Greyhound vs Irish Wolfhound

Hound · Large vs Hound · Giant

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 65–70 lbs for the Greyhound.
  • The Greyhound typically lives longer (10–13 years).
  • The Greyhound sheds less.
  • The Irish Wolfhound is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitGreyhoundIrish Wolfhound
Group
HoundHound
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
EgyptIreland
Height (male)
28–30"32–34"
Height (female)
27–28"30–32"
Weight (male)
65–70 lbs120 lbs
Weight (female)
60–65 lbs105 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–13 years6–8 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)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.
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.
Very Low (1/5)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
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.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Greyhound

The Greyhound is a gentle, independent, noble sighthound — the fastest dog (45 mph) and biggest couch potato off-track. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 65–70 lbs and lives 10–13 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, independent, noble.

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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Greyhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Bone cancer
  • Anesthesia sensitivity

Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia