The Irish Wolfhound is the largest domesticated dog in the world. Standing over seven feet tall on its hind legs, it towers easily over even the largest of men. The Irish developed this ancient breed before 391 A.D. to hunt wolves. After the last wolf in the region was killed, the breed nearly became extinct in its native land. Created from a cross between wolves and boarhounds the breed was formerly called the cu. The Romans brought the cu back to Ireland, where it was re-created by an English officer who added breeds such as the Great Dane, and deerhound to the mix. The result became the modern-day Irish wolfhound and can reach the size of a small pony. These dogs are a very lean and athletic with very coarse, wiry, shaggy coats.

• Irish Wolfhound Club of America
• Rocky Mountain Irish Wolfhound Association
• AKC Breed Standard
• The Irish Wolfhound Foundation