Although Irish Wolfhounds are a huge breed, they were originally employed to hunt wolves, boar, and deer. They are also loyal, patient, and considerate, making them excellent friends.
Maintaining a weight chart for your puppy can guarantee that they remain healthy throughout their lives.
Adult Irish Wolfhounds typically weigh between 110 and 185 pounds and stand between 30 and 35 inches tall. They are completely developed and have reached their adult height and weight at two years.
This article will discuss what to expect from an Irish Wolfhound growth chart, the health concerns to which the breed is genetically prone, and much more!
When Do Irish Wolfhounds Stop Growing?
Irish Wolfhounds generally cease developing at around the age of two years due to their size. They have reached their mature weight and height at this age.
Irish Wolfhound puppies vary in size and appearance from litter to litter. Some puppies grow slowly at first, while others grow rapidly, but they all eventually reach the same size.
The rate at which an Irish Wolfhound grows is determined by a variety of factors, including nutrition, environment, genetics, and physical activity. Certain Irish Wolfhounds are smaller than usual in size, while others are larger.
What is the Standard Irish Wolfhound Size
At the shoulder, a male Irish Wolfhound should stand at least 32 inches tall and weigh at least 120 pounds. Female Irish Wolfhounds must be at least 30 inches tall and weigh at least 105 pounds. Numerous of them are larger. Males typically stand between 34 and 35 inches tall and weigh between 140 and 180 pounds; girls stand between 32 and 34 inches tall and weigh between 115 and 140 pounds.
Irish Wolfhound Weight Chart
Here is the weight chart of an Irish Wolfhound:
Age | Male Weight | Female Weight |
3 Months | 44.7 lbs | 41.7 lbs |
4 Months | 64.9 lbs | 58.2 lbs |
6 Months | 98.3 lbs | 87.2 lbs |
8 Months | 117.1 lbs | 102.8 lbs |
10 Months | 129.7 lbs | 114.8 lbs |
12 Months | 136 lbs | 116.7 lbs |
18 Months | 144.7 lbs | 120 lbs |
24 Months | 149.8 lbs | 129 lbs |
36 Months | 161. 8 lbs | 132 lbs |
Irish Wolfhound Growth Chart – What To Expect
Irish Wolfhound Weight Chart by Age
Irish Wolfhound Weight 1-2 weeks
When your puppy is born, they are blind and deaf due to their closed eyes and ears. The puppy spends the most of its time at this period sucking and sleeping. Because they are unable to regulate their own body temperature, they rely on their mother for warmth.
The puppy's eyes open and the forelegs strengthen during the second week. At the end of week two, the breeder will begin deworming the puppy.
Irish Wolfhound Weight 3-12 weeks
The puppy will begin standing and sitting up around the third week. Their tails will begin to wag and their ears will fully expand. The youngster will begin socializing and associating with the other puppies in the litter.
At four weeks, the breeder may begin weaning the puppy. At eight weeks of age, the puppy can be placed in a new home. At 12 weeks of age, the puppy should be socialized, since they begin to develop an aversion to unusual persons and situations.
Irish Wolfhound Weight 4- 9months
At this point, your Irish Wolfhound will lose their puppy appearance and begin to resemble an adult. Your puppy will also begin to lose its baby teeth, but will continue to bite and chew excessively.
At four months, the male-female size disparity is already apparent. Males normally attain a height of approximately 24 to 25.5 inches and weigh between 82 and 45 pounds. Females, on the other hand, typically measure between 23.8 and 24.5 inches tall and weigh between 69 and 52 pounds.
As you can see, even at this age, there are some considerable disparities in size. When pups are born, their size does not always correspond to their adult size. Prior to birth, a puppy's growth is heavily influenced by their position in the uterus, which influences the type of nutrients they receive. As a result, when they are born, this is the primary factor determining their size.
