A little look at life together.
Getting to know the Irish Terrier
The Irish Terrier is a medium-sized, wire-coated terrier with a bold outlook and a distinctive red outline. Regular stripping or trimming belongs in the care plan despite the relatively short-looking coat.
An everyday routine
Make space for substantial daily activity and short learning sessions. A busy weekend cannot replace a dependable weekday routine.
Coat care to plan for
Coat care is a meaningful part of the weekly commitment. Agree on a manageable trim or coat-care method with an experienced groomer and keep up with maintenance between appointments.
Before deciding, meet the individual dog and ask about their history, handling preferences, and current routine. Breed tendencies are a starting point, not a promise about personality.
Irish Terrier questions
Do Irish Terriers shed?
Not much. The dense, wiry double coat sheds lightly. The work is in the upkeep instead, with weekly brushing plus regular stripping and trimming, and the outer coat is ideally hand-stripped, not clipped.
How big does a full-grown Irish Terrier get?
The breed stands about 18 inches at the shoulder, with males around 27 pounds and females around 25 pounds. It is a long-legged terrier, sturdy but lithe, with a slightly longer body than most of its terrier relatives.
How long do Irish Terriers live?
Life expectancy is 13 to 15 years, and the breed is generally healthy. It is worth asking breeders about two uncommon conditions, hyperkeratosis of the footpads and cystinuria. Your vet can answer questions about your own dog.
Are Irish Terriers good with children?
Yes, they are great with kids when raised with them. This is an affectionate dog that is loyal to its family and ready to guard the people it loves. As with any dog, supervise play and meet the individual dog first.
Do Irish Terriers get along with other dogs?
Often not easily, and it is worth knowing before you commit. The breed is low on getting along with other dogs and will not back down when another dog challenges it, though it gets on well with friendly people. Ask a breeder or rescue how a particular dog behaves around others.
How much exercise does an Irish Terrier need?
Regular, daily activity. A fenced yard is ideal, and without one the dog needs leashed walks several times a day. Obedience, agility, rally, earthdog and flyball are good outlets for the breed's energy and brains.
Are Irish Terriers easy to train?
They are clever and can be headstrong. This is a smart dog that wants to please but tends to be strong-willed and independent. Stubborn on the surface and sensitive underneath, the Irish does best with early, consistent training.
What were Irish Terriers bred for?
All-purpose farm work in rural Ireland. They were ratters, watchdogs, guardians and hunting companions, and they are top-tier watchdogs today. Irish Terriers also served as messengers and sentinels in the First World War.
