Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhound
VS
German Shepherd Dog
German Shepherd Dog

Irish Wolfhound vs German Shepherd Dog

Compare Irish Wolfhound and German Shepherd Dog side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Irish Wolfhound
German Shepherd Dog
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
71 – 90 cm
61 – 65 cm
Weight
40 – 69 kg
33 – 37 kg
Life expectancy
6 – 8 years
9 – 13 years
Child friendly
5/5
4/5
Energy level
3/5
4/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
3/5
4/5
Health
3/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
3/5
Shedding
3/5
3/5
Barking level
1/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
3/5
4/5
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Characteristics

Irish Wolfhound
Great with kids
Quiet
Giant
German Shepherd Dog
Great with kids
High energy
Protective
Easy to train
Large

Summary

About Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are giant, tall hounds with a strong yet graceful build and a rough, weather‑resistant coat. Calm, gentle and sensitive, they are low‑key indoors but need steady exercise and space. They have notable health risks and a relatively short lifespan, so careful breeding and care are vital.
About German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd Dog is a medium‑large, athletic working breed, highly intelligent and trainable. Loyal and naturally protective, it needs extensive daily mental and physical exercise. It has a double coat with notable shedding and is widely used in police, military, and search and rescue roles.

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