Irish wolfhound and German shepherd Mix, a rare combo but this is for someone who likes to experiment with breeds and Yes, I mean it.
Physical Feature | Irish Wolfhound | German Shepherd | Irish Wolfhound and German Shepherd Mix |
---|---|---|---|
Size | Large | Medium to large | Large to giant |
Weight | 120-180 lbs | 75-90 lbs | 70-120 lbs or more |
Height | 32-34 inches (male), 28-30 inches (female) | 22-26 inches (male), 20-24 inches (female) | 25-32 inches or more |
Build | Muscular and athletic | Muscular and powerful | Muscular and athletic |
Coat | Rough and wiry | Double coat | Rough and wiry or double coat |
Color | Gray, brindle, red, black, or white | Black and tan, black, or sable | Any combination of Irish Wolfhound and German Shepherd colors |
Temperament | Gentle and affectionate | Intelligent and loyal | Gentle and affectionate, intelligent and loyal |
Lifespan | 8-12 years | 9-13 years | 8-12 years |
Table of Contents
This Article is focused more on GSDs but my aim here is to share my thoughts of the combos or mix of every breed German shepherd.
Now let’s get into details about the Irish wolfhound and German shepherd Mix.
Irish Wolfhound German Shepherd Mix is a mixed dog breed between German shepherds and Irish Wolfhounds. These are two distinct species. Both are very strong and powerful. The Irish Wolfhound was named to hunt boars, wolves, and bears and does not look like a wolf. If we speak about German shepherds, they are very well-known breeds in the world, they are known for their ability to stay loyal to their owners and an excellent watchdog.
The Majestic Blend: The History of the Irish Wolfhound and German Shepherd Mix
The Irish Wolfhound, with its origins dating back to 273 BC, was originally bred by the Celts to hunt massive prey like the Irish wolf. These colossal hounds became symbols of nobility, but their numbers dwindled over time.
The German Shepherd, on the other hand, came into existence in the 1850s when Captain Max von Stephanitz sought to create the ultimate working dog. His vision led to the development of a breed known for intelligence, versatility, and unwavering loyalty.
Wikipedia does better research than anyone else and we can find good information about the history of this Breed Mix.
Here is the website that covers all the historical information about the Irish Wolfhound German shepherd Mix.
Here are some Quick facts and information about Irish wolfhounds and German shepherds Mix SIZE AND WEIGHT
IRISH WOLFHOUND
- Origins: Ireland
- Size: Giant
- Grooming: Time-Consuming
- Training: Average
- Height: 30-32 inches at the shoulder
- Weight: 105-120 lb.
- Lifespan: 6-8 years
- Recognition: FCI: Group 10, AKC: Hounds, ANKC: Hounds, CKC: Hounds, KC: Hounds, NZKC: Hounds, UKC: Sighthounds & Pariahs
GERMAN SHEPHERD
- Origins: Germany
- Size: Large to Giant
- Grooming: Average
- Training: Easy
- Height: 22 – 26 inches at the shoulder
- Weight: 75 – 95 lb.
- Lifespan: 10 – 14 years
- Recognition: FCI: Group 1, AKC: Herding, ANKC: Working, CKC: Herding, KC: Pastoral, NZKC: Working, UKC: Herding
Appearance of Irish wolfhound and German shepherd Mix
It is very surprising that this mixed breed of dog will either look like a German shepherd or an Irish wolfhound, though it is a crossbreed.
If a mating happens between a male Irish wolfhound and a Female German shepherd, most of the puppies look like a German shepherd and vice Versa.
We can find some similarities in one face of this mixed breed, though the physical appearance remains the same.
Irish wolfhound and German shepherd Mix Nutrition
Irish Wolfhound Shepherds eat a lot, especially when they are puppies. This is because they are a large breed and have a high energy level. It is important to feed them high-quality food that is specifically designed for large-breed dogs. You should also be careful not to overfeed them, as this can lead to health problems such as hip dysplasia.
Here is a summary of the feeding guidelines for Irish Wolfhound Shepherds:
- Feed high-quality dog food that is specifically designed for large breed dogs.
