How Much Does an Irish Wolfhound Cost? (2024 Updated)

Considering their remarkable qualities, many prospective owners are curious about the price of an Irish Wolfhound puppy.

If you are considering getting an Irish Wolfhound as a pet, it’s important to understand the costs associated with owning them. Since these dogs are large, the expenses will put a dent in your pockets.

This article will answer all your Irish Wolfhound cost-related questions. Additionally, it will also touch on the factors influencing the prices, the best places to acquire an Irish Wolfhound puppy, money-saving tips, and more!

How Much Does an Irish Wolfhound Puppy Cost? 

The typical cost of an Irish Wolfhound puppy from reputable breeders ranges from $1,400 to $2,500. However, Irish Wolfhounds born from champion bloodlines or those of show quality cost significantly more, with some being sold for upwards of $3,500. 

Several factors influence this cost, such as the breeder’s reputation, demand, location, age, and gender of the Irish Wolfhound puppy.

Indeed, acquiring an Irish Wolfhound puppy from a reputable breeder is expensive. Nevertheless, reputable breeders can give you the assurance that the dog you’re getting is healthy and has been raised in a nurturing environment. 

With my extensive experience in breeding, I can vouch for how reputable breeders ensure the quality of the puppies they raise. Prior to breeding, they ensure that the parents are genetically tested so that hereditary issues are avoided.

Further, they also see to it that the pups are vaccinated on time and are closely monitored by the veterinarian.

Lower-cost Irish Wolfhound puppies may be available, but these dogs likely come from backyard breeders and puppy mills. These sources breed puppies primarily for profit, with little regard for the quality of their puppies.

While you might save substantially on the initial cost by getting from untrusted sources, you may end up spending more in the long run due to potential genetic issues resulting from poor breeding practices.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt an Irish Wolfhound From a Shelter? 

Adopting an Irish Wolfhound is a noble deed where you save and transform a rescue dog’s life. Usually, the adoption fee for an Irish Wolfhound is between $100 and $500. This fee helps support the animal shelter.

Animal welfare organizations often base their fees on the dog’s age. More often than not, Irish Wolfhound puppies are highly sought after; hence, they are sold at a higher price than their adult counterparts.

On the flip side, the fee significantly drops if you adopt a senior dog or those with special needs.

The amount you’re paying helps the organization cover expenses while caring for your Irish Wolfhound.

First-Time Expenses of Irish Wolfhound Ownership

After knowing how much an Irish Wolfhound puppy costs from a breeder and an animal shelter, determining the first-time expenses would be the next thing to do. 

Preparing for initial expenses will streamline your process of welcoming your new pet. As your Irish Wolfhound will require some time to settle into its new environment, it is important to ensure it has everything it needs.

Below are the usual first-year expenses associated with owning an Irish Wolfhound puppy:

