Irish Wolfhound vs Yorkshire Terrier

Hound · Giant vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Yorkshire Terrier.
  • The Yorkshire Terrier typically lives longer (11–15 years).
  • The Yorkshire Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Yorkshire Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish WolfhoundYorkshire Terrier
Group
HoundToy
Size
GiantToy
Origin
IrelandEngland
Height (male)
32–34"7–8"
Height (female)
30–32"7–8"
Weight (male)
120 lbs7 lbs
Weight (female)
105 lbs7 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
6–8 years11–15 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)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)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)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 Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a feisty, brave, tomboyish toy terrier with a glamorous floor-length silk coat. Originally from England, this toy toy breed typically weighs 7 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, sprightly, tomboyish.

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Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia

Yorkshire Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Liver shunt
  • Dental disease