As one of the tallest breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, the Irish Wolfhound is a gentle giant with unique nutritional needs to support its large size and high activity levels. Choosing the right dog food for to feed your irish wolfhound for one is crucial for the health and longevity of this magnificent hound. In this article, we’ll review the top 5 best dog foods for Irish Wolfhounds based on ingredients, nutrient balance, and suitability for the breed’s size and age. We’ll also answer frequently asked questions about feeding an Irish Wolfhound.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free Adult Dry Dog Food
- MORE CHICKEN IS COMING: An evolution of your dog’s formula with more chicken than ever, plus wholesome grains
- PACKED WITH REAL CHICKEN: A recipe made to satisfy your dog’s natural love for meat, this high protein dog food features real chicken to help build...
- HEALTHY INGREDIENTS: BLUE Wilderness grain free dog food, made with healthy carbohydrates including sweet potatoes and peas, helps fuel your adult...
Blue Buffalo’s Wilderness line features high-quality proteins and limited carbohydrates to suit the Irish Wolfhound’s active lifestyle. With 30% protein from deboned chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, and fish meal, this formula provides lean muscle support without unnecessary fat.
It contains omega fatty acids and glucosamine to nourish the skin and joints, important for a rapidly growing giant breed. Antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies like carrots, cranberries, and spinach promote immune health. There are also probiotics to aid digestion. With no corn, wheat, or soy, this grain-free formula eliminates common allergens food allergies. The larger kibble size and crunchy texture help clean teeth and satisfy chewing urges. The calorie count provides sufficient energy for young, active Irish Wolfhounds but avoids overfeeding adult dogs. Some owners complain that the food has a strong fishy odor. There are also isolated reports of digestive upset.
Overall, most Irish Wolfhound dog owners would rate this formula highly for quality ingredients, palatability, and good stool quality. It’s an excellent choice senior food and for the breed.
Merrick Grain Free Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
- Merrick Grain Free Premium Large Breed Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken And Sweet Potato Recipe. Wholesome And Natural With Added Vitamins And Minerals...
- Real deboned chicken is always the first ingredient in this premium grain free kibble for large dogs, made with real food ingredients to deliver...
- Gluten free dog food features a holistic blend of 58% healthy fat ingredients to maintain lean muscle mass and energy levels, and 42% produce, fiber,...
Merrick’s grain-free recipe contains leading proteins like deboned chicken and chicken meal along healthy fats along with omega-rich salmon meal. At 30% crude protein, it nourishes large muscular breeds like the Irish Wolfhound without providing excess protein that strains the heart disease kidneys.
Glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega fatty acids support bone growth and joint health. Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables provide vitamins, minerals and immune protection. The formula is easily digestible, with guaranteed levels of probiotics. This raw whole food diet also contains no corn, wheat, soy, or artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. The large kibble size is tailored to big breeds. At 370 kcal/cup, the calorie count suits less active adult Irish Wolfhounds while avoiding excess weight gain.
Some owners report digestive upset, but most say their dogs do very well on this food. The main downside is the high cost of raw meat, but devotees feel the quality of fresh food is well worth the price for their treasured companions. It’s an excellent choice if it fits your budget.
Purina Pro Plan Giant Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
- Real beef is number 1 ingredient in this high protein dog food to meet the needs of highly active small dogs
- Small breed dog food features bite-sized crunchy kibble and tender, shredded pieces for delicious taste and texture
- Calcium, phosphorus and other minerals maintain strong bones and teeth
Purina Pro Plan’s Giant Breed formula provides complete, balanced nutrition tailored to the Irish Wolfhound. With glucosamine and EPA, an omega-3 fatty acid, it nourishes the skin, joints, and coat. Natural sources of prebiotics and probiotics promote digestive and the immune system and overall health too.
The primary protein source is chicken, with additional nutrition from egg. Whole grain corn and rice provide carbohydrate energy. A precise blend of vitamins, minerals and nutrients meets the unique nutritional demands of giant breeds. At 27% protein and 12% fat, this formula provides sufficient nutrition without promoting rapid growth that can stress developing bones and joints. The large kibble size and crunchy texture promote dental health. It also contains calcium and phosphorus at safe ratios for giant breed puppies.
Some owners feel this food has too much grain, while others dislike the soybean meal. However, most Irish Wolfhound owners rate it highly for quality, digestibility, stool quality, palatability and value. It’s a great choice for owners seeking an affordable premium diet.
Holistic Select Giant & Large Breed Puppy Health Dry Dog Food
- DIGESTIVE HEALTH: Optimal levels of protein plus prebiotics and probiotics, digestive enzymes, and dietary fiber in this dog food enhance digestion...
- HEALTHY SKIN AND COAT: Omega 3 fatty acids from salmon oil and flaxseed to support healthy skin and coat
- WHOLE BODY HEALTH: Supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics and taurine for a healthy heart
Holistic Select’s puppy formula provides complete nutrition tailored to the developing Irish Wolfhound. Digestive enzymes and prebiotics aid food processing and nutrient absorption. The formula includes glucosamine, probiotics, and omega fatty acids to support bone, joint, skin and coat health.
With quality chicken meal as the primary protein source, this formula promotes steady muscle growth rather than rapid weight gain that stresses developing bones. Whole grains like brown rice and oatmeal provide long-lasting energy for an active lifestyle. There are also antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables. The careful balance of protein, fat and carbs supplies ideal nutrition without overfeeding. This supports a slow, steady growth rate to match the Wolfhound’s long bone growth timeline. The large kibble size is easy to chew while helping clean teeth.
