IW Foundation Health Library:
Performance/Movement
Irish Wolfhounds achieve the double-suspension gallop, which means that in two phases of the gallop (contracted, with all legs pulled under the dog, and extended, with legs completely stretched out) the dog is airborne. Several sighthound characteristics are believe to contribute to this type of motion, especially a relatively long, flexible back and a good tuck-up. This gait is meant for speed, not endurance.
The trot is the gait used to evaluate movement in a show dog. In the Irish Wolfhound it should be an efficient, ground-covering stride that could be maintained for long periods of time following prey.
Movement irregularities often indicate structural problems and should be evaluated by a vet.
Further Reading
- Double-Suspension Gallop (YouTube video of Greyhound in slo-mo)
- Gait Analysis of the Dog
- Normal and Abnormal Gait
- A Guide to Understanding Dog Gait (with video)
- The Functional Saluki (fascinating article on form vs. function)
Links provided here provide Irish Wolfhound-specific, sighthound, and/or general canine information relevant to Irish Wolfhounds.
Disclaimer: The Irish Wolfhound Foundation provides the information on this website for the education of its readers. No information on this website should be used for veterinary medical purposes, diagnostically, therapeutically, or otherwise. Consult a veterinarian before attempting to medically treat your dog or changing your dog's medical treatment.
Note: Links to content outside iwfoundation.org may become inactive over time.