• Food and Treats: An Irish Wolfhound leads an active lifestyle, which necessitates a balanced and nutritious diet suitable for large dogs. Other than the regular food, you should also invest in healthy dog treats, which may come in handy when training your pet. These items could set you back about $80 to $150.
• Bowls: Dog food and water bowls should be large enough to contain your Irish Wolfhound’s recommended food portions. They should be made of stainless steel to ensure easy cleaning and minimal bacterial build-up. You can usually find these at your local pet store for around $15 to $40.
• Toys: Your Irish Wolfhound puppy needs toys to stay mentally stimulated. Toys keep your dog from getting bored and prevent the onset of anxiety and destructive behaviors. When choosing a toy, ensure it’s size-appropriate, durable, and safe. Large toys can cost you $30 to $100. 
• Beds: The large Irish Wolfhound also needs a large, high-quality dog bed. This is where your dog spends most of its time, whether it’s getting a good night’s rest or taking a daytime nap. Choose a dog bed that provides comfort, is washable, and is long-lasting. Depending on your chosen brand, it may cost you anywhere from $50 to $300.
• Collars and Leashes: Collars and leashes are essential accessories used when training or walking your Irish Wolfhound. Ensure that the collar fits correctly and that the leash is sturdy. These items might cost you between $15 and $50.
• Crates and Carriers: Consider buying a crate large enough to accommodate tall breeds like the Irish Wolfhound. If crate-trained, your dog will retreat here to find relief from any environmental stress. A carrier is also essential for trips to the vet. Crates and carriers are sold at around $60 to $500.
• Grooming Essentials: The wiry coat of the Irish Wolfhound is surprisingly low-maintenance, yet it requires weekly grooming to prevent matting. This dog also needs regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing. All the tools you need for its grooming can be purchased as a kit at a price ranging between $50 and $250. 
• Initial Vet Visits: Regular monitoring of your Irish Wolfhound’s health by a licensed vet is critical. They may offer consultations or perform health tests to detect early signs of illnesses. Vet charges may vary depending on where you live. Prepare around $100 to $500 for initial vet check-ups.
• Initial Vaccine Shots: To protect your Irish Wolfhound puppy from common bacterial and viral infections, such as rabies and distemper, it must be current with its vaccinations. You may have to shell out around $50 to $300 for your dog’s initial vaccine shots. 
• Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications: Irish Wolfhound puppies purchased from breeders are usually already dewormed and tick and flea-treated before rehomed. If your dog has not received these treatments, your vet can conduct these procedures for $40 to $300.
• Neutering or Spaying: If your Irish Wolfhound puppy is sold under a spay or neuter contract, you must have it sterilized once it reaches the appropriate age of six months. These surgeries would typically cost around $50 to $500.
• Microchipping: Microchipping involves placing a tiny device under your Irish Wolfhound’s skin. This chip contains details about the dog and its owner. This procedure is helpful in case your puppy goes missing since microchips can quickly identify its owner and home. Microchipping can cost you between $40 and $60.
• Dog License: Dog licensing has heaps of benefits for you and your dog. For starters, it can serve as proof that you are the legitimate owner of your dog. Furthermore, licensing a dog is non-negotiable in some states in the country. This record of ownership can be renewed every few years, and the fees charged are around $10 to $20. 
• Other Essentials: You should also set aside around $30 to $80 for miscellaneous expenses associated with owning an Irish Wolfhound. This budget will cover items like potty training pads, poop bags, and vitamins and supplements.

Here’s the summary of the first-time expenses of owning an Irish Wolfhound:

The table above shows you need to spend $620 to $3,150 for the basic needs of your new Irish Wolfhound puppy. Take note the figures are only an estimate of how much your budget might be when owning a large dog. 

Having a rough estimate of the first-year costs of owning an Irish Wolfhound is beneficial to fully grasp the financial responsibilities of dog ownership.

On a related note, you can cut costs if you purchase your puppy from a breeder that offers freebies. Also, those who have owned a large dog might already have some items, like food and water bowls, collars, and crates. 

Watch this video to see just how massive and stunning the Irish Wolfhound is:

Annual Cost of Owning an Irish Wolfhound 

According to the prestigious American Kennel Club (AKC), an Irish Wolfhound’s life expectancy typically ranges from 6 to 8 years.

As an owner, one must pledge to provide these dogs with the best possible lifestyle to ensure they remain happy and healthy throughout their life.

There are recurring expenses that come with owning an Irish Wolfhound. You have to be familiar with its needs and create a financial plan to adequately satisfy its requirements. 

The table below shows the annual costs of owning an Irish Wolfhound:

Expect to spend approximately $2,850 to $6,250 per year, or $237 to $520 per month, when caring for an Irish Wolfhound. A significant portion of this budget is allocated toward your dog’s food and treats.

Pet insurance is also another substantial expense. However, purchasing one is a wise move for owners who need a financial safety net should their Irish Wolfhounds experience health conditions such as hip dysplasia and gastric torsion.