- Be careful not to overfeed them, as this can lead to health problems.
- Adjust their food intake as they grow and develop.
- Work with a veterinarian to determine the perfect amount of food for your dog.
Here are some additional tips for feeding your Irish Wolfhound Shepherd:
- Feed them two to three meals per day.
- Avoid feeding them table scraps, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems.
- Make sure they have access to fresh water at all times.
- Monitor their weight and adjust their food intake as needed.
With proper feeding, your Irish Wolfhound Shepherd will stay healthy and active for many years to come.
Irish wolfhound and German shepherd Mix Grooming
Irish Wolfhound Shepherds shed a lot, especially during the spring and fall. They have a double coat, with a rough, water-proof outer coat and a soft, insulating inner coat. When they shed, it is mostly the undercoat that comes out.
You should brush your Irish Wolfhound Shepherd at least once a week to remove dead hair, dirt, and debris. This will also help to keep their coat healthy and spread out their natural skin oils. You may need to brush them more often during the heavier shedding periods.
You will also need to trim your Irish Wolfhound Shepherd’s nails regularly and remove some of the hair from their ears and the bottom of their paws. This will help to prevent infections and keep them from slipping.
Here is a simple summary of the grooming requirements for Irish Wolfhound Shepherds:
- Brush at least once a week, more often during heavy shedding periods.
- Trim nails regularly.
- Remove hair from ears and bottom of paws.
With regular grooming, you can help your Irish Wolfhound Shepherd to stay healthy and look their best.
Irish wolfhound and German shepherd Mix Exercise
Irish wolfhound and German shepherd Mix need daily activity to resist destructive behavior and stay physically healthy. A house with a large backyard is the ideal environment for this crossbreed. They need room to stretch their legs.
Also read: White German shepherd from Puppy to Pal: The Complete Guide.
If you live in an apartment, you may want to consider a small dog breed or dog that resembles a wolf. Not only is the apartment a very small space, this mixer prefers to spend time outdoors like its wolf parent.
Wolfhounds and GSD Mix need lifelong exercise. Since they have a strong tendency to hunt and chase prey, they should be allowed to loosen safely only in fenced areas, and any walk should be taken on a leash. As adults, the bed may turn into potatoes if the Irish wolfhounds allow it, but regular exercise such as long walks or game sessions can help keep them physically and mentally healthy. They need a house with a very large fence to provide an environment in which they can thrive.
Now let me quickly talk about the advantages and disadvantages of adopting this mixed breed.
- Uniqueness: The uniqueness of this dog is that this looks like either GSD or Irish Wolfhound with minor changes on the face and it’s a very rare mixed breed.
- Carries a Huge Look: This dog is not only aggressive but his giant figure makes an intruder.
- Toddlers: They play extra ordinarily with children who are more than 5 years old but have to be very careful with toddlers as these dogs may consider them as toys and may harm them.
- Not Good for apartment living: They have very great sense of sounds as in apartments we always tend to hear the voices and sounds of our neighbours and hence that may always keep them engaged and stay alert which destroys their energy.
Irish Wolfhound Shepherd Training Requirements
Training an Irish Wolfhound Shepherd is not difficult, but it requires patience and consistency. These dogs are intelligent and eager to please, but they can also be independent and stubborn. This is because they were bred to hunt on their own, and they still have that instinct to make their own decisions.
It is important to start training early and be consistent. These dogs can be large and powerful, so it is important to teach them basic obedience commands, such as sit, stay, come, and down. This will help to ensure that they are safe and controllable.
It is also important to socialize your Irish Wolfhound Shepherd. This means exposing them to different people, places, and situations. This will help them to learn how to behave in different environments and reduce the risk of aggression.
Here are some tips for training your Irish Wolfhound Shepherd:
- Start early and be consistent.
- Use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise.
- Be patient and don’t get discouraged if your dog doesn’t learn right away.
- Socialize your dog early and expose them to different people, places, and situations.
- Consider enrolling your dog in puppy obedience classes.
With patience and consistency, you can train your Irish Wolfhound Shepherd to be a well-behaved and loving companion.