Irish Wolf Hound, the common name for this dog was also referred to ad "Irish dogs", "Big Dogs of Ireland", "Grehounds of Ireland", Wolf dogs of Ireland" and "Great Hounds of Ireland".

By  391 AD, the breed was known in Rome. The Roman Counsel, Quintas Aurelius, received 7 of them as a gift; "all Rome viewed with wonder".

The following centuries, wolfhounds were compared to the Greyhound, only more robust. It was said that in combat with the Mastiff or Bulldog, there was no equal.

The wolf hound was coveted for his hunting abilities; mainly, in pursuit of the wolf and gigantic Irish elk. With the disappearance of these animals, the wolf hound became almost extinct.

In 1862, Captain George A. Graham, a Scot in the British Army, gathered the remaining specimens and restored the breed. 23 years later, under his tutelage, the first breed standard was set.

"The Irish wolf hound is a large, rough-coated, shaggy-browed hound, built on galloping lines". Because of his large size and exercise needed for his well-being, his ideal home should have a large fenced yard to accommodate the galloping natural to this athletic sight hound. The ideal owner should be able to respond to the gentle nature and intelligence of this magnificent creature.

These sweet, quiet animals are not guard or watch dogs. They are wonderful with children, but a 6 month old pup, weighing 50 to 200 pounds can knock a child flat. His tail alone can do real damage.

The wolf hound is a completely natural breed; his ears and tail are uncropped. No part of the Irish wolf hound should appear clipped or styled, especially his head.

The Irish wolf hound, with his quiet manners and gentle nature, makes a perfect companion.