Irish Terrier Overview

The Irish Terrier always prefers work over play if given the choice. It is infinitely playful and eager for adventure, but its exercise needs are manageable enough for a busy owner. An ideal hiking or jogging partner, this dog will easily adapt and participate in any outdoor activity. But in spite of its boisterous personality, this breed has only moderate needs to stay happy and healthy. A vigorous game of fetch or a brisk walk is all that is needed to keep this dog fit. Grooming can be a chore, however. Its coat needs to be brushed multiple times per week, and it needs to be trimmed and shaped four times annually. The dog’s distinct ear shape may not come naturally, meaning the owner may have to train them as their puppy grows. The Irish Terrier is an adventurous, bold, alert companion, whose ideal environment is one with boundless mental and physical stimulation.

Irish Terrier History

The Irish Terrier is one of the oldest terrier breeds in existence. It is on good authority that the breed originated as early as the 1700s, but its official birth is undocumented. The breed likely came from a combination of a now-extinct beige terrier and the Black and Tan. Like most terriers, this breed was used for ratting and hunting small game. But with longer legs and a longer body than other terriers, the breed may have also come from the Irish Wolfhound. The original Irish Terrier came in several color varieties, borrowing the grays, blacks and whites from its assumed ancestry. But the breed’s distinct red coat became the standard in the late 1800s, when dog shows were gaining popularity. The Irish Terrier was fashionable and relatively famous by this time; it was the fourth most popular dog breed in England by the 1890s. By the early 1930s, this breed was also immensely popular in the U.S. Like other terriers, this breed was used during World War I as a messenger and military police dog. But the breed’s popularity declined with little explanation, and today it is relatively rare.

Irish Terrier Character

Although it can behave well enough in a family environment, the Irish Terrier is best matched with an active adult. It is surprisingly well-behaved indoors, but it can easily become bored. Regular play sessions and personal attention is key to this dog’s happiness, and it prefers to keep the spotlight. Yet there are no serious complications with the Irish Terrier. It is a true terrier at heart, with an endearing personality that should be encouraged, not broken. Training may be difficult, but not for a lack of intelligence on the dog’s part. It prefers to play the day away, not spend it learning rules and tricks. The breed is reserved around strangers, which makes it an excellent watchdog. It can be aggressive around other dogs, so early socialization is important. This breed does well with children, but it may be too boisterous for toddlers. In spite of its shortcomings, the Irish Terrier is a relentlessly charming companion. It is a free spirit in every way, and it does best with owners who can appreciate this quality.

Irish Terrier Care

The Irish Terrier requires regular brushing with a stiff bristle brush to minimize shedding and remove dead hair. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary using a mild shampoo to preserve the integrity of the coat. The Irish Terrier is a relatively healthy breed although some are prone to hypothyroid conditions.

Irish Terrier Training

The Irish Terrier is quite intelligent but may be willful and difficult to housebreak. The crate training method is recommended. Intense early socialization and obedience are crucial for this breed. They do not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. Training the Irish Terrier must be done with firmness, fairness, consistency, respect, and commitment. They excel in hunting, retrieving, guarding and tracking as well as police and military work.

Irish Terrier Health

Common Health Issues for the Irish Terrier:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Irish Terrier:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Irish Terrier Resources