Irish Wolfhound vs Scottish Deerhound: full comparison
| Trait | Irish Wolfhound | Scottish Deerhound |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Giant | Giant |
| Energy level | Low | Medium |
| Trainability | Medium | Medium |
| Friendliness | Very High | High |
| Good with children | Very High | High |
| Grooming needs | Medium | Medium |
| Shedding | Medium | Medium |
| Barking | Very Low | Very Low |
| Protectiveness | Low | Low |
| Adaptability | Low | Low |
| Typical lifespan | 7 years | 9 years |
| Hypoallergenic | No | No |
Which should you choose?
Choose the Irish Wolfhound if you want the more child-friendly companion, you want a more outgoing, sociable dog, or you want a calmer, lower-energy companion.
Choose the Scottish Deerhound if you want a longer-lived breed or you want a more energetic partner for sport and adventure.
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Find your perfect match Try the free quizFrequently asked questions
- Is the Irish Wolfhound or the Scottish Deerhound better for families with children?
- The Irish Wolfhound tends to be the more naturally child-friendly of the two, though both can do well in family homes with early socialisation.
- Which sheds more, the Irish Wolfhound or the Scottish Deerhound?
- The Irish Wolfhound and Scottish Deerhound shed a similar amount (medium).
- Which is easier to train, the Irish Wolfhound or the Scottish Deerhound?
- Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.