Some owners feel this formula has too much grain. There are also a few reports of digestive upset. However, most say their Wolfhound puppies do very well on this raw dog food. It provides complete nutrition tailored to the developing giant breed.
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- Taste of the Wild High Prairie with ROASTED BISON and VENISON dry dog food; REAL MEAT is the #1 ingredient; high-protein (32%) to help support bones,...
- Nutrient-rich and provides the energy to thrive; vitamins and minerals from FRUITS and SUPERFOODS; omega fatty acids for healthy SKIN and COAT
- Each serving includes species-specific K9 Strain PROPRIETARY PROBIOTICS - plus antioxidants and prebiotics - to help support healthy digestion, IMMUNE...
Taste of the Wild’s High Prairie formula features bison and venison as lean protein sources reminiscent of the Irish Wolfhound’s ancestral diet. Protein-rich egg, ocean fish meal, and lamb meal provide amino acids for muscle development.This grain-free formula includes nutritious fruits and vegetables that provide natural sources for key vitamins and minerals. It’s fortified with supplements to ensure a balanced diet and nutrition. High protein and fat levels provide sufficient energy for a large active breed like the Wolfhound.
Probiotics support the digestive system and immune function. Omega fatty acids nourish the skin and coat. Glucosamine and chondroitin support joint health and mobility. Antioxidants fight cell damage from exercise stress. There are no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Some owners feel this food has too much pea fiber that may block nutrient absorption. There are also rare reports of digestive issues and upset. However, most say their Wolfhounds do very well on this formula. It provides a nutritious ancestral diet they thrive on.
Irish Wolfhound Dietary Requirements
The Irish Wolfhound is one of the tallest dog breeds, with males standing at least 32 inches at the shoulder. Adult males typically weigh 120-180 pounds while females weigh 105-140 pounds. This giant sighthound has unique nutritional needs to support its large size and high activity levels.
Protein
Wolfhounds require high-quality protein sources to build strong muscles without unnecessary fat. Look for formulas with 25-30% protein from meat, poultry, fish and eggs. Avoid plant-based proteins like corn and wheat. Excess protein is excreted, so there’s no need to overdo it.
Calcium and Phosphorus
Proper calcium and phosphorus levels are crucial, especially for rapidly growing puppies. Too much calcium stresses developing bones and joints. Look for a ratio close to 1:1 calcium to phosphorus. Adult maintenance formulas are ideal. Avoid supplements.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin
These compounds support joint health and mobility. They are especially important for large, active breeds prone to orthopedic issues. Look for them in both puppy and adult formulas.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3s nourish the skin, coat and joints. They also have anti-inflammatory effects. Look for DHA and EPA from fish oil or flaxseed.
Antioxidants
Fruits, vegetables and herbs provide antioxidants to combat exercise-induced cell damage. Choose formulas with tomato, carrot, cranberry, blueberry, spinach and other superfoods.
Probiotics and Prebiotics
These support digestion and nutrient absorption. Look for guaranteed levels of live cultures. Digestive enzymes are also beneficial.
Carbohydrates
Some grain-free formulas replace carbs with peas and legumes. While trendy, high fiber levels may interfere with nutrient absorption. Quality whole grains like brown rice provide energy without compromising nutrition.
Feeding Technique
Split daily intake into multiple smaller meals. Slow gulpers should use raised feeders. Avoid exercise for 1 hour before and after eating to prevent deadly bloat.
Supplements
A high-quality commercial diet eliminates the need for supplementation. But omega-3s, glucosamine, probiotics or other supplements can provide additional support.
Consult your veterinarian.
Puppy Formulas
Choose a large breed puppy formula with appropriate protein and mineral levels. Feed until at least 18-24 months to support skeletal development.
Senior Formulas
Reduce calories while providing joint support. Increase fiber and antioxidants for digestive and immune health.
With appropriate nutrition tailored to their life stage, Irish Wolfhounds can thrive for years as magnificent yet gentle giants. Consult your breeder or veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I feed an Irish Wolfhound puppy?
Irish Wolfhound puppies have rapid growth rates, growing from around 5 pounds at 8 weeks to a healthy weight of 100 pounds or more in their first year. They should be fed puppy food formulated for large breeds until at least 18-24 months to support bone and muscle development.
Puppies have small, sensitive stomachs, so they need multiple small meals per day, around 3-4 cups total at 8-12 weeks, increasing to 6-8 cups daily at 4-7 months. Follow label guidelines based on projected adult weight, and monitor body condition, adjusting as needed.
What is the best dog food for senior Irish Wolfhounds?
Look for a formula with glucosamine, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants to nourish joints, coat health and immune function. Avoid excess protein and fat. A high quality diet for senior dogs that provides complete balanced nutrition in a highly digestible form is ideal.
How much food does an adult Irish Wolfhound need daily?
An adult Irish Wolfhound that weighs around 105-140 pounds typically needs 1500-2500 calories daily. Active dogs and nursing bitches have higher needs. Follow label feeding guidelines based on weight and activity level. Split the daily ration into at least two meals to avoid bloat risk.
Should I give my Irish Wolfhound supplements?
Quality commercial diets designed for giant breeds already provide balanced nutrition when fed according to label guidelines. However, many owners provide supplemental glucosamine, omega fatty acids, probiotics or other supplements recommended by their veterinarian to further support joint, skin, coat or digestive health.
What human foods can Irish Wolfhounds eat?
Lean cooked meats, eggs, yogurt, cottage cheese, fruits and cooked vegetables can be fed in moderation as treats. Avoid excess fat, salt and sugary foods. Never feed cooked bones, onion, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, caffeine products or alcohol as these can be toxic. Introduce new foods gradually.