typically weighs 6 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, charming, sassy.

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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Chihuahua health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Heart disease
  • Dental issues

Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia