Irish Wolfhound vs. Great Dane

The Irish Wolfhound has a history that stretches back centuries in Ireland. Originally bred to hunt wolves and other large game, these dogs needed both speed and size to do their job well. Over time, as wolves disappeared, Irish Wolfhounds transitioned into beloved companions—though they never lost their dignified presence.

Great Danes, despite their name, were developed in Germany. They were bred to hunt wild boar, a task that required strength, agility, and stamina. As their role shifted away from hunting, breeders focused on creating the friendly, easygoing dogs we know today.

At first glance, both breeds are unmistakably large—but once you look a little closer, their differences become clear.

• Irish Wolfhound: Exceptionally tall with a lean, long-legged frame built for speed and endurance rather than bulk. Typically stands 30+ inches at the shoulder and weighs 105–120 pounds (sometimes more), resulting in a towering yet relatively slender appearance.
• Great Dane: Slightly shorter on average but noticeably heavier, with a strong, muscular build designed for power. Usually stands 28–32 inches tall and weighs 110–175 pounds, meaning this breed has an overall more solid and robust physique.

Both breeds come in a wide range of colors, but their coat types differ:

• Irish Wolfhounds have a rough, wiry coat seen most often in gray, brindle, red, black, and white.
• Great Danes have a short, sleek coat in colors including fawn, brindle, blue, black, harlequin, and mantle.

• Irish Wolfhound: A long skull with a pointed muzzle and small, rose-shaped ears
• Great Dane: A long, rectangular head with high-set ears folded close to the cheek. It’s also common to see Great Dane ears cropped, though this is a controversial procedure many veterinary organizations oppose.

If you’re looking for a calm presence in your home, the Irish Wolfhound often fits the bill. These dogs are gentle, quiet, and deeply devoted to their families. They’re happiest when they’re near their people, but they don’t usually demand constant activity.

Great Danes tend to bring a bit more playful energy into the home. They’re affectionate, people-oriented, and often unaware of their size—many will happily lean on you or attempt to sit in your lap.

Both breeds do best with positive reinforcement training and early socialization. Consistency and patience go a long way with these sensitive, people-focused dogs.

Irish Wolfhounds need 60–120 minutes of daily exercise, typically through one to two longer walks (1–2 miles total) plus time to move freely in a secure (ideally fenced) space. While they enjoy stretching their legs, they’re not built for endurance running: Short bursts of activity followed by rest suit them best. Avoid jogging until they’re at least 16 months old, when their joints are more developed.

Great Danes need about 30–60 minutes of daily exercise, often a mix of neighborhood walks and light play. Younger Great Danes may have bursts of energy, but they’re still not built for long-distance running.

Daily activity for both breeds can also include mental enrichment activities. Additionally, these dogs should both avoid high-impact activities while they’re growing. Their large frames put extra stress on developing joints—especially during large-breed puppy growth stages.

Irish Wolfhounds have a rough, wiry coat that needs regular upkeep. Plan to brush them at least once a week using a rake brush like the Evolution Dog Undercoat Grooming Rake, followed by a pin brush to remove debris and prevent tangles.

Their coat may also need occasional trimming or hand-stripping to maintain its texture. Baths are typically needed every four to six weeks.

By contrast, Great Danes are much lower maintenance. Their short coat only needs weekly brushing, usually with a grooming mitt or curry brush. They typically need a bath every couple of months, unless they get especially dirty.

Both breeds shed, but the amount and maintenance look a little different. Irish Wolfhounds shed moderately year-round, and their wiry coat can trap loose hair; regular brushing helps keep it under control. You may notice a slight increase in the Irish Wolfhound’s shedding during seasonal changes, but it’s usually manageable with consistent grooming, ideally weekly.

Great Danes also shed consistently, and because of their short coat, you’ll likely notice those fine hairs on furniture and clothing. While they don’t have heavy seasonal shedding like some other double-coated breeds, you might see more hair during spring and fall. During those seasons, brushing more frequently—every few days or even daily—can help keep shedding in check.

Both breeds also need nail trims every four to six weeks, along with regular ear checks. Dental care is also important: Brushing their teeth several times a week helps prevent buildup.

Giant breeds come with unique health considerations, and both Irish Wolfhounds and Great Danes have shorter lifespans than smaller dogs.

• Irish Wolfhounds are more commonly affected by dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), osteosarcoma (bone cancer), bloat, and gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). Talk with your veterinarian about preventive strategies, including feeding routines that may help reduce the risk of bloat.
• Great Danes also have a high risk of bloat and GDV, and may be prone to hip dysplasia, wobbler syndrome (a spinal condition), and degenerative lumbosacral stenosis, which affects the lower spine.

Allergies may show up in both breeds as itchy skin, ear infections, or digestive issues. Staying consistent with veterinary care, maintaining a healthy weight, and watching for early signs of illness can make a meaningful difference.

Choosing between an Irish Wolfhound and a Great Dane often comes down to your lifestyle.

Irish Wolfhounds are a great fit if you’re looking for a calmer, more laid-back companion who enjoys daily walks and is also happy to relax at home.

Great Danes may be a better match if you want a more playful, attention-loving dog to be involved in everything you do.

No matter which you choose, life with a giant dog is full of big personalities and even bigger cuddles. Making sure you’re prepared for their size, care needs, and shorter lifespan will help you give them the best possible life.