Irish Wolfhound vs Keeshond

Hound · Giant vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 35–45 lbs for the Keeshond.
  • The Keeshond typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Keeshond has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Irish Wolfhound sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish WolfhoundKeeshond
Group
HoundNon-Sporting
Size
GiantMedium
Origin
IrelandNetherlands
Height (male)
32–34"18"
Height (female)
30–32"17"
Weight (male)
120 lbs35–45 lbs
Weight (female)
105 lbs35–45 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
6–8 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Keeshond

The Keeshond is a friendly, lively, outgoing Dutch barge dog — Holland's national dog with a fluffy 'spectacles' face. Originally from Netherlands, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, lively, outgoing.

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Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia

Keeshond health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart issues
  • Epilepsy