It's hard to believe but this highly regarded breed almost went extinct. Irish Wolfhounds were primarily used for hunting in the past so when the number of wolves and elk in Ireland decreased at one point, so did the demand for the breed. By 1800 the breed had thinned out, but Capt. George A. Graham was sure that there were still a few Irish Wolfhounds left in Ireland. In the mid-1800s, the captain made it his mission to find these remaining Wolfhounds and use them to revive the breed. Graham crossed the Irish Wolfhounds he found with Scottish Deerhounds to help revive the population.

Height isn't the only trait that makes this rare dog breed unique. Most dog breeds come in the same common variations of colors - but usually blue isn't one of them. Pure Irish wolfhounds come in many colors, from cream to black, but some end up as blue. To be technical blue in dogs isn't a color but a color paling effect which dilutes the color pigment of the coat, skin, and eyes - called 'blue dilute.' This trait used to be considered impermissible to the point that the affected puppies were put down at birth or as soon after as their color became obvious. Now it is known that this in no way affects the health of the dog. 

Irish Wolfhounds used to hunt large game such as wild boar and deer. With their large stature and skill, they make great hunters and are still even used to this day to herd sheep. One might think that their ability to attack animals would translate into a great guard dog, but you would be mistaken. This breed is not suspicious of strangers, nor are they aggressive towards them.

The earliest written record of an Irish Wolfhound is from 391 A.D., scribed in a letter from a Roman consul to his brother. The consul thanks his brother for his gift of “Irish dogs,” saying, “All Rome viewed them in wonder.” Apparently these “wolfdogs of Ireland” were often gifted to Roman consuls, as well as to kings of other European countries, to shahs of Persia, and other world leaders.

Most models must be tall and lean - so it makes sense that the Irish Wolfhound would make the best canine model of the breeds. These dogs are said to be very photogenic and good in front of the camera, which is why they are frequently used in fashion photography.