This dashing daredevil will set your heart aflame. The Irish Terrier has, perhaps, more spirit than sense sometimes, but that's just part of her charm. Like many redheads, this breed is brash, bold, and beautiful. (And, yes, a redhead wrote this. So?)
As you might have guessed from the name, this medium-sized and medium-energy breed is originally from Ireland. These dogs can grow to between 25-27 pounds and live an average of 13-15 years. Irish Terriers are recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Terrier group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | Ireland |
| Breed group | Terrier |
| Average lifespan | 10-15 years |
| Size | Small |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 113 |
| Family | Terrier |
| Date of origin | 1700s |
| Original function | Hunting fox |
| Today's function | Vermin hunting |
| Average size of male | Height: 18 Weight: 25 |
| Average size of female | Height: 18 Weight: 25 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Very playful |
| Affection level | Somewhat affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Shy |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Ease of training | Hard to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | High maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS AN IRISH TERRIER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
This is a dog who follows her own instincts and asks questions later. Irish Terriers are always up for adventure — they're inquisitive, intense, and uninhibited. They love their chosen people and are often very good with supervised children, but they have no patience for dogs or other pets in their domain. For the right family though, an Irish Terrier can be an entertaining and loyal companion.
WHAT IS IRISH TERRIER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
These dogs are active — very active. Irish Terriers are speedy and smart — they'll do best in a fenced-in play area. Irish Terriers make surprisingly polite house dogs when given enough opportunity for exercise.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN AN IRISH TERRIER?
This breed responds reasonably well to training. These dogs are intelligent and definitely have a sense of humor, so it's important to be patient and consistent with your pup. Their prey drive means no squirrel is safe and that your Irish Terrier should always be leashed if she's not playing in a safely fenced-in area. You'll want to discourage inappropriate barking early and often.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO IRISH TERRIERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
An Irish Terrier's short, wiry coat needs regular brushing and stripping or trimming to keep this dog looking her best. They're light, seasonal shedders.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO IRISH TERRIERS HAVE?
While most Irish Terriers are relatively healthy dogs, some can suffer from cancer or hardened, cracking footpads (hyperkeratosis).
