Irish Wolfhound vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Hound · Giant vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 24–30 lbs for the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
  • The Pembroke Welsh Corgi typically lives longer (12–13 years).
  • The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Irish Wolfhound sheds less.
  • The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish WolfhoundPembroke Welsh Corgi
Group
HoundHerding
Size
GiantSmall
Origin
IrelandWales
Height (male)
32–34"10–12"
Height (female)
30–32"10–12"
Weight (male)
120 lbs24–30 lbs
Weight (female)
105 lbs24–28 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
6–8 years12–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
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)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedmedium
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 Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a smart, alert, affectionate herder on stumpy legs — the favorite breed of Queen Elizabeth II. Originally from Wales, this small herding breed typically weighs 24–30 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as smart, alert, affectionate.

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Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia

Pembroke Welsh Corgi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • IVDD
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Degenerative myelopathy
  • Obesity