ABC's of Irish Wolfhounds
Main Page
    * What is an Irish Wolfhound?

Choosing a breeder
& a puppy:

   * Picking a Puppy
    by Mel Mercer, DVM
   * Novice Owner
    by Christiana Hartenstein 
   * Socialization
   * Rules of Seven
   * Check list
   * Contracts  

Should you choose:
   * Should you choose an older hound (rehome or rescue) or a puppy?
     by Gayle Curtis

Puppy's First Night
     by Gayle Curtis

Health:
   Puppy
     * Exercise
     * Medical Conditions
       by Mel Mercer, DVM
     * Nutrition
       by Mel Mercer, DVM
     * Vaccinations
       by Mel Mercer, DVM

   Adult
     * Health Issues in Adult IWs
       by C. A. Krowzack, DVM

Conformation
       by A. I. Gottsch

Lure Coursing &
LGRA (racing)


Agility

Obedience

Therapy Dog Work
      by Jeanne Patterson

Puppy Tales:
a collection of stories of IW mischief

Resources:
    * a list of books,
    * Magazines
    * and web links

Find a person in your area for help and information

Photo Gallery:
   * Puppy
   * Adult
   * Veterans
   * Events
   * Lure/LGRA
   * Therapy Dog
   * Other Animals & People
   * Humor   
   * Seasonal
   * Mischief
   * Rehomed Hounds

FAQ

Puppy Check List
The following are questions that you should be asking any breeder offering IW puppies for sale. Try to contact and visit as many breeders as possible before making your choice.

1. Why did they pick this particular bloodline?

2. How was the decision made to breed a litter?

3. What was the reason for this particular litter?

4. What tests are performed on the parents of the litter?

5. Can you see both parents of the litter?

6. What tests are done on the puppies prior to placement in a new home?

7. Do these people vaccinate their hounds? If so, for what?

8. If the hounds are not vaccinated, how are they protected?

9. When do the pups receive their first vaccinations?

10. What kind of socialization of the puppies was provided?

11. Did they explain how to raise the pup so it can fulfill its potential?

12. What if you cannot keep the puppy for a reason?

13. Which health problems run in the lines?

14. How many litters are bred and how many puppies leave the kennel per year?

15. How are all the animals on the property kept?

16. What do you look for in a pedigree?

17. What type of diet do they feed their hounds?

18. Why do you have IWs?

19. How do these people feel about proper IW temperament?

20. What do these people expect of their puppy buyers and what kind of relationship do they prefer?

21. If a pup or older hound that they have placed finds itself homeless, what do these people do?

22. Did they make time to answer your question?

23. Do they ask you any questions?

24. Can you call them at any time for questions and help?

25. Does their puppy pack and bill of sale conform the rules of the AKC & IWCA (or the canine authority in your country)?

26. Is there a contract and does it protect buyer, seller and puppy?

27. Are you comfortable with this person?

28. Ask them for 3 separate words that describe an IW.

29. In what activities do they and their hounds participate?

The following are some questions that breeders should ask you. Beware of those that are just trying to get rid of a puppy without knowing about the home where it will live.

1. Where will this dog live and be exercised?

2. Who will be responsible for your Irish Wolfhound?

3. Does everone in the family want or agree to living with an Irish Wolfhound?

4. What makes the IW the right fit for your family and lifestyle?

5. What are your ideas in regard to raising your hound so he/she can fulfill his/her potential?

6. Please tell us about your previous experiences with dogs and the animals you currently own.

7. Would you agree to consult with us should a medical emergency happen to your dog?

8. How well are you prepared to meet your hound's needs should one of the following occur to you: New Baby / Divorce / Move / Loss of job?

9. What type of fencing? How much is fenced? Is the fencing attached to the house?

10. How long would the IW be left alone during the day?

11. Have you ever owned a giant before?

12. Does everyone in the family agree that getting a hound is a great idea?

13. Could you financially take care of the dog's expenses if extensive veterinary care were need?

14. How will your IW be cared for when you are away?

15. Will you take your puppy to obedience classes?

16. Is your veterinarian familiar with Irish Wolfhound health and anesthesia concerns?