Irish Wolfhound.

Irish Wolfhound. Irish Wolfhound, breed of hunting dog, of the hound variety, the tallest dog known. The Irish wolfhound originated in Ireland in remote antiquity. It was known in Rome in the 4th century AD, and early Celtic literature contains many stories concerning Celtic heroes and their wolfhounds, which were used principally to hunt wolf and elk. The breed became almost extinct in Ireland and Europe in the middle of the 19th century, but was then rehabilitated by the Scottish dog breeder Captain George A. Graham. Today the Irish wolfhound is prized as a pet because of its loyalty and intelligence. The Irish wolfhound is about 71 to 94 cm (about 28 to 37 in) high at the shoulder and weighs up to about 61 kg (about 135 lb). The dog has a long head and a long muzzle; small ears; dark eyes; a very deep chest; muscular shoulders; a rough, hard coat that is especially wiry over the eyes and the underjaw; and a long, slightly curved tail. The color may be gray, brindle, fawn, pure white, black, or red. Microsoft ® Encarta ® 2009. © 1993-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.