Irish Wolfhounds develop rapidly throughout the first six months of life. Dogs will have nearly reached their full height at this point, though they will still have a few inches to grow over the next few years. Dogs will still have plenty of room to grow in terms of weight. From this point forward, some may even treble their weight. Due to the fact that the majority of their height has been achieved, they may appear slightly skinnier than their adult counterparts.
This is completely normal and should not be cause for alarm. They typically attain their full height before beginning to build muscle and fat.
At six months of age, a male Irish Wolfhound weighs between 80 and 110 pounds. The average weight is approximately 96 pounds. Females typically weigh between 107 and 79 pounds, with an average of about 92 pounds. Females average 28 inches in height, while boys average 29.6 inches.
Irish Wolfhound Weight 10-18 months
At this period, your puppy will have increased energy and will be able to participate in specific exercises. Additionally, your dog will attain adult weight and height, but some puppies will continue to grow past the 18-month milestone.
The puppy will begin to demonstrate dominance and desire to be the pack leader; consequently, discipline and obedience training are still required at this point.
This is the moment to transition from puppy to adult food. To avoid disturbing your puppy's tummy, the switch should be made gradually.
What is the Full Grown Irish Wolfhound Weight?
Irish wolfhounds are a huge dog breed. By the time they reach two years old, the average Irish wolfhound will stand between 32 and 35 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 115 and 180 pounds. This is the point at which they are deemed fully mature. While they are the world's tallest dog, they are not the heaviest.
Given their size, it's unsurprising that this purebred dog was utilized in the battle to drag men from chariots and horses. I suppose someone had to do it!
How quickly does an Irish Wolfhound mature?
These dogs mature at a breakneck pace. They are born weighing only about a pound. They do, however, grow at a breakneck pace from birth to roughly six months of age. They can consume as much food as an adult during this time period, primarily because they must gain so many pounds in such a short period of time. These dogs weigh approximately 8 pounds in one month. That is eight times their beginning weight in less than a month — and the majority of that weight was obtained solely from their mother's milk.
They will weigh approximately 23 pounds in eight weeks, and their weight will continue to increase from there. Due to the fact that this rapid growth demands more attention, care, and understanding on the side of the breeder, Irish Wolfhounds are also relatively expensive dogs.
While these dogs grow rapidly, they mature at a slower rate than the majority of other breeds. As a result, puppies are typically not placed in homes until they are 12 weeks old, which is approximately comparable to the eight weeks advised for the majority of other breeds.
Additionally, until they reach the age of 3.5 years, your Irish Wolfhound may exhibit puppy-like behavior. This is because their development is slower and their growing period is longer. Expect years of dealing with a slightly boisterous puppy before the dog settles.
Irish Wolfhound Height Chart
Here is the height chart of an Irish Wolfhound:
Weight (lbs) | Height (inches) | |||
Male | Female | Male | Female | |
2 mos | 24.8 | 23.5 | ||
3 mos | 44.7 | 41.7 | 21.2 | 20.8 |
4 mos | 64.9 | 58.2 | 25.1 | 24.2 |
6 mos | 98.3 | 87.2 | 30.1 | 28.6 |
8 mos | 117.1 | 102.8 | 32.9 | 31.1 |
10 mos | 129.7 | 114.8 | 34.2 | 32.3 |
12 mos | 136.1 | 116.7 | 34.9 | 32.5 |
18 mos | 144.7 | 120.1 | 35.5 | 32.9 |
24 mos | 149.8 | 129.0 | 35.9 | 33.6 |
36 mos | 161.8 | 132.0 | 36.0 | 33.7 |
How To Weigh Your Irish Wolfhound Puppy?
If you want to maintain track of your Irish Wolfhound's weight, you must first learn how to weigh him properly.
To begin, you should be able to weigh your Irish Wolfhound at home if he is a puppy or if you are just large enough to hold him. This can be accomplished with a standard bathroom scale.
To begin, weigh yourself and record the result. Then, while standing on the scale, pick up your dog and hold him. The difference in weights represents your dog's weight.
