The Irish Wolfhound
The majestic Irish wolfhound, known as the Cú Faoil, in Irish, famed in history and mythology, is one of the largest and strongest dog breeds in the world. It is certainly one of the tallest, reaching over seven feet in height when standing on its hind legs. The Irish wolfhound boasts a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Originally bred by the Celts around 700 BC, these majestic dogs were valued for their hunting prowess, particularly in tracking and bringing down wolves and large game. Their name, "wolfhound," is derived from this primary purpose. Physically, Irish wolfhounds are known for their imposing size, standing up to 32 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 105 and 120 pounds. Their rough, wiry coat, often seen in shades of grey, brindle, or wheaten, further adds to their distinctive look.
Meet Cú and his owner Ed from Westport, Co Mayo. 4½-year-old Cú, who is named after the famed Cú Chulainn is one of the tallest Irish Wolfhounds in Ireland. A multi award winning show dog, Cú was crowned Champion of Connaught in 2022.
In Ireland, the significance of the Irish wolfhound extends beyond their hunting abilities. They are a symbol of nobility and strength, often featured in Irish legends and mythology. “Cú Chulainn”, whose name means "Hound of Culann", is a central figure in Irish mythology but was born with the name Sétanta. He earned the moniker Cú Chulainn after slaying the huge and ferocious guard dog of Culann and subsequently offering himself as a replacement. In ancient times, the great Irish hound was held in such high regard that by ancient Brehon law, only kings, chieftains and nobles were allowed to own them, or if you were a poet, you could have two. Historically, they were given as gifts to royalty and were considered a status symbol among the elite. Today, the Irish wolfhound remains an iconic representation of Irish heritage and culture, celebrated for their noble stature and gentle nature. Their presence in Irish history and folklore underscores their enduring legacy as one of the most revered dog breeds.
Winning show dog Cú, photographed at Westport House, was born and still lives in Westport Co Mayo.
Irish Wolfhounds have a varied range of personalities and are most often noted for their personal quirks and individualism. An Irish wolfhound, however, is rarely mindless, and, despite its large size, is rarely found to be destructive or boisterous in the home. This is because the breed is generally introverted, intelligent, and reserved in character. An easygoing animal, the Irish wolfhound is quiet by nature, and often creates a strong bond with their family. They are often favored for their loyalty, affection, patience, and devotion. However, when they or their families are in any perceived danger, they display a fearless nature. Some Irish wolfhound breeders believe the dogs' close affinity with humans, makes them acutely aware and sensitive to ill will or malicious intentions, leading to their prowess as a guardian rather than guard dog.
Instinctively Irish Wolfhounds are hunters. They were bred to hunt and kill wild beasts and wolves, which once roamed the woodlands of Ireland. There was no beast they would not hunt, from wild boar to stag to giant Irish elk and of course, wolves. It was said that Irish Wolfhounds were the only dogs fast enough to run down a wolf and strong enough to kill it afterwards, tracking mostly by sight and speed. The last wolf was killed in Co. Carlow in 1786, and so the need for wolfhounds also decreased and they almost followed their wild cousins into extinction. We owe their survival to the Scottish Deerhound breeder, Captain George Augustus Graham, who collected over three hundred pedigrees, which he then published and bred.
Cú and his owner Ed, who is a committee member of the ‘Irish Wolfhound Society of Ireland’, pictured a little way up Croagh Patrick, with the magnificent Clew Bay providing the spectacular background.
Today the Irish wolfhound is one of the most cherished symbols of Ireland, representing Irish culture and tradition in a way that few others do, and you can meet a couple of live Irish wolfhounds at Bunratty Castle, Ashford Castle and Westport House, in Co. Mayo.
