Irish Terrier
Also known as Irish Terrier
- Height at the withers
- 43 to 46 cm
- Weight
- 11 to 13 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12 to 15 years
- Daily activity
- 90 minutes
- Origin
- Ireland
- FCI group
- 3 · Terriers
Who is it for?
Ideal for
- a family with children
- people bothered by dog hair (no breed is guaranteed allergy-free)
- watching over the house
Less suited to
- a first dog: it needs an experienced owner
- a home with cats
Overview
A medium-sized terrier with a distinctive fiery red wiry coat and a bold, spirited temperament. Known for its courage and loyalty, it is one of the oldest terrier breeds.
History and origins
One of the oldest terrier breeds, developed in County Cork, Ireland, as a versatile farm dog for hunting vermin and guarding. Its courage was proven during World War I, when it served as a messenger and sentry.
Health
Life expectancy is 12 to 15 years, and the breed is hardy. The most common health problems in the breed:
- Hereditary footpad hyperkeratosis
- Cystinuria (urinary stones)
- Cataracts
- Hip dysplasia
Choose a breeder who has the parents health-screened for this breed, and ask to see the results.
Coat and care
Medium-length, harsh coat. Low shedding, average coat care.
All ratings
Rated from 1 to 5, comparable across breeds. Green marks a strength for most households, orange something to plan for.
Lifestyle
- Energy
- High, 4 out of 5
- Apartment
- Possible, 3 out of 5
- Home alone
- A few hours, 3 out of 5
Family and sociability
- With children
- Good, 4 out of 5
- With other dogs
- Caution, 2 out of 5
- With cats
- Caution, 2 out of 5
- With strangers
- Polite, 3 out of 5
Training and temperament
- Ease of training
- Average, 3 out of 5
- For a first-time owner
- Poor fit, 2 out of 5
- Guarding instinct
- Strong, 4 out of 5
- Prey drive
- Strong, 4 out of 5
- Tendency to roam
- Moderate, 3 out of 5
Care and neighbors
- Coat care
- Average, 3 out of 5
- Shedding
- Low, 2 out of 5
- Drooling
- Never, 1 out of 5
- Barking
- Moderate, 3 out of 5
Climate and health
- Heat tolerance
- Average, 3 out of 5
- Cold tolerance
- Average, 3 out of 5
- Hardiness
- Good, 4 out of 5
In our lists
Irish Terrier FAQ
How big does the Irish Terrier get?
The Irish Terrier stands 43 to 46 cm at the withers and weighs 11 to 13 kg. It is a medium-sized dog.
Does the Irish Terrier shed a lot?
It sheds little and its coat needs average care. It is one of the breeds that shed very little and are often better tolerated by people with allergies, with no guarantee: spend time with the breed before you decide.
Can the Irish Terrier live in an apartment?
It can, as long as it gets real outings every day; a yard is still a plus.
How much exercise does the Irish Terrier need each day?
Allow about 90 minutes of activity a day: its energy is high. Add games and training exercises to keep its mind busy too.
Is the Irish Terrier good with children?
Yes, it gets along well with children who respect it. Never leave a young child alone with a dog, whatever the breed.
How long does the Irish Terrier live?
Life expectancy is 12 to 15 years, and the breed is hardy. The main health problems to watch for are hereditary footpad hyperkeratosis and cystinuria.
