Large, extremely tall, muscular dogs covered in shaggy, wiry coats. The head is long and narrow and covered in wiry hair. The eyes are large and set close giving them a distinct look. The ears are small, folded and The legs are long and powerful and the tail is thin, covered in wiry hair and carried low.
Grey, brindle, red, black, pure white or fawn
They are gentle and calm. They like to lie around as well as run in the back yard. A larger yard would be better suited for these dogs. They are reserved around strangers and like to cuddle with their family.
Were bred in Ireland to hunt wolves and giant elk. Made wolves extinct in Ireland. The breed is very old possibly beginning in 3500 B.C. and was mentioned by Julius Caesar in The Gallic Wars.
Tumors, heart disease, hip dysplasia, seizures and eye problems. They are prone to bloating.