One of the gentlest of dogs, your Irish Wolfhound is nothing like the ferocious War Hound of history. He never appears in a hurry to do anything, but he can cover a lot of ground with that great loping stride, and needs a good two hours of exercise every day. He has a naturally proud, calm bearing, and does not bark much at all. Devoted to his family, he will be stand-offish with total strangers, but never aggressive. However, his close affinity with humans makes your Irish Wolfhound acutely sensitive to ill will or malicious intent which makes him a wonderful guardian, though not the best of guard dogs (remember he doesn’t bark). He is the perfect dog to have around if you live alone. Your Wolfhound is born with specialised skills, so while not aggressive or territorial with other dogs, he will ‘course’ them at play (chase and bring down). This is hunting behaviour, and not fighting or dominating behaviour. Most Wolfhounds are gentle with children, and aware of their power and size, though they can knock toddlers and elderly people down if there isn’t enough space. With his warlike history centuries behind him, your Irish Wolfhound will give you and yours lifelong loyalty, patience and devotion.