Additionally, routine veterinary check-ups are essential to maintain your dog’s health. For adult Irish Wolfhounds, these check-ups are typically conducted annually. 

All in all, these recurring expenses are pretty standard, especially for a large dog like the Irish Wolfhound. 

Other Potential Expenses to Consider 

Aside from the initial and annual costs associated with owning an Irish Wolfhound, there are other unforeseen expenses that pet owners like yourself might encounter at any stage in their journey.

Putting aside a special budget for any additional expenditures can help you maintain financial stability.

Here are the other potential expenses you might have to spend when owning an Irish Wolfhound:

• Pet Sitting: Irish Wolfhounds are sociable creatures that thrive best in the company of others. This means they shouldn’t be left alone for extended periods, as they might develop separation anxiety. Hiring a reliable pet sitter is a good idea if you’ll be away for a long period. Pet sitters typically charge $20 to $30 a day. 
• Pet Daycare: If you’re working all day with no one to care for your dog, taking your Irish Wolfhound to a pet daycare can be a smart choice. This is also an excellent place for your dog to improve its socialization skills by interacting with other dogs. These short-term canine boarding facilities usually charge from $35 to $50.
• Grooming Services: If you’re too busy to groom your Irish Wolfhound, taking it to a pet salon can be the most practical solution. Professional groomers will handle all essential grooming services, such as bathing, brushing, and nail trimming, which can cost you between $30 and $90. 
• Dog Training Classes: Enrolling your Irish Wolfhound in dog classes can foster good behavior. You can also work jointly with a professional dog trainer if you want your puppy to eventually participate in AKC-held events, like agility or obedience sporting events. The usual cost for each session ranges from $40 to $250. 
• Emergency Medical Costs: Irish Wolfhounds are generally robust dogs but can still be prone to certain health issues. If your dog ever suffers from a medical condition that requires surgery, having an emergency fund of about $1,000 to $5,000 for treatment can alleviate financial stress.

All of the expenses listed above are optional, excluding medical costs. It goes without saying that you must stay ahead of these potential expenses by setting aside a dedicated fund for your dog.

That way, should the need arise, your finances will already be set.

Best Places to Find Irish Wolfhound Puppies for Sale and Adoption

Despite being the tallest of all AKC dog breeds, the Irish Wolfhound is far from intimidating. Its remarkable qualities make it one of the most cherished family companions worldwide.

As a result, the demand for this impressive dog breed continues to rise over time. If you’re thinking of owning this breed, it’s recommended that you source one from a trustworthy breeder.

To help you in your search, here are some reputable sources where you may find Irish Wolfhound puppies for sale:

• AKC Marketplace – The AKC Marketplace is one of the trusted places where legitimate breeders advertise their Irish Wolfhound puppies. Each puppy from this marketplace comes with a detailed profile, including the breeder’s location, the asking price, and the tests performed on the dog. If you’re interested in puppies from champion lineages, this marketplace simplifies your search.
• Rysheron Irish Wolfhounds – Based in California, Rysheron Irish Wolfhounds is a breeder that consistently produces some of the finest Irish Wolfhound puppies in the state. Their dogs are bred to be healthy, behaviorally sound, and physically conform to the breed standards. They achieve these through their ethical breeding program, which ensures their dogs are free from congenital issues. 
• Brimstone Irish Wolfhound – Brimstone Irish Wolfhound is a breeder that started their passion for Irish Wolfhounds in 1990. They carefully select their dams and sires to produce quality puppies. Not only do they get their dogs regularly checked by the vet, but this breeder also ensures they get thoroughly socialized in preparation for their future homes. 

The breeders mentioned above have planned litters, implying they only occasionally have puppies for sale. If you missed the opportunity to get one of their Irish Wolfhound puppies, consider adoption.

Adopting an Irish Wolfhound means giving a dog a second chance at life, plus you’re making room for another rescue. 

