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Irish Wolfhound Did You Know?
- The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest of all dogs.
- Irish Wolfhounds are called, interchangeably, "Irish dogs,"
"Big Dogs of Ireland," "Greyhounds (or Grehounds) of Ireland,"
"Wolfdogs of Ireland" and "Great Hounds of Ireland." Irish
Wolfhound is the more modern name.
- By the year 391 AD, the Irish Wolfhound was known in Rome, when the first
authentic mention of it was written by the Roman Consul Quintus Aurelius,
who had received seven of them as a gift which "all Rome viewed with
wonder."
- Despite his intimidating size, the nature and temperament of the Wolfhound
make him totally unsuitable as guard dog, watch dog, or patrol dog. Though
alert he is not suspicious; though courageous he is not aggressive.
- Wolfhound puppyhound lasts a year or more, and a Wolfhound "puppy"
can weigh about 100 lbs.
- The Irish Wolfhound was coveted for his hunting prowess, particularly
in pursuit of the wolf and the gigantic Irish elk. However, with the disappearance
from Ireland of these animals, and the excessive exportation of the Wolfhound,
the breed became almost extinct.
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