Some dog breeds look so similar that people often end up thinking they are twins. The same case is with these gentle giants.
The Irish Wolfhound and Scottish Deerhound are deeply rooted in history – they were originally meant to pursue large game like hunting wolves in Ireland and deer in the Scottish Highlands. Their large size, calm temperament, and majestic stride can easily capture the attention of anyone.
When talking about which one of the two breeds is more graceful, we need to look at various factors such as their appearance, how healthy they are, exercise needs, temperament, social interaction with other dogs, and their average lifespan.
Let’s learn more about the Irish Wolfhound and the Highland Deerhound based on these key differences.
Irish Wolfhound vs. Scottish Deerhound: Which Is More Graceful?
Out of these two breeds, the Irish Wolfhound is taller and commands respect. Regardless of this, the personality of this dog is amazingly elegant, blending strength and softness in every step they take. This wolfhound almost feels like royal, like a living piece of Ireland’s history, according to VCA Animal Hospitals.
On the other hand, the Scottish Deerhound has a more slender frame. It was originally bred further back in the 16th century in Scotland to hunt large Scottish roe deer. Its wiry coat and streamlined body add to its greyhound-like appearance, and its flowing stride is almost effortless and smooth.
Both of these dogs radiate grace: the Irish Wolfhound with its royalty, and the Scottish Deerhound with its refined flexibility. The main differences lie in your preference. It depends on whether you are looking for a powerful presence or delicate elegance.
Appearance Differences: Irish Wolfhound vs. Scottish Deerhound
The Irish Wolfhound is considered to be one of the tallest dogs in the world; it’s around 30-32 inches tall. Their wiry coats come in colors like grey, red, fawn, and brindle, adding more to their rough yet noble charm. They have a wise face and floppy ears, and their eyes are medium to dark brown in color.
The Scottish Deerhound is more commonly known as Greyhound-like. But they are larger and have a more structured frame than Greyhounds. They come in a variety of colors like brindle, dark-blue gray, red fawn, and yellow. Their eyes can be hazel-colored, and they have longer legs than the wolfhound.
Both breeds have high similarities with the greyhound; however, the Irish Wolfhound is broader and stockier, while the Scottish Deerhound has a slimmer body and has longer lives on average.
Temperament and Personality Traits
Known for their huge and tall frame, Irish Wolfhounds are often referred to as gentle giants. These lovely dogs can be a great addition to your house as they feel less like pets and more like a companion. They can be sensitive and intelligent, and their patience is commendable with children, as per the AKC.
Similar to the Irish Wolfhound, the Scottish Deerhound can be gentle, but they are also quick-witted and agile. In the comfort of their homes, they are affectionate, but seem to be reserved with strangers. They can be sensitive to human emotions, so a consistent and caring owner is necessary for them.
Both breeds are capable, dignified, and affectionate, but the Irish Wolfhound is warmer and more dependent on closeness, while the Scottish Deerhound balances two factors together: affection and independence. The wolfhound can entertain families more, whereas the deerhound is an athletic entertainer.
Exercise Needs and Energy Levels
Irish Wolfhounds are fond of moderate exercise. Walking every day is one of the biggest sources of their happiness, and they tend to curl happily at your feet after receiving a good space to stretch. Their energy levels can vary from low to moderate. They are often called “couch potatoes in giant bodies,” as PetMD notes.
To stay healthy physically and mentally, the Scottish deerhound needs to be given open spaces to run and practice regular exercise. Their energy levels are usually between moderate to high, as they have a stronger need to exercise. Without enough activity, they can become bored or restless.
If you require a calmer companion who matches your quiet lifestyle, then the Irish Wolfhound is a suitable match for you. Otherwise, if you have an active lifestyle and have space for sprints, the Scottish Deerhound is a better option.
Social Interaction and Behavior with Other Animals
The Irish Wolfhound is a naturally social dog and generally gets along with other dogs. They can live well in multi-pet households and can accompany other animals when raised alongside them. Due to their calm nature, the frequency of conflicts ranges from little to none, and they are rarely aggressive.
The Deerhounds, on the other hand, are also friendly, but they have a high prey drive. Their hunting history may indicate that smaller pets, like cats or rabbits, might trigger chasing behavior. The trainer should make them socialize at earlier life stages to allow them to coexist in multi-pet households.
Both dogs can thrive in a friendly and social environment, but the Irish Wolfhound is generally viewed as more adaptable and forgiving, whereas the Deerhound can require a bit more careful introduction while meeting smaller animals due to their hunting origins.
Coat Type, Grooming Needs, and Maintenance
Wolfhounds have a rough and double coat that consists of a wiry and harsh outer coat that requires regular brushing to avoid dirt or mats. Their grooming sessions usually take time, due to their great size, but their coats aren’t excessively high-maintenance. Like all breeds, their nails should be properly trimmed, as long nails can be painful to both the dog and its owner.
Weekly brushing can be more than enough to make Deerhounds look presentable. Their harsh, somewhat wiry coat does not need a lot of maintenance. AKC states that occasional bathing is crucial to keep the doggy odor away. They also shed less, which makes them even more convenient to manage.
Both breeds come in different coat colors like brindle, sandy red, gray, and fawn. No matter which breed you bring home, grooming is a small price to pay for their regal companionship. Wolfhounds slightly demand more grooming because of their size, while Deerhounds are easier to maintain overall.
Health, Lifespan, and Common Medical Concerns
Health plays a crucial role in everybody’s lives, be it humans or animals. Irish Wolfhounds are commonly referred to as fragile breeds. They require a careful diet, moderate exercise, and regular vet check-ups for them to live a healthy life.
Their lifespan usually ranges from 6-8 years. They commonly suffer from heart disease, bloating, or even life-threatening and sudden swelling of the abdomen.
Scottish Deerhounds are longer lived on average; their lifespan is around 8-10 years. Compared with other dogs, they seem to have a shorter lifespan, but they live slightly longer than Wolfhounds. They can be affected by osteosarcoma, cystinuria, dilated cardiomyopathy, and liver shunt.
For both breeds, it’s important to ensure they have well-planned diets, regular maintenance, and routine veterinary care.
Conclusion
When choosing between two breeds, you have to figure out what kind of grace speaks to you. The Irish Wolfhound carries majesty, closeness, and power, while the Scottish Deerhound has a better lifespan and radiates with elegance and athleticism.
Imagine this: you’re walking down the streets and you notice everyone looking at the loyal, affectionate, gentle giant beside you. Liking this imagination? If yes, then the Irish Wolfhound is the right option for you. If you are drawn to an athletic and graceful dog, the Deerhound will surprise you with every stride.
Both breeds carry origins from brilliant places like Ireland and Scotland. No matter which dog you choose to be your companion, you’ll share your life with a dog whose presence is unforgettable and whose pawprints leave an everlasting mark on your heart.
