Great Dane vs Irish Wolfhound

Working · Giant vs Hound · Giant

Quick take
  • Great Dane is the larger breed at 140–175 lbs (males) vs 120 lbs for the Irish Wolfhound.
  • The Great Dane typically lives longer (7–10 years).

Side-by-side traits

TraitGreat DaneIrish Wolfhound
Group
WorkingHound
Size
GiantGiant
Origin
GermanyIreland
Height (male)
30–32"32–34"
Height (female)
28–30"30–32"
Weight (male)
140–175 lbs120 lbs
Weight (female)
110–140 lbs105 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–10 years6–8 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)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
shortwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Great Dane

The Great Dane is a friendly, patient, dependable giant — the 'Apollo of dogs' is sweet-natured despite imposing size. Originally from Germany, this giant working breed typically weighs 140–175 lbs and lives 7–10 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, patient, dependable.

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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Great Dane health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer

Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia