Irish Terrier Breed Description

Introduction

Also known as the Irish Red Terrier, these dogs were developed in the district around Cork, in southern Ireland. Irish Terriers are hot tempered, reckless and exceptionally courageous. They are animated, spirited, loyal and make good watchdogs. Intelligent and easy to train, these dogs can sometimes be willful. Now mostly companion dogs, in Ireland their superb hunting abilities are still put to good use. They are wonderful water dogs and fiery vermin killers. Regular grooming is required. They weigh 25 to 27 lbs. and stand 17 to 19" at the shoulders.

History

Originating in Ireland, the Irish Terrier is one of the oldest terrier dog breeds and are mainly assumed to be descendants of tan and black dog breeds of Ireland and Britain. The Irish Terrier has a very long, honorable history because it was one of the most loved dog breeds in the 19th century in the U.K. (especially in England and Ireland). The breed was popular among kings and painters because of its beautiful, unique coat, though originally it was used for hunting.

General Description

The Irish Terrier is red, racy and rectangular. Racy means the Irish Terrier appears powerful without having to be heavy with strong looking body features. Its rectangular shape and nose outline gives it a trademark that makes it appear different from other terrier breeds. The Irish Terrier has a long, graceful outline with the body and its legs are perfectly proportionate. This tall physical appearance displays strength, power, and speed. The Irish Terrier has a coat that is mostly golden red, wheaten or red wheaten, with at times a white patch on a small portion of the chest. The coat is dense and the outer part of the coat has a wiry and straight texture.

Temperament

This is one of the most courageous terrier dog breeds and though it may be bold, it is very friendly. The Irish Terrier is extremely playful and it can make a very good house pet since it is protective, assertive, loving, and has a nature that is always eager to explore new things. This breed is a very loyal and unafraid to offer protection to its family when they are in danger. However, the breed has a very hot temper and it tends to be aggressive to other dog breeds and small animals. Therefore, it does require some training for it to learn how to control its temper in public.

Health and Care

The Irish Terrier has a dense lean coat that rarely sheds and can be easily maintained by simply brushing or combing it at least once a week. It may be necessary to shape the dog’s coat two times in a year. Regular baths are also essential. Since the Irish Terrier is very active and playful, it will require daily exercise, but one has to keep a firm control to prevent it from attacking other people and other animals. The Irish Terrier can adapt to different climatic conditions and has a long healthy life. The only health complication the breed experiences is urinary stones.

Additional Information

Nicknamed the “daredevil”, the Irish Terrier is very intelligent, loyal, high-spirited and remarkably courageous. This combination made this dog very popular in the early part of the 20th century, when it was used as a messenger and as a guard dog during WWII

Colors

bright red, golden red, red wheaten, wheaten often black hair at birth

Living Area

Irish Terrier loves to run and hunt and play it does better in homes that have outdoor areas for it.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

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