Irish Wolfhound vs Siberian Husky

Hound · Giant vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 45–60 lbs for the Siberian Husky.
  • The Siberian Husky typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Siberian Husky has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Irish Wolfhound sheds less.
  • The Irish Wolfhound is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish WolfhoundSiberian Husky
Group
HoundWorking
Size
GiantMedium
Origin
IrelandSiberia
Height (male)
32–34"21–23.5"
Height (female)
30–32"20–22"
Weight (male)
120 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
105 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
6–8 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
wirehairedmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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 Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is a friendly, mischievous, loyal pack dog bred to pull sleds — known for blue eyes and dramatic howls. Originally from Siberia, this medium working breed typically weighs 45–60 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, outgoing, mischievous.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia

Siberian Husky health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Hypothyroidism