If your dog is too huge to carry, you can either invest in a dog scale, which can cost upwards of $100, or contact your veterinarian. The majority of veterinarian offices will enable you to use their scale.
Unless there is a health problem, you can weigh an adult Irish Wolfhound once every six months. Once a week is sufficient for a puppy to ensure he is growing normally.
What Is An Irish Wolfhound’s Neck Size?
To determine the neck size of your dog, use a soft and flexible tape measure to determine the neck size of your dog where her collar naturally falls. Then, put two fingers between your dog's neck and the tape measure to ensure that the dog collar fits snugly but comfortably. Irish Wolfhound's average neck circumference is between 22 and 26 inches.
How Big Do Irish Wolfhounds Get?
Irish Wolfhounds are well-known for their size. Generally, males are larger than females. They stand between 34 and 35 inches tall and weigh between 140 and 180 pounds on average. Females are slightly shorter and weigh between 115 and 140 pounds.
Females weigh an average of 132 pounds, while males weigh 162.
On either end of the scale, there are larger and smaller dogs. Females can weigh as little as 105 pounds, although the majority weigh more than that.
Significant size variance is relatively typical, even within the same litter. It is not unusual for each litter to contain some extremely small puppies as well as some quite huge puppies. Because the overall size of the dog is governed by a variety of hereditary factors, it is not as straightforward as direct inheritance. Simply because the parents are larger does not guarantee that the puppies will be as well.
Factors That Affect Irish Wolfhound Puppy Growth
Genetics
Puppies do not all grow at the same rate since no two puppies are identical. Puppies can grow at a quicker or slower rate depending on their genetic make-up. Additionally, certain genetic illnesses can have an effect on the growth of puppies.
Gender is another aspect that impacts a puppy's growth. Female Irish Wolfhounds are often slightly lighter and shorter than male Irish Wolfhounds.
Diet & Nutrition
While all dogs should be provided a healthy diet, the diets of pups and adult dogs vary.
Puppies should be fed three to four times daily and their food should have a healthy balance of calcium, lipids, and proteins.
This is because they require the physical and mental growth of their muscles, bones, fur, teeth, and internal organs.
Adult Irish Wolfhounds should be fed twice daily and their food should be low in calories, fat, and protein, with optimal phosphorus and calcium levels.
Physical Activity & Health
Puppies under the age of six months should not be subjected to any form of physical activity other than playing. At this age, your puppy is rapidly growing and their bones are still fragile; therefore, excessive exercise might result in skeletal diseases.
When your puppy is six months or older, you can begin taking him on short walks; as he grows older, you can gradually increase the duration and frequency of his activity.
Adult Irish Wolfhounds require 20 minutes of exercise twice a day to maintain their health and fitness.
Will Spaying/Neutering My Irish Wolfhound Have an Effect on His Growth?
Neutering is a medical process in which male dogs' testes are removed, and spaying is the surgical removal of female dogs' ovaries.
These treatments should be performed between the ages of 6 and 12 months on your Irish Wolfhound.
Neutering and spaying have a number of health benefits, including lowering the incidence of some reproductive malignancies, reducing aggressive behavior, preventing male dogs from reproducing, and female dogs from becoming pregnant.
However, if you spay or neuter your Irish Wolfhound at a young age, their growth may be impeded, resulting in joint diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia.
Common Questions about Irish Wolfhound
At What Age Is A Irish Wolfhound Fully Grown?
Irish wolfhounds are often completely grown by the time they reach the age of two. They should be between 32 and 35 inches tall and weigh between 115 and 180 pounds at this point.
According to some, these canines reach full maturity between the ages of three and four.
The Irish Wolfhound is also one of the breeds that exhibits considerable variation across litters.
Certain puppies grow swiftly throughout their first few months of life but then slow down. Whereas others may develop slowly at first but eventually reach the same size.
How Long Are Irish Wolfhounds Pregnant?
Dogs typically gestate for roughly 63 days from conception, though this might vary by several days.
How Many Puppies Do Irish Wolfhounds Have?
