Irish Wolfoodle

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70-105 lbs
16-33"
North America
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Irish Wolfhound
Poodle

A gentle giant, the Irish Wolfoodle is a loving, intelligent hybrid that is a cross between the noble Irish Wolfhound and the quick-witted Standard Poodle. These shaggy coated hybrids are prized for their kind and sometimes lazy nature which makes them great companions for those who prefer a quiet lifestyle. The Irish Wolfhound is best suited to a cool environment as they may overheat in hot climates. They are not meant to live in an apartment as they require space for lots of movement. Not a dog for novice owners, these canines can be quite stubborn and difficult to handle if not trained well. The history of this hybrid is still unknown as they are quite a new breed.
Purpose
Companionship, Watchdog
Date of Origin
Unknown
Ancestry
Irish Wolfhound and Standard Poodle

Irish Wolfoodle Health

Average Size
Male Irish Wolfoodle size stats
Height: 16-33 inches Weight: 70-120 lbs
Female Irish Wolfoodle size stats
Height: 16-33 inches Weight: 70-105 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Gastric Dilation Volvulus
  • Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Minor Concerns
  • Cataracts
  • Glaucoma
Occasional Diagnoses
  • Wobbler Syndrome
  • Corneal Dystrophy
Occasional Tests
  • X-Rays
  • Electrocardiogram
  • Blood Count
  • Blood Chemistry
  • Echocardiography (ultrasound)

Irish Wolfoodle Breed History

The Irish Wolfoodle is a relatively new hybrid and its exact origins remain a mystery. One can look to the parents for some background on the hybrid. An old breed, the Irish Wolfhound was once only owned by royalty and therefore, he spent his time on the royal courts. The gift from one royal family to another was often one of these capable canines. A protector, warrior and hunter, the Irish Wolfhound of today resulted from the careful breeding of the Great Dane, Scottish Deerhound Tibetan Borzi, and the Pyrenean Wolfhound. Continuing to hunt large game and protect households, they were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1897. Also one of the oldest known breeds, the Standard Poodle is a sophisticated dog said to have originated in Germany and was originally a cross between the Barbet, and Russian and Spanish water dogs. The development of this highly intelligent breed was further advanced by the French. Toy and Miniature versions of this clever canine were brought into being in the 1400s, further increasing their popularity. The Poodle has a varied history, from hunting, to foraging for truffles, to performing in the circus. Registered with the American Kennel Club in 1888, the Poodle continues to showcase their talent and versatility in the show ring and as service dogs.

Irish Wolfoodle Breed Appearance

The Irish Wolfoodle can be quite a tall dog, ranging from 16 to over 32 inches. These tall dogs have long legs, long tails with a slight curve, and a long body. Although they are tall they have a strong stance; their overall appearance is considered to be quite sturdy and lean. They have a narrow body type with a slightly broadened face and chest. Their muzzles are long and their eyes are almond shaped and may bear resemblance to the wolf. Eye colors vary from brown and amber to pumpkin colored. The coat of this attractive hybrid can be quite dense, shaggy and rough to the touch. Coat color can vary from wheaten mixes, to reds, silver, white & cream, apricot, and black with silver markings.
Eye Color Possibilities
brown Irish Wolfoodle eyes
Brown
amber Irish Wolfoodle eyes
Amber
Nose Color Possibilities
black Irish Wolfoodle nose
Black
Coat Color Possibilities
brindle Irish Wolfoodle coat
Brindle
cream Irish Wolfoodle coat
Cream
white Irish Wolfoodle coat
White
silver Irish Wolfoodle coat
Silver
gray Irish Wolfoodle coat
Gray
red Irish Wolfoodle coat
Red
black Irish Wolfoodle coat
Black
Coat Length
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
Irish Wolfoodle curly coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Irish Wolfoodle Breed Maintenance

The Irish Wolfoodle is a hybrid that may lean towards hypoallergenic if it takes on more of the Poodle coat. If the Irish Wolfhound coat is predominant, this hybrid can be a year-round shedder and may need to be brushed once a week in order to remove loose hairs or trapped dirt. The Irish Wolfoodle doesn’t need to be washed too often and sometimes a damp wash cloth is enough to clean the coat. It is important to always make sure the ears of your Wolfoodle are clean and dry as the ear can harbor moisture and dirt. Other important maintenance requirements include regular teeth brushing and nail trimming, particularly if you have a lazy hybrid who may not wear down his nails on his own. Pay special attention to the back of your hybrid's elbows and knees as calluses can develop if your dog tends to lie on hard floors a lot (most commonly prevalent in hot environments as they seek out the cold floor for comfort). Providing a blanket or dog bed in a cool area of the home may be just what your Wolfoodle needs in order to be comfortable.
Brushes for Irish Wolfoodle
Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Scissors
Nail Clipper
Brushing Frequency
Irish Wolfoodle requires weekly brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Irish Wolfoodle Temperament

