Irish Wolfhound vs Russell Terrier
Hound · Giant vs Terrier · Small
Irish WolfhoundGiant
A courageous, dignified, calm gentle giant — the tallest of all dogs, ancient Celtic war and hunting hound.
Weight: 120 lbsLifespan: 6–8 years
Russell TerrierSmall
A lively, alert, inquisitive English fox-bolter — shorter-legged cousin of Jack Russell, equally feisty.
Weight: 9–15 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Quick take
- • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 9–15 lbs for the Russell Terrier.
- • The Russell Terrier typically lives longer (12–14 years).
- • The Russell Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Irish Wolfhound is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Irish Wolfhound | Russell Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Terrier |
Size | Giant | Small |
Origin | Ireland | England |
Height (male) | 32–34" | 10–12" |
Height (female) | 30–32" | 10–12" |
Weight (male) | 120 lbs | 9–15 lbs |
Weight (female) | 105 lbs | 9–15 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 6–8 years | 12–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
Ad slot · compare-mid
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 Russell Terrier
The Russell Terrier is a lively, alert, inquisitive English fox-bolter — shorter-legged cousin of Jack Russell, equally feisty. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 9–15 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as lively, alert, inquisitive.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Irish Wolfhound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Bone cancer
- • Heart disease
- • Bloat
- • Hip dysplasia
Russell Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
- • Deafness