Irish Wolfhound vs Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Hound · Giant vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 30–50 lbs for the Polish Lowland Sheepdog.
  • The Polish Lowland Sheepdog typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Polish Lowland Sheepdog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Polish Lowland Sheepdog sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish WolfhoundPolish Lowland Sheepdog
Group
HoundHerding
Size
GiantMedium
Origin
IrelandPoland
Height (male)
32–34"18–20"
Height (female)
30–32"17–19"
Weight (male)
120 lbs30–50 lbs
Weight (female)
105 lbs30–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
6–8 years12–14 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)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Polish Lowland Sheepdog

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is a clever, lively, perceptive Polish shaggy herder — shaggy-coated dog known for memory and adaptability. Originally from Poland, this medium herding breed typically weighs 30–50 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as clever, lively, perceptive.

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Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia

Polish Lowland Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders