A Detailed Comparison of the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd.

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Irish Wolfhound Versus King Shepherd: Introduction

Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd? Well, you have come to the right place. Because in this article, we will provide you with a detailed comparison of these two dog breeds to help you decide which of the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd better suits you.

We will provide you a detailed discussion and comparison of dog attributes such as intelligence, price, general health, friendliness, etc, for both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd.

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd is better suited for new dog owners, for owners with kids, for owners that live in apartments, for owners with dog allergies, etc.

Importantly, we did some analysis and calculation and we obtained a number that we call the Better-Pet Score™ for both the Irish Wolfhound and for the King Shepherd. The dog breed with the higher Better-Pet score is the `better` pet. We hope that these Better-Pet Scores will provide you with more insight into deciding which pet to get between the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd.

Our only goal here is to help you make a well-thought-out decision on your next long-term companion, be it the Irish Wolfhound or the King Shepherd.

Irish Wolfhound versus King Shepherd

Irish Wolfhound versus King Shepherd: Overview

Both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd are similar in size. The Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd are both giant-sized dogs.

Furthermore, the Irish Wolfhound belongs to the Hound Dogs group. Hound Dogs were bred to pursue and hunt warm-blooded animals. Hounds hunt by using their good sight or their good sense of smell. Dogs that belong to the Hound Group have strong prey drives and often will stop at nothing to catch what they are pursuing.

On the other hand, the King Shepherd belongs to the Hybrid Dogs group. Hybrid Dogs are the offspring of 2 or more known, but different, dog breeds.

Irish Wolfhound versus King Shepherd: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Irish Wolfhound to the King Shepherd based on different important factors such as Price, Health, Kid-friendliness, etc.

When a dog breed scores higher for a factor than the other dog breed, the box of the breed that scores higher is shaded green and the box of the breed that scores lower is shaded red. When there is no difference between the breeds for a particular factor then the box is shaded gray for both pets. Also, when the factor is not important in picking a pet, or when the factor cannot be compared between two pets, the box for the factor is shaded gray for both pets

Most of the factors in the table for each dog breed are ranked on a scale of 1 to 5. “1” means “worst”, and “5” means “best”.

However, some factors such as “Price”, “Average Lifespan”, etc. cannot be on a scale of 1 to 5, so they are not on a scale of 1 to 5 in the comparison table.

Later in this article, we will further explain each factor as it applies to the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd

Factor Irish Wolfhound King Shepherd
Adapts Well To Apartment Living 1/5 4/5
Does NOT Drool 5/5 2/5
General Health 1/5 3/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl 5/5 4/5
Weight 115 to 180 pounds 75 to 150 pounds
Good For Novice Owners 2/5 2/5
Tolerates Being Alone 2/5 2/5
Tolerates Hot Weather 2/5 4/5
NOT Rambunctious 4/5 3/5
Calmness/ Low Vigor 4/5 3/5
Easygoing 3/5 2/5
Does NOT Shed 3/5 2/5
Easy To Groom 3/5 4/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight 3/5 2/5
Easy To Train 3/5 4/5
Does NOT chew on things 3/5 3/5
Tendency NOT to Wander 3/5 3/5
Height 32 to 35 inches tall at the shoulder 25 to 31 inches
Tolerates Cold Weather 4/5 5/5
Intelligence 4/5 5/5
Minimal Exercise Needs 2/5 2/5
Potential For Playfulness 4/5 4/5
Affectionate With Family 5/5 4/5
Kid-Friendly 5/5 4/5
Dog Friendly 5/5 5/5
Friendly Toward Strangers 5/5 4/5
Low Prey Drive 1/5 4/5
Life Span 6 to 8 years 10 to 11 years
Average Lifespan 7.0 years 10.5 years
Average Price $1930 $1560
Price Range $1500 – $2400 $700 – $2500
Temperament Score 90.1 percent 100.0 percent
Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests
  • Cardiac Evaluation
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Eye Examination
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Serum Bile Acid Test
  • No Data

    Next, we added the scores of the factors that can be added together for the Irish Wolfhound in the table (that is, `Ease of Grooming` score + `General Health` score + `Calmness` score + …etc) and we compared it to the corresponding total score for the King Shepherd. We call these total scores the Better-Pet Scores, as we mentioned earlier. We called this score the Better-Pet score because the better dog breed will have a higher score. This is because the pet will the higher score will have minimal needs and be easier to have as a pet.

    The Better-Pet score for the Irish Wolfhound is 82 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the King Shepherd is 84 out of 125.

    Based on their Better-Pet scores, the King Shepherd is a better pet than the Irish Wolfhound. So, you should get the King Shepherd!

    Although we have done our best to analyze these two dog breeds in a very unbiased way, however, we will like to let you know that there are some dog attributes that cannot be assigned a number for comparison. We cannot put a number on how cute a dog breed is, for example. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

    Also, the dog breed that best suits you will depend on your peculiar lifestyle, your taste, and your priorities, which we do not know. So, for you to decide on which breed is right for you, read through the rest of the article to further understand both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd so that you can make your own well-informed decision on which pet to get.

    The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd

    Below is a list of where the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd are most different:

  • Irish Wolfhounds do not adapt well to apartment living. However, King Shepherds adapt well to apartment living.
  • Irish Wolfhounds do not have the tendency to drool. However, King Shepherds have a very high tendency to drool.
  • Irish Wolfhounds have a high prey drive. They do not get along well with other pets. However, King Shepherds have a very low prey drive. This means they get along well with other pets.
  • The Similarities Between the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd

    The Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd are very similar in certain aspects. Below is the list of where the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd are most similar:

  • Both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd are not very vocal. They have very low tendency to bark and howl.
  • Both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd are not the best dogs for new dog owners.
  • Both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd do not like to be left alone.
  • Both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd have low energy levels. They do not require a lot exercise time.
  • Both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd do the things they do with very low vigor. They are not forceful.
  • Both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd can tolerate cold weather.
  • Both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd are highly intelligent.
  • Both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd require a lot of exercise. They are good for owners who like to exercise.
  • Both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd are very playful.
  • Both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
  • Both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.
  • Both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd get along well with other dogs.
  • Both the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd are very friendly towards strangers.
  • Size (Weight and Height) of Irish Wolfhound versus King Shepherd

    Now, let us discuss the difference in size between the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd.

    Irish Wolfhounds weigh 115 to 180 pounds when fully grown. Irish Wolfhounds are 32 to 35 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.

    On the other hand, King Shepherds weigh 75 to 150 pounds when fully grown. King Shepherds are 25 to 31 inches when fully grown.

    Lifespan of Irish Wolfhound versus King Shepherd

    The lifespan of Irish Wolfhounds is between 6 to 8 years. The average lifespan of Irish Wolfhounds is 7.0 years.

    The lifespan of King Shepherds is between 10 to 11 years . The average lifespan of King Shepherds is 10.5 years.

    King Shepherds live longer than Irish Wolfhounds.

    Temperament of the Irish Wolfhound Versus the King Shepherd

    The King Shepherd has a better temperament than the Irish Wolfhound.

    This is because the temperament score for the King Shepherd is 100.0 percent while the temperament score for the Irish Wolfhound is 90.1 percent, according to the American Temperament Test Society (ATTS).

    The American Temperament Test Society (ATTS) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide fair and objective evaluations of the temperaments of dog breeds.

    Dog breeds with low temperament scores tend to show unprovoked aggression, they easily panic without quickly recovering from the panic, and they tend to avoid people. However, dog breeds with high temperament scores are not aggressive and are not shy. Also, these dogs are generally friendly and are protective of their owners.

    The average temperament score across all dog breeds (over 250 breeds) is 83.7 percent.

    With its temperament score of 90.1 percent, the Irish Wolfhound has an above-average temperament compared to other dog breeds.

    With its temperament score of 100.0 percent, the King Shepherd has an above-average temperament compared to other dog breeds.

    The ATTS obtained the temperament scores of the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd by measuring the temperaments of 101 Irish Wolfhounds and 1 King Shepherds.

    Price of Irish Wolfhound versus Price of King Shepherd

    The average price of the Irish Wolfhound puppy is $1930. The price of the Irish Wolfhound typically ranges from $1500 – $2400. However, the price of a Irish Wolfhound can be as low as $720 and as high as $4000. We obtained this price information by reviewing the prices of 91 Irish Wolfhound puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The average price of the King Shepherd puppy is $1560. The price of the King Shepherd typically ranges from $700 – $2500. However, the price of the King Shepherd can be as low as $150 and as high as $3000. We obtained this price information by collecting and reviewing the prices of 34 King Shepherd puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The Irish Wolfhound is more expensive than the King Shepherd.

    Irish Wolfhound King Shepherd
    Average Price $1930 $1560
    Price Range $1500 to $2400 $700 to $2500

    The charts below show the price distribution for the Irish Wolfhound and King Shepherd. For different price points, the charts show how many Irish Wolfhound puppies or how many King Shepherd puppies are listed for sale at those price points.

    A breakdown of the prices of Irish Wolfhounds. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Irish Wolfhounds. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of King Shepherds

    A breakdown of the prices of King Shepherds

    Note that a lot of factors determine how much you can expect to pay for the Irish Wolfhound puppy or the King Shepherd puppy. This includes if health screening tests have been performed on the puppy, if the puppy is from a famous pedigree, the US State where the puppy is bred, etc.

    Nevertheless, when looking to buy a puppy, look at buying a puppy only from well-established breeders that breed puppies primarily for the love of dogs, and secondarily for profit. Do not buy a puppy from a puppy mill. Puppy mills mass-produce puppies in bad living conditions for maximum profit.

    You may also consider adopting a dog instead of buying a dog.

    Tolerates Being Alone: Irish Wolfhound versus King Shepherd

    Irish Wolfhounds do not like to be left alone.

    King Shepherds do not like to be left alone.

    Do Irish Wolfhounds shed more than King Shepherds?

    Irish Wolfhounds shed moderately.

    King Shepherds shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.

    Which one drools more, the Irish Wolfhound or the King Shepherd

    Irish Wolfhounds do have a very low tendency to drool.

    King Shepherds have a very high tendency to drool.

    Which is Easier to Groom, the Irish Wolfhound or the King Shepherd?

    Irish Wolfhounds are moderately easy to groom.

    King Shepherds are very easy to groom.

    Does the Irish Wolfhound Have a Higher Prey Drive than the King Shepherd?

    Irish Wolfhounds have a high prey drive. They have the tendency to chase after smaller animals and pets. They do not get along well with other pets.

    King Shepherds have a very low prey drive. This means they get won`t chase after smaller pets. They tend to get along well with other pets.

    Do Irish Wolfhounds Bark and Howl? What about King Shepherds?

    Irish Wolfhounds are not very vocal. They do not tend to bark and howl.

    King Shepherds are not very vocal. They do not tend to bark and howl.

    Can Irish Wolfhounds Tolerate Cold Weather? And can King Shepherds Tolerate Cold Weather?

    Irish Wolfhounds can very well tolerate cold weather.

    King Shepherds can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Wanderlust Potential: Irish Wolfhound vs. King Shepherd

    Irish Wolfhounds have a moderate tendency to wander. This means that they sometimes get distracted by other animals or objects.

    King Shepherds have a moderate tendency to wander. This means that they sometimes get distracted by other animals or objects.

    Can Irish Wolfhounds Tolerate Hot Weather? Can King Shepherds Tolerate Hot Weather?

    Irish Wolfhounds cannot tolerate hot weather. They are not suited for hot environments.

    King Shepherds can tolerate hot weather.

    Which Dog Breed is more Dog-Friendly, the Irish Wolfhound or the King Shepherd?

    Irish Wolfhounds get along very well with other dogs.

    King Shepherds get along very well with other dogs.

    Are Irish Wolfhounds good family dogs? What about King Shepherds?

    Irish Wolfhounds are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    King Shepherds are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    How Kid-friendly are Irish Wolfhounds and King Shepherds?

    Irish Wolfhounds get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    King Shepherds get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Is the Irish Wolfhound Easier to Train than the King Shepherd?

    Irish Wolfhounds are fairly easy to train.