Below are some of the animal rescue centers where you can adopt an Irish Wolfhound puppy:

• Great Lakes Irish Wolfhound Association – If you live in Illinois, consider visiting the Great Lakes Irish Wolfhound Association. This dog rescue takes in Irish Wolfhounds from unfortunate owners. Browse their gallery and see if any of their dogs align with your lifestyle and preferences. If you find one, reach out to them and fill out their application form,
• Irish Wolfhound Club of America – The Irish Wolfhound Club of America is a volunteer-run rescue that provides unwanted, abandoned, or homeless Irish Wolfhounds with new, permanent homes. They also make sure those under their care receive necessary health treatments, including spaying or neutering. If you’d like to bring home one of their Irish Wolfhounds, schedule an appointment with them.
• Potomac Valley Irish Wolfhound Club – The Potomac Valley Irish Wolfhound Club is a breed-specific rescue in Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. They accept all Wolfhounds of any age, whether you’re looking for a puppy, an adult, or a senior. Typically, their canines are sterilized, vaccinated, and treated for heartworms before rehoming.

If these sources don’t have any Irish Wolfhounds available, there are still other options you can explore. Local veterinarians, who have a wide network of breeders and Irish Wolfhound owners, might provide you with a referral.

You may also go directly to breeders in the area or fellow dog owners who might know of someone with Irish Wolfhound puppies available to sell. 

To maximize your search, you can join social media groups dedicated to the Irish Wolfhound breed and ask where puppies are available for sale or adoption. Just be sure to steer away from unethical breeders.

Money-Saving Tips for Irish Wolfhound Owners

Owning a large breed like the Irish Wolfhound, like most dogs, necessitates recurring expenses on its basic needs and upkeep. While it’s true that dog ownership requires investment, it doesn’t have to completely drain your pockets. 

With specific money-saving strategies, you can significantly reduce these costs.

Here’s a list of money-saving tips on how to be economical when owning an Irish Wolfhound:

• Make homemade treats. Your Irish Wolfhound’s treats can sometimes be expensive, depending on the brand you go for. Opting for homemade treats not only helps save money but also guarantees the healthiness of your dog’s snacks. 
• Groom your Irish Wolfhound at home. Regular visits to the pet salon with your Irish Wolfhound can get expensive due to professional groomers’ fees. You can save money by purchasing a comprehensive grooming kit and handling your dog’s maintenance at home. However, this may require some practice initially.
• Invest in high-quality dog items. You can prevent the need for frequent replacements by investing in durable toys, leashes, collars, dog beds, and crates. Only choose brands tested and proven by many dog owners to avoid repurchasing down the road.
• Invest in a pet insurance plan. Irish Wolfhounds could fall sick or need surgery at any time. Pet insurance plans can help cover a huge portion of the vet bill if they need treatment. Given that veterinary services in the United States are costly, investing in an insurance plan for your dog makes a lot of sense. 

Remember to always follow these practical tips to save money while owning an Irish Wolfhound. Although the amount you save from these financial strategies is initially insignificant, it will add up in the long run.

Every few bucks you set aside can accumulate over time and positively impact your finances. This leaves you more extra cash, which can be allocated to the other priority items your dog needs. 

Final Thoughts

Having an Irish Wolfhound means accepting financial responsibility. Once you’re committed to having this dog, your journey starts by paying the puppy price, the first-year expenses, and the annual expenses. 

If you’re prepared to welcome an Irish Wolfhound puppy, make sure you purchase it from a trusted breeder. This step can assure you that the puppy is free from genetic issues, which may necessitate costly treatment later on.

After bringing your new family member home, promote a healthy, active lifestyle, a nutritious diet, and consistent training. These are all essential in maintaining a good dynamic with your dog. 

Hopefully, this comprehensive guide has given you all the financial details you need when owning an Irish Wolfhound. Share your thoughts about the topic of Irish Wolfhound costs and expenses by leaving a comment below!