Breed Database/Irish Wolfhound
dog breed

Irish Wolfhound Health Guide

Evidence-based breed health intelligence covering genetic predispositions, common conditions, and preventative care for Irish Wolfhounds.

Breed Type

dog

Size

Giant

Life Expectancy

6-8 years

Conditions Tracked

6

3 High Risk
2 Moderate Risk
1 Low Risk

High Risk Conditions

3

Osteosarcoma

10-25% prevalence
MusculoskeletalComplex Multifactorial inheritance

Bone cancer

Typical onset: Risk generally increases after age 6 — Risk generally increases after age 6
Preventative measures
  • •Monitor for limping
  • •Regular vet checks
  • •Pain management

Bloat (GDV)

20-30% prevalence

Gastric torsion and bloating

Typical onset: Risk increases with age; life-threatening emergency — Risk increases with age; life-threatening emergency
Preventative measures
  • •Multiple small meals
  • •Avoid exercise after eating
  • •Gastropexy surgery

Heart Disease

10-20% prevalence

Aortic stenosis

Typical onset: Can be congenital or develop with age — Can be congenital or develop with age
Preventative measures
  • •Regular cardiac screening
  • •Monitor for symptoms
  • •Early detection

Moderate Risk Conditions

2

Liver Shunt

HepatobiliaryComplex Multifactorial inheritance

Portosystemic shunt.

Hip Dysplasia

MusculoskeletalPolygenic inheritance

Hip joint malformation.

Low Risk Conditions

1

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow joint malformation.

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