    King Shepherds are very easy to train.

    Is the Irish Wolfhound Better for Apartment Owners than the King Shepherd?

    Irish Wolfhounds do not adapt well to apartment living.

    King Shepherds adapt very well to apartment living.

    Which is Better for New Dog Owners, the Irish Wolfhound or the King Shepherd?

    Irish Wolfhounds are not the best dogs for new dog owners.

    King Shepherds are not the best dogs for new dog owners.

    Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Irish Wolfhound

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Irish Wolfhound that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.

    We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Irish Wolfhound:

  • Bracco Italiano (74 percent match with Irish Wolfhound). Here is our comparison of the King Shepherd vs Bracco Italiano.
  • Cavapoo (72 percent match with Irish Wolfhound). Here is our comparison of the King Shepherd vs Cavapoo.
  • Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the King Shepherd

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the King Shepherd that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.

    We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the King Shepherd:

  • Chinook (75 percent match with King Shepherd). Here is our comparison of the Irish Wolfhound vs Chinook.
  • Shiloh Shepherd (75 percent match with King Shepherd). Here is our comparison of the Irish Wolfhound vs Shiloh Shepherd.
  • Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You

    You may also be interested in how the Irish Wolfhound and how the King Shepherd compares to other breeds. So, see below the comparison of the Irish Wolfhound and of the King Shepherd to other breeds:

    Irish Wolfhound Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Irish Wolfhound versus German Shepherd Dog     Irish Wolfhound versus Italian Greyhound     Irish Wolfhound versus Labrador Retriever     Irish Wolfhound versus Toy Fox Terrier     Irish Wolfhound versus Shiranian     Irish Wolfhound versus Bearded Collie     Irish Wolfhound versus Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen     Irish Wolfhound versus English Toy Spaniel     Irish Wolfhound versus Weimaraner     Irish Wolfhound versus Caucasian Shepherd Dog     Irish Wolfhound versus Pomeranian     Irish Wolfhound versus Keeshond     Irish Wolfhound versus Greyhound     Irish Wolfhound versus West Highland White Terrier     Irish Wolfhound versus American Eskimo Dog     Irish Wolfhound versus Kuvasz     Irish Wolfhound versus American Bulldog     Irish Wolfhound versus Coton de Tulear     Irish Wolfhound versus Entlebucher Mountain Dog     Irish Wolfhound versus Glen of Imaal Terrier     Irish Wolfhound versus Greyhound     Irish Wolfhound versus Bedlington Terrier     Irish Wolfhound versus Bergamasco Sheepdog     Irish Wolfhound versus Weimaraner     Irish Wolfhound versus Kishu Ken     

    King Shepherd Versus Other Dog Breeds

    King Shepherd versus Portuguese Water Dog     King Shepherd versus Anatolian Shepherd Dog     King Shepherd versus Cardigan Welsh Corgi     King Shepherd versus Icelandic Sheepdog     King Shepherd versus Briard     King Shepherd versus Toy Poodle     King Shepherd versus Icelandic Sheepdog     King Shepherd versus Black and Tan Coonhound     King Shepherd versus Redbone Coonhound     King Shepherd versus Curly-Coated Retriever     King Shepherd versus Norwegian Lundehund     King Shepherd versus Westiepoo     King Shepherd versus English Cocker Spaniel     King Shepherd versus Mastiff     King Shepherd versus Gordon Setter     King Shepherd versus Morkie     King Shepherd versus Havanese     King Shepherd versus Curly-Coated Retriever     King Shepherd versus Greater Swiss Mountain Dog     King Shepherd versus Karelian Bear Dog     King Shepherd versus Dogue de Bordeaux     King Shepherd versus Pembroke Welsh Corgi     King Shepherd versus Newfoundland     King Shepherd versus Bernedoodle     King Shepherd versus Aussiedoodle     

    Conclusion: Irish Wolfhound versus King Shepherd. Which One is a Better Pet?

    In summary, there is nothing like a better dog breed or a worse dog breed. The important question to ask is which dog breed better matches your interests and lifestyle. We hope our discussion above will help you in deciding which dog breed between the Irish Wolfhound and the King Shepherd better suits you and your family.