Irish Wolfhounds can produce litters ranging in size from one to twelve puppies.
What Is The Life Expectancy Of Irish Wolfhounds?
Regrettably, the Irish Wolfhound has one of the shortest lifespans of any breed. These puppies have a lifespan of between 6 and 10 years, with an average of 7 years.
How Much Does It Cost To Own A Irish Wolfhound?
To get an Irish Wolfhound from a reputable breeder, you should budget between $1,400 and $2,500. Dogs with lengthy pedigrees and champion bloodlines are frequently more expensive. While you can locate cheaper canines, they are often of lower quality and are more prone to health problems.
How To Help Your Irish Wolfhound Lose Weight If He Is Overweight
As with humans, exercise is critical for your overweight dog's health. Increased movement helps your dog burn off excess energy (and calories consumed). Avoid panic! Exercising your pet does not have to include marathons or lengthy hikes. Regular walks and the opportunity to run and play safely off-leash.
Even creating a stimulating indoor environment that encourages your dog to exercise on a regular basis can help. Bear in mind that different breeds require varying amounts of exercise, so visit your veterinarian, breeder, or your dog's breed standard for recommendations on recommended activity levels.
Distinguish Begging from Hunger
Begging is not necessarily motivated by a desire for more food; it is also used to gain attention. (And, by rewarding the behavior, you reinforce and encourage it to continue.) If your dog begs, do not automatically assume he is hungry. Trust your instincts and keep track of the date and time of your last meal.
If your dog is prone to begging and you are prone to succumb to those puppy dog eyes, choose a high-protein meal with a fiber blend to help control your dog's hunger and voluntary food consumption. In this manner, you may feed your dog with the assurance that he will feel fuller and content for a longer period of time.
Restriction on treats and table scraps
Even when our dogs are not begging, many of us provide an excessive amount of treats and table scraps. Dogs are not required to share our food! Consider treats and scraps for your pet in the same way that you would candy for children to help you keep them in check. If you're going to utilize snacks for training, choose low-calorie, low-fat ones and keep the portions small.
As an alternative, keep in mind that clickers are excellent for reinforcement… and they have no calories! After all, a few extra pounds can make a significant impact in the lives of dogs, which are significantly smaller than humans. (Even the colossal breeds!) Therefore, focus on a balanced diet and resist the temptation to “reward” them with extra.
Customize Your Dog's Diet
Not all weight-loss foods are created equal, which is why it's critical to match your dog's nutrition plan to their unique needs. Choose a brand that caters to your dog's unique needs, whether they be weight control, dietary sensitivities, or illnesses.
Conclusion on Irish Wolfhound Growth Chart
While the majority of Irish Wolfhounds enjoy healthy lives, some are susceptible to specific health problems such as pneumonia, bone cancer, heart disease, and bloat. As a result, regular visits to the veterinarian will ensure that any sickness is detected early.
While walking is an excellent way to exercise your puppy, you need to keep in mind their age to avoid overexertion. Adequate exercise and a balanced diet will ensure the health of your Irish Wolfhound for the duration of their life.
When purchasing a puppy, choose a respected breeder because they will offer you health clearances on the puppy's parents and the puppy will almost certainly come from a superior pedigree.
Frequently Asked Questions:
When does an Irish Wolfhound reach maturity?
Their development rate is extraordinary, Gendle explains to Dogs Life; they grow from 500 to 800 grams at birth to 40kg or 50kg in nine or ten months. The majority of Wolfhounds do not reach full height until they are approximately two years old, and if you are on a budget, be warned that the Wolfhound puppy has a voracious appetite!
Is a wolfhound classified as a sighthound?
The Irish Wolfhound is an ancient sighthound canine breed from Ireland that has inspired literature, poetry, and mythology by its presence and size.
Are Wolfhounds needy?
Irish wolfhounds are among the most benevolent and social creatures I have ever encountered. They are dignified, infrequently needy, and rarely suffer from separation anxiety.