Irish Terrier

Also called Irish Red Terrier

  • Great with kids

The Irish Terrier is a medium-sized, energetic breed that is known for its intelligence, courage, and loyalty. This breed is native to Ireland, where it was originally used to hunt small game and vermin.

Weight
24–26 lb (11–12 kg)
Height at the shoulder
17–18 in (44–46 cm)
Life span
12–15 years
Exercise
About 60 minutes a day
Coat
Short, Wire
Origin
Ireland (19th century)

Traits

Family and friends

  • Children: Good with children
  • Other dogs: Wary of other dogs
  • Strangers: Polite with strangers

Home and activity

  • Energy: Energetic
  • Apartment living: Can manage in an apartment
  • Barking: Barks sometimes
  • Training: Fairly easy to train

Care

  • Grooming: Regular brushing
  • Shedding: Sheds a little
  • Drooling: Hardly drools

Temperament

Affectionate Alert Bold Fearless Loyal Spirited

Coat colours

Bright red, golden red, red wheaten and wheaten

Males and females

MeasureMalesFemales
Weight 26 lb (12 kg) 24 lb (11 kg)
Height 18 in (45–46 cm) 17–18 in (44–45 cm)

Recognized by

American Kennel Club (AKC), Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), The Kennel Club (UK) (KC) and United Kennel Club (UKC)


Caring for an Irish Terrier

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Veterinarians

Check-ups and vaccinations through its 12–15 years.

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Groomers

A groom every few months keeps its coat in good shape.

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Dog walkers

Needs about 60 minutes of exercise a day.

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Dog trainers

Can be stubborn: a trainer helps from the start.

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Breeds of a similar size

All medium breeds
An Airedale Terrier
Medium

Airedale Terrier

Terrier Group

  • Weight:40–51 lb (18–23 kg)
  • Life span:12–14 years
A Bull Terrier
Medium

Bull Terrier

Terrier Group

  • Weight:44–64 lb (20–29 kg)
  • Life span:12–15 years
A Kerry Blue Terrier
Medium

Kerry Blue Terrier

Terrier Group

  • Weight:29–40 lb (13–18 kg)
  • Life span:12–14 years

Sources

Breed details from The Dog API (opens in a new tab).