Is an Irish Wolfhound Right for Your Family?

5. Life Span

Studies show that the average life span of an Irish wolfhound is about 6.5 years, though breed experts say this can vary within breeding lines, with about nine percent living beyond ten years. A German study of 56,000 dogs found that for every 4.4 pounds of body mass, a dog’s life span decreases by one month. Researchers believe that larger dogs die at a younger age because they age more quickly. Giant breeds like the Irish wolfhound grow faster, which forces the body to work harder to reach its adult size. This rapid growth can lead to a variety of medical conditions, as well as abnormal development. Wolfhounds are also prone to bloat.