The Irish Wolfhound Of immense size and commanding appearance, the Irish Wolfhound is remarkable in combining power and amazing speed with keen sight. The largest of the sighthounds these Gentle Giants are also the tallest breed of dog in the world. They are calm, courageous, and dignified. The Irish Wolfhound is known to create a strong bond with their family. One of the oldest known dog breeds, history shows the Celts, in 273BC, used the Irish Wolfhounds when they sacked Delphi, Greece. Named for their purpose rather than appearance, they were used to hunt wolves, and other large game in Ireland. In wartime they were used to drag knights off their horses or out of their chariots during battle. Ownership of these dogs was reserved for only the high born. Over the centuries they became coveted gifts to emperors, kings, and cardinals. Wolfhounds hunted so well that wolves became extinct in Ireland in 1786. No longer needed for the hunt, they nearly became extinct themselves until 1879 when Captain GA Graham made it his mission to save the breed. The Desert Irish Wolfhound Association is a non-profit organization committed to improving the health and welfare of the Irish Wolfhound. We encourage responsible ownership through the mentoring and education of our members and we conduct Irish Wolfhound specific rescue and rehoming throughout Arizona. Today you don’t need to be of noble birth to meet these Gentle Giants, just stop by the Desert Irish Wolfhound Association booth! “Gentle when stroked, fierce when provoked…The Irish Wolfhound” desertirishwolfhounds.org
