The Irish Wolfhound is often called the "gentle giant" of the dog world. Its proud bearing, quiet dignity and intelligence are just some of its many wonderful characteristics. This is definitely a family dog with an incredibly affectionate nature, which thrives on human companionship. Regardless of whether you are looking for a Wolfhound with show potential or one as a companion and family pet it should be physically and temperamentally healthy, exhibiting the friendly even disposition that is essential to its character.

The Wolfhound will live happily with cats, rabbits and other domestic animals if introduced to them as a puppy - however, one must always remember that this dog is a sight hound.

CARE REQUIREMENTS

Raising a puppy that grows as fast as a Wolfhound requires special attention to diet and exercise. A balanced diet is essential to support the rapid growth rate and due to its rapid growth, a puppy's exercise should be restricted until it is nine to 12 months of age. Be especially careful not to let your puppy jump into, on to or out of cars. The breeders will be able to supply you with a suitable exercise regime. A small back yard is sufficient as long as it is kept clean and the dog is walked at least once daily.

Please take note:
Some Wolfhounds like to dig large holes!

IDEAL OWNERS

Families.

IN CONCLUSION

If you have decided that the Irish Wolfhound is the dog for you and you are happy to "turn heads" when you take this gentle giant out for daily walks, then contact one of the groups listed below:

DECISION TIME

Before making a decision on getting a puppy, here are some articles you might find helpful:

• What do we need to consider if we are thinking of buying a puppy?
• How do I determine which breeder to use?
• What should you ask the breeder?
• How do you check if the breeder is reputable?
• What to ask your vet prior to buying a puppy

CANINE CLUBS

Australian Capital Territory ACT Canine Association Inc PO Box 815 Dickson, ACT 2602 Tel: 02 6241 4404 Fax: 02 6241 1129 Email: CONTACT Website: www.actca.asn.au (Details correct as of 1/08/04)		New South Wales Royal New South Wales Canine Council Ltd PO Box 632 St Marys, NSW 1790 Tel: 02 9834 3022 or 1300 728 022 (NSW only) Fax: 02 9834 3872 Email: CONTACT Website: www.rnswcc.org.au (Details current as of 1/08/04)
Northern Territory The North Australian Canine Association Inc PO Box 37521 Winnellie, NT 0821 Tel: 08 8984 3570 Fax: 08 8984 3409 Email: CONTACT Website: www.users.bigpond.com/naca1/ (Details correct as of 6/08/04)		Queensland Canine Control Council (Queensland) PO Box 495 Fortitude Valley, Qld 4006 Tel: 07 3252 2661 Fax: 07 3252 3864 Email: CONTACT Website: www.cccq.org.au (Details correct as of 1/08/04)
South Australia South Australian Canine Association Inc PO Box 844 Prospect East, SA 5082 Tel: 08 8349 4797 Fax: 08 8262 5751 Email: CONTACT Website: www.saca.caninenet.com (Details correct as of 1/08/04)		Tasmania Tasmanian Canine Association Inc The Rothman Building PO Box 116 Glenorchy, Tas 7010 Tel: 03 6272 9443 Fax: 03 6273 0844 Email: CONTACT Website: www.tca.freeservers.com (Details correct as of 1/08/04)
Victoria Victorian Canine Association Locked Bag K9 Cranbourne, Vic 3977 Tel: 03 9788 2500 Fax: 03 9788 2599 Email: CONTACT Website: www.vca.org.au (Details correct as of 1/08/04)		Western Australia Canine Association of Western Australia Inc PO Box 1404 Canning Vale, WA 6970 Tel: 08 9455 1188 Fax: 08 9455 1190 Email: CONTACT Website: www.cawa.asn.au (Details correct as of 1/08/04)