It is my pleasure in welcoming you to Ballyhara Irish Wolfhounds. As a Heritage Breeder, my website is a commemoration to one of the world's oldest canine hunters. From the mists of antiquity, this breed evolved as a Sighthound, also known as Gazehounds, and was designed for hunting and dispatching large game. As such, he is truly a unique breed but be forewarned; he is not ideal for every household, although the Irish Wolfhound has enjoyed a rare, very close bond with man.

Please, make certain you go to Contents on the navigation bar and review all the ample information available. Take your time and review this site thoroughly, as it provides honest, legitimate information about the Irish Wolfhound. Primarily, it is an educational platform rather than a marketing site. Pay particular attention to my Facts & Info page that includes ample amount of breed facts, but also advice and instruction. Most importantly, though, besides the significant and prominent breed requirements of acreage and fencing, take into account the typical and unexpected costs & expenses that come with owning this giant hound breed. Many owners, unfortunately, are unprepared for such financial eventualities. In truth; this is a breed whose size necessitates more exercise, nutrition, fencing, time, worry, patience, and potential medical bills than almost all other large and small breeds.

I had been captivated with Wolfhounds since 1984 when I acquired my first. My relationship with the breed has been my entire adult life, and so we have grown together. My hounds have taught me precious lessons over all these years, including my son who learned to walk while holding onto these noble creatures. These hounds have illustrated grace, patience, and forgiveness along with stoicism, all of which are rare, valuable traits. I have never been without several wolfhounds in my home as they are treasured companions, so much more than just “show” dogs. Our lives and fate are intertwined.

We welcome and receive numerous inquiries regarding the Irish Wolfhound breed, and I have very simple words of advice. You must find the right breed of dog for your lifestyle as this is paramount both to yours and the dog's well-being. Naturally, many people fall in love at first sight with Irish Wolfhounds and decide, there and then, they must have one! I empathize with these powerful emotions as I too fell in love with the breed in 1978. But I did not obtain my first until 1984. Having said this, I have a responsibility, and commitment to impart at every opportunity necessary factors all potential owners must consider before obtaining this breed.

“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened.”
― Anatole France

As a freelance journalist, I have written for The Canine Chronicle, the industry's largest color, all-breed magazine in the country for more than six years. All articles, except for "Women in Leadership Roles at the AKC", are published in the print version of the Canine Chronicle magazine. Digital versions are also available online at www.caninechronicle.com. Additionally, I have authored a number of short articles created for the Canine Chronicle website on various topics, some educational and some Op Ed. These are also listed for review.