Torteval Irish Wolfhounds

Irish wolfhounds give a great deal of pleasure. In return, it is your responsibility to ensure that their needs are met to the full, just as you would for any member of your family.

       Think before you get an Irish wolfhound.
Consider your lifestyle and budget to make sure that you can provide for all his needs. Remember that he will require your care throughout his life.

       Train your wolfhound.
He should be sociable, and under control at all times. By allowing him to socialise with people and animals from an early age, many behavioural problems can be avoided. A well trained wolfhound is a pleasure to own and will not trouble others.

       Feed a well balanced diet.
Reputable brands of commercially prepared diets are available and provide all the nutrients required to keep a wolfhound healthy and looking good. Remember to keep feeding bowls clean and separate from your own dishes.

      Provide suitable housing and bedding.
It is essential to provide safe and comfortable shelter for a wolfhound. Bedding should be positioned in a draught free area and out of direct sunlight. A guard should be placed over an open fire. Your wolfhound must be exercised regularly.

      Clean up after your wolfhound - never go out with a wolfhound and no poo bag! All animals can pick up parasites from the environment - worm your wolfhound regularly. Modern preparations are safe, inexpensive and highly effective, and removing parasites like fleas and worms improves your wolfhound’s health.

      Register with a vet.
Vaccination prevents disease. Annual visits to the vet provide an opportunity for a complete health check. A healthy wolfhound should have bright eyes, a good coat and an inquisitive nature. If signs of illness or a change in behaviour become evident contact your vet – early recognition of a disease allows early treatment.

      Prevent unwanted litters.
If you do not want to breed your wolfhound, you should consider neutering. Spaying helps prevent medical problems such as breast cancer and womb infections.

      Clean and groom your wolfhound.
Regular grooming keeps coats clean and healthy and provides an opportunity to check your hound for parasites or signs of illness. Nails and teeth may also require regular attention.

      Control your wolfhound.
Don’t let your hound stray, or be a nuisance to or frighten others. He must wear a collar and tag, but other more permanent forms of identification are available, such as tattooing and microchips.

      Insure your wolfhound.
Against unexpected vet fees if you wish, and especially for third party liability in case he should cause an accident. A relatively small, regular payment relieves financial stress should the unexpected happen.

Taking good care of your wolfhound will mean he has a better chance of a long and healthy life.