Irish Wolfhounds are strong, loyal companion dogs whose size and behavior can make them a special challenge to care for. While they may exude strength, as their owners we need to be vigilant about what they eat–because certain foods can wreak havoc on their health or even worse.
So if you’re the proud owner of an Irish Wolfhound (or planning to become one), it’s important that you know which items should never cross your pup’s lips. Here is a comprehensive list of all the non-edible foods your beloved wolfhound must avoid at all costs!
- Chocolate – this can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death in the breed
- Grapes & raisins – these can lead to kidney failure or even death.
- Onions & garlic – both of these can cause anemia in Irish Wolfhounds.
- Alcohol – just as with humans, this should be avoided at all costs.
- Bones & rawhide – these can choke or injure your pet if ingested.
- Sugary & fatty foods – while it may be tempting to give your pup a treat, these can be unhealthy and should be avoided.
What are Irish Wolfhounds predisposed to?
Irish Wolfhounds are a majestic and ancient breed of dogs, but unfortunately, their size, strength, and intelligence come with a few drawbacks. They are prone to certain health issues like bloat, hip dysplasia, osteosarcoma, and cardiomyopathy. Although these issues can affect any breed of dog, it’s especially important with Irish Wolfhounds since they have an average lifespan that is quite short.
Additionally, although they are very loyal and gentle with their humans, they can sometimes display aggression towards other animals if not properly socialized as puppies. Owners should make sure to give them plenty of exercises and mental stimulation to keep them content – even so, they may still suffer from separation anxiety when parted from their humans. Generally speaking though, they make wonderful family pets!
What are the signs of bloat in an Irish Wolfhound?
Irish Wolfhounds are a majestic breed of dog and it’s important to know the signs of bloat, as this can be a life-threatening condition for them. Some common symptoms include an enlarged abdomen, restlessness or an inability to settle down, panting heavily, and drooling excessively.
The dog may act distressed or in pain, or swell up suddenly. You will likely also notice that the dog’s stomach is hard when you touch it and its gums may become paler than usual. If your Irish Wolfhound shows any of these signs, contact your vet immediately.
What are Irish Wolfhounds prone to?
Irish Wolfhounds are gorgeous working dogs with fantastic personalities, but they do tend to be prone to a few medical issues. Arthritis, for instance, is one issue these larger breeds can deal with later in life – if you own an Irish Wolfhound, make sure to schedule regular checkups and talk to your vet about helping your dog manage the pain and discomfort that may come with it.
Additionally, as some of the tallest breeds in the world, bloat or gastric torsion can also be an issue for these dogs; significant care should be taken when exercising them before or after eating, and sticking to a moderate diet can go a long way here. All in all, Irish Wolfhounds are wonderful companions and require love and attention just like any other breed – though it’s important to be mindful of their size and specific needs.
How do I keep my Irish Wolfhound healthy?
Keeping an Irish Wolfhound healthy can be a challenge, as it is renowned for its energy and size. The best way to ensure your furry friend is in good shape is to invest time in regular exercise and nutrition.
Exercise should include things like long walks, swimming, or outdoor playtime to keep them from becoming bored. When it comes to nutrition, make sure you are providing quality food that meets their nutritional needs. An occasional treat won’t hurt either! It’s also important to provide them with mental stimulation such as puzzle toys or training sessions to reduce stress and eliminate boredom.
Last but not least, it’s important to bring them for regular checkups and other health care procedures such as vaccinations when needed. With these simple steps, your four-legged companion will remain happy and healthy for years to come!
Conclusion: Foods Your Irish Wolfhound Should Never Eat
Taking care of an Irish Wolfhound is truly a labor of love. While these gentle giants may look intimidating, they are surprisingly sensitive and need the very best nutrition to remain healthy and happy. Caregivers should strictly avoid feeding their Irish Wolfhound any human foods like grapes, garlic, onions, and chocolate because even small amounts can be toxic for them.
Additionally, it’s important to always research any new food you’re considering before giving it to your furry friend. With a little extra effort, you’ll be able to ensure your beloved pup has the best diet possible and a long, healthy life!
As with anything in life worth doing, taking care of an Irish Wolfhound requires dedication and commitment – but it’s truly a privilege worth having! Whether you’re training them to fetch making sure they get plenty of exercise or playing tug-of-war with your pup on lazy afternoons at home – this breed will give back so many memories to last a lifetime.
