Irish Wolfhound vs Toy Poodle

Hound · Giant vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 4–6 lbs for the Toy Poodle.
  • The Toy Poodle typically lives longer (10–18 years).
  • The Toy Poodle has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Toy Poodle sheds less.
  • The Toy Poodle is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish WolfhoundToy Poodle
Group
HoundToy
Size
GiantToy
Origin
IrelandGermany
Height (male)
32–34"9–10"
Height (female)
30–32"9–10"
Weight (male)
120 lbs4–6 lbs
Weight (female)
105 lbs4–6 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
6–8 years10–18 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)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)Moderate (3/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
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 Toy Poodle

The Toy Poodle is an active, intelligent, lively toy version of the Poodle — apartment-friendly hypoallergenic charmer. Originally from Germany, this toy toy breed typically weighs 4–6 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, intelligent, lively.

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Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia

Toy Poodle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Eye disorders
  • Dental issues