Chow Chow vs Irish Wolfhound
Non-Sporting · Medium vs Hound · Giant
Chow ChowMedium
A dignified, bright, serious-minded ancient Chinese breed with a famous purple-blue tongue.
Weight: 45–70 lbsLifespan: 8–12 years
Irish WolfhoundGiant
A courageous, dignified, calm gentle giant — the tallest of all dogs, ancient Celtic war and hunting hound.
Weight: 120 lbsLifespan: 6–8 years
Quick take
- • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 45–70 lbs for the Chow Chow.
- • The Chow Chow typically lives longer (8–12 years).
- • The Irish Wolfhound has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Irish Wolfhound is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Chow Chow | Irish Wolfhound |
|---|---|---|
Group | Non-Sporting | Hound |
Size | Medium | Giant |
Origin | China | Ireland |
Height (male) | 17–20" | 32–34" |
Height (female) | 17–20" | 30–32" |
Weight (male) | 45–70 lbs | 120 lbs |
Weight (female) | 45–70 lbs | 105 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 8–12 years | 6–8 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Good with kids | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Low (2/5) | 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 | long | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a dignified, bright, serious-minded ancient Chinese breed with a famous purple-blue tongue. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–70 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as dignified, bright, serious-minded.
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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Chow Chow health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Skin issues
- • Bloat
Irish Wolfhound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Bone cancer
- • Heart disease
- • Bloat
- • Hip dysplasia