Loyal, clever and good natured all best describe the loving Irish Wolfoodle. These dogs make great companions in family homes. They are not aggressive but they are not recommended to be left alone with young or small children, due to their size and lack of ability to take care when playing. Monitor your Irish Wolfoodle around small animals as well; remember, their instinct is to hunt. Their size can be quite intimidating to most strangers, but these hybrids are too friendly to be aggressive. They can either be shy or friendly when meeting strangers. When it comes to training the Irish Wolfoodle is a smart breed, quick to learn, but they can be  stubborn. Consistency and a kind hand are essential training elements. As all dogs are different, personalities can vary depending on how your individual hybrid is raised. Socialization with pets and people beginning at a young age is important, as is obedience training, in order to have a well-behaved pup.

Irish Wolfoodle Activity Requirements

These hybrids can be quite laid back, particularly if they inherit more of the Irish Wolfhound traits. The energetic side of the Poodle may provide a nice balance as they bring a fair bit of energy into the mix. As the Irish Wolfoodle is a big breed, they need at least a few walks per day in order to stretch their long legs. The Poodle parent is an intelligent breed; your hybrid will require a lot of play time and training that allows them to use their keen minds; lack of opportunity may lead to boredom and mischief. Due to their large size, the Irish Wolfoodle is not suited to an apartment lifestyle; they are best suited to big homes where they will have plenty of space to stretch out and play. These hybrids have really dense coats and will not want to be in the heat too long. Give them a cool day however, and they will be more than willing to partake in any activity you suggest.
Activity Level
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
9 miles
Minutes of Activity Per Day
75 minutes

Similar Maintenance Breeds to Irish Wolfoodle

Similarly Sized Breeds to Irish Wolfoodle

Irish Wolfoodle Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
4 cups
Daily Cost
$2.75 - $3.00
Monthly Cost
$80.00 - $90.00
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Written by Loreziel Ortega

Published: 02/05/2018, edited: 02/24/2021

More articles by Loreziel Ortega

Irish Wolfoodle Owner Experiences

Liquorice
2 Years
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Such a great dog! He’s very patient with our hyper Australian Cattle Dog, and he always waits for her to take her treat first.
3 weeks ago
Wyatt
7 Months
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
@ 7mos recommended to avoid running until 18mos
My Wolfadoodle has more Wolfhound looks - longer wiry thin, shedding coat but definitely had more Poodle traits - excitability, alert/ leary watchdog & barking but also combo.breed intelligence. Very sweet boy & while being brought up w/ smaller dogs & CATS, Wolfhound traits do occasionally pop up w/ a tendency to 'grab' necks - though thankfully w/ a softer Poodle mouth. Often does not realize his size or strength (so far), but has an ability to pick up training fairly quickly (of course w/ treats!) Can be lazy at times (such as getting up on couch w/ me, but only 1/2 way is good enough for him most of the time, since he was small/ around 2-3 mos)... pretty amusing though. May be bc he's still a pup, but can be very excitable. People should know that it IS IMPERATIVE that their activity level/ running should be kept to a MINIMUM until after they're done growing around 18mos - as it can have potentially negative effects on their bones while still developing - not something very easy to do! Also do not spay or neuter before 18mos of age, which can also have negative effects on growth development (no matter how badly you want to!) Hormones are especially important while growing in this breed to avoid structural frame damage for one. FEEDING will cost you a bundle, as the active demeanor of this breed (at least for mine) is ALWAYS HUNGRY & it is important to feed a good, well balanced food (I use American Natural Premium - original or sensitive), as they are a lean breed & for proper bone growth - should AVOID grain free, high calcium puppy foods that could cause bone damage later on. It is recommended to often feed adult foods after weaning off 1st puppy foods for a proper dietary intake while developing. Also with this sensitive to some foods breed - AVOID any foods containing PEAS, POTATOES, LEGUMES (lentils, chickpeas, etc) in any form, esp used to falsely boost up protein content. They do have health issues & those ingredients will have negative effects on heart development! So far though, so good - but any 7 mos old puppy can be a challenge until they near full development approx at 18 mos old.
8 months, 1 week ago
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - Nutrition
Question

I have a 9 week old F1 Wolfoodle arriving in a few weeks. I heard I should change them from the puppy food to adult food. Is this a good recommendation? Also, if that is a good recommendation, I was going to feed her Wellness brand - Complete Health Large Breed (Adult)... if not recommended, I will go with the same brand, just for large breed puppy.

Answer
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