TK, I've thought about getting one often, but am concerned about their lifespan. It would be a shame to get a dog through puppyhood and get used to them as a regular member of the family, only to have them pass on after 6-9 years. Perhaps a Scottish Deerhound would provide the size and grace, but live maybe 10-12 years.
Posts: 20177 | Location: Very NW NJ up in the Mountains | Registered: 14 June 2009
well my thoughts on a dogs lifespan are that if they have a joyful and healthy life while their with you , and die of old age then its understandable . It not like they were taken from you too soon if that makes sense . My baby is a 65lb bull/boxer im not trying to replace him or anything like that . I would like to just get him a buddy and ive always been curious about this breed. Plus im part Irish .
Irish Wolfhounds are almost totally in the hands of dog show enthusiasts. There are few if any working dogs anymore. Do your homework...MANY show breeds have serious health/genetic problems that would/could not be tolerated in working dog circles
Study first...buy later.
Posts: 1319 | Location: MN and ND | Registered: 11 June 2008
My sister has had them for years, very large expensive dogs. They are great pets loving etc but they do not live very long. 6 to 8 years for a healthy one. Many are not, she has lost three at two to four years. As has been said, they are mostly now in the realm